KINGSTON, Jamaica – Two fifth-form students from Kingston Technical High School (KTHS) emerged winners of Project STAR’s inaugural Business Pitch Competition recently, capturing the top prize with their innovative idea to improve digital access for their peers.

The winning duo, Jason Campbell and Nakeida Williamson, pitched EduConnect Centre, a student-friendly hub that will provide reliable internet access, devices, printing services, and support for School Based Assessments and assignments. Their proposal aims to address long-standing barriers such as limited access to computers and connectivity, which often hinder students’ academic performance.

Campbell explained that the idea was born out of their own daily struggles.

“Most of the time we as students want to get our work completed, but we don’t have access to computers or the things we need,” he said. “Some people don’t even have phones, and they have to rely on others who might not be willing to help. We want to make it easier so more students can pass.”

Williamson added that their motivation was also rooted in reshaping perceptions of the school.

“There’s a stigma on technical and non-traditional high schools,” she said. “We wanted something that could lift the school’s profile and help more students get good grades in Caribbean Secondary Education exams, Caribbean Advance Proficiency Examination, and City & Guilds. Winning means we can bring this idea to life and help build a better school environment.”

Despite a rocky start to competition day, including printing challenges and the sudden departure of a team member, the pair impressed the judges with their clarity, confidence, and passion.

“I didn’t expect it,” Williamson admitted. “Everything was going wrong this morning, and our teammate who was supposed to present left. But we pushed through, and I’m happy we won.”

Each of the students received $25,000, while the school earned a $100,000 implementation grant from Project STAR to bring EduConnect Centre to reality. The business is expected to require a startup cost of about $48,000, supported by existing school resources.

Campbell said the victory has strengthened his confidence about pursuing his dream career in real estate, while Williamson hopes to one day become a serial entrepreneur. Both students plan to save their prize money to invest in their futures.

Organisers hail the students’ creativity and determination. Project STAR representatives praised the students for their engagement, resilience, and willingness to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.

Myshka Allen, education coordinator at Project STAR, said the initiative was designed to give young people practical skills and meaningful opportunities that aligned with principles that were being taught in their business classes.

“We wanted something interactive, engaging, but also enriching, something you can take with you for months and years to come,” she told the students. “You’ve shown enthusiasm, creativity, and the drive to turn ideas into action.”

“We wanted to give you real-life experience and a chance to put what you’re learning in business class into practicality,” she said. “The winning pitch is something we want the school to actually implement, and we are committed to working with you to make it a reality.”

Over the past weeks, Project STAR trained 75 students through business simulation and professional development boot camps, focusing on entrepreneurship, career readiness, resume writing, and interview preparation.