KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamalco has awarded close to $23 million in scholarships and grants to 101 high school and tertiary students under its annual Education Assistance Programme.

The recipients were recognised at the company’s Scholarship Awards Ceremony, recently held at the Wembley Centre of Excellence.

Speaking at the event, Jamalco’s Vice President of Operations, Adriaan Strydom, underscored the importance of investing in young people and the institutions that shape their development. He noted that the awards reflect a shared responsibility to nurture talent and create opportunities, adding that by supporting education, the company is actively contributing to nation-building. Strydom also praised the awardees, highlighting their dedication and commitment to excellence.

Jamalco’s top scholarship recipient, Marissa Barker, a second-year student at the University of Technology (second right), proudly displays her scholarship commitment letter and award. Sharing in the moment (left to right) are Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Relations, Donna Marie Brooks; Vice President of Operations, Adriaan Strydom; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Skills and Information, Rhoda Moy Crawford.

He further explained that Jamalco has spent the past 20 years expanding access to educational opportunities across Clarendon and Manchester. He pointed out that in the previous year, the company, in partnership with co-owner Century Aluminum, distributed more than $25 million in scholarships, bursaries and book grants to nearly 400 recipients.

This year, 81 students were selected for Jamalco’s core scholarships from a pool of more than 450 applicants. An additional 20 High Achievers Scholarships, valued at $350,000 each and totaling $7 million, are being presented by Century Aluminum. In total, the programme accounts for 101 scholarship awards, including 61 returning recipients and 40 new awardees. Beyond these scholarships, approximately 350 students are expected to benefit from book grants and vouchers valued at a combined $3 million in August, while 10 students received GSAT/PEP scholarships totalling $400,000.

Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Relations, Donna Marie Brooks, described the ceremony as more than a routine presentation, calling it a celebration of promise, perseverance and possibility. She emphasised that education remains a powerful driver of both individual success and community upliftment. Brooks also noted that Jamalco consistently allocates more than half of its community development budget to education-focused initiatives, including scholarships, mentorship programmes, book vouchers and technology support.

Guest speaker, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Skills and Information, Rhoda-Moy Crawford, commended Jamalco for its sustained investment in education and its impact on communities in the region. She encouraged the students to remain focused and determined, reminding them that success is attainable regardless of their circumstances. She also described the company’s continued support, despite economic pressures, as a strong demonstration of confidence in Jamaica’s future.

General Manager of Clarendon Alumina Production Limited, Shanice Neisbeth-Castle, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to community development, noting that education remains one of the most impactful ways to transform lives and strengthen communities.

For Century Aluminum Scholarship recipient Marvin Whyte, a law student at the University of the West Indies, the award represents a meaningful step toward achieving his goal of becoming a corporate lawyer. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing the scholarship as an investment in his future and a reminder of the importance of giving back. He shared that his ultimate aspiration is not only to build a successful career, but also to become a source of hope and opportunity for others.

The Jamalco Community Scholarship Programme provides financial assistance to students in Clarendon and Manchester who demonstrate strong academic performance and financial need. Applicants are required to maintain a minimum B+ average or a 3.0 GPA, ensuring that the programme continues to support dedicated and high-achieving students.