CLARENDON & MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Hundreds of students across central Jamaica are set to receive a much-needed boost this academic year, as Jamalco and Century Aluminum roll out a renewed J$25 million education assistance programme aimed at shaping the island’s next generation of leaders, professionals, and innovators.
Marking nearly two decades of uninterrupted investment in Jamaican youth, this year’s initiative supports over 450 students spanning early childhood, primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The programme has evolved into one of the most enduring corporate-backed education efforts in the region, blending financial aid with mentorship and long-term academic guidance.
Speaking at the launch event, stakeholders emphasized that the investment is not a one-time handout, but a sustained commitment to future-proofing the country’s talent pipeline.
“We are not simply funding students; we are laying the foundation for a stronger Jamaica,” said Marvin Jackson, Managing Director of Jamalco. “Education drives development, and our continued investment reflects our belief in the power of knowledge to transform lives and communities.”
Jackson noted that Jamalco has funneled more than $100 million into education initiatives in just the last five years—fueling scholarships, infrastructure improvements, and student wellness programs.
This year’s allocation includes:
- $14.6M in tertiary-level support, covering full scholarships and special academic grants
- $3M in textbook assistance for over 350 students in Jamalco’s operational communities
- $7M in scholarships under the Century Aluminum High Achievers Award
- Dedicated bursaries for top-performing PEP students
- A $1.5M scholarship package for six standout mentees in Jamalco’s internal mentorship programme
Levi Chaffin, Century Aluminum’s Vice President of Operations – Americas, added that their focus extends beyond dollars: “We’re doubling down on our belief that talent lives everywhere, but opportunity must be built. This is about shaping minds, building character, and investing in the long arc of national progress.”
One of the most poignant moments came from new UTech nursing student Jamelia McPherson, who lost her mother to cancer and now aspires to dedicate her life to patient care. “This scholarship is more than money,” she said. “It’s a reminder that I’m not alone in this journey.”
The event also featured remarks from Dr. Mark Smith, president of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association, who encouraged students to embrace obstacles as character-builders, and MP Pearnel Charles Jr, who called on them to carry the torch of excellence forward.
In summarizing the company’s vision, Donna Marie Brooks, Corporate Communications and PR Manager, explained:
“We don’t just fund dreams—we cultivate resilience. Every grant, every book voucher, every scholarship tells a child: You matter. Your future is worth the fight.”
Now entering its 19th year, Jamalco’s education initiative continues to be a vital pillar in the lives of students who, in many cases, would otherwise be left behind. With each investment, the company reaffirms a fundamental truth: when the private sector steps up, entire communities rise.
