FORTY-TWO high school students from across the island have each received $175,000 to help with back-to-school expenses as Wata awarded more than $7 million in grants during ceremonies held in Kingston and Montego Bay last week.

The support was provided through the company’s Hydrate to Educate programme, which assists families with the cost of tuition, books, uniforms, transportation, and other school-related needs. Three students were selected from each of the 14 parishes.

Brittany Thwaites, brand manager for the Wata portfolio at Wisynco, said the initiative was created to ease financial pressures while celebrating students’ drive and promise.

“With Hydrate to Educate, we wanted to go beyond grades and exam results. These grants recognise students for their determination and potential, while giving families real, practical support as they prepare for September,” said Thwaites.

She emphasised that Wata’s Hydrate to Educate programme continues to reinforce the brand’s commitment to empowering Jamaica’s youth through educational initiatives.

“Education is one of the most powerful investments we can make in the future of Jamaica, and Wata is proud to play a part in helping students achieve their goals,” added Thwaites.

Parents, teachers, and community leaders attended the ceremonies, emphasising how timely the support is for families.

One recipient, Nashá Patterson of Hampton School, shared her appreciation:

“This support came at the right time. My mom has always done her best for me, and with the cost of transportation being so high since I live far from school, this grant really helps. I’m thankful for the assistance as I head into my final year of sixth form, because now I can focus fully on my studies,” said Patterson.