National Irrigation Commission Gives Scholarships And Grants To Students

Ten students attending secondary and tertiary educational institutions have received scholarships and grants from the National Irrigation Commission (NIC), valued at more than $1 million.

The recipients, who are children of employees at the NIC, received the awards at a ceremony held on January 30 at the Four Seasons Hotel in St. Andrew.

State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Floyd Green, who addressed the ceremony, encouraged the recipients to assist their communities.

“Give back to your community, find some way to help those around you. Go to the communities, and speak to those persons who are having challenges. We have to rekindle the spirit of each one helping another one,” he told the students.

The State Minister commended the agency for its investment in education, and called on the students to “use technology as an enabling tool, and to increase your knowledge”.

The Scholarship Programme helps to promote three of the core values of the NIC: Excellence – excellent performance of children; Commitment – dedication in supporting the development of children; and Teamwork—partnership with critical stakeholders.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer at the agency, Joseph Gyles, told the recipients that they were awarded and celebrated for hard work and motivation, and implored them to embrace the “new technologies” that are reshaping the globe.

“Your brain is your biggest power, use it to make the difference in this your country. The world is waiting for your contribution,” Mr. Gyles said.

Replying on behalf of the recipients, Kenyata Thomas called on the other awardees to “continue to strive for excellence in all that we do, and to make full use of these scholarships”.

“Not only should we make our parents proud but also the NIC, the unions, and the awards committee,” he said.

Over the years, the agency has extended the assistance to include book vouchers or grants.

JAMAICA INFORMATION SERVICE