JEP Group scholarship drive reaches St Elizabeth via InterEnergy Jamaica Wind

Through its affiliate InterEnergy Jamaica Wind (IJW), JEP Group has brought its established scholarship scheme into St Elizabeth, so that young people in areas served by the renewable-energy firm can obtain help with the cost of secondary and tertiary studies.

The move continues a private-sector education effort that, over roughly three decades, has put more than $100 million behind Jamaican students and ranks among the island’s longest-running corporate scholarship programmes.

St Elizabeth’s inclusion means the awards now cover learners who live where InterEnergy Jamaica Wind has operations, widening access to schooling support and underscoring the group’s emphasis on community development.

For more than 30 years since the programme began, hundreds of secondary and tertiary students have received funding that reduces money pressures and promotes strong academics, leadership skills and personal growth.

JEP Group says awardees are also urged to repay their communities by volunteering, caring for the environment and taking part in local engagement.

Dr Yanique Montague-Williams, a past recipient who is now a medical doctor, reflects that approach. She gives her time at JEP Group community health fairs, treating residents in underserved areas free of charge.

Management pointed to her path from scholarship holder to volunteer as evidence that spending on education yields gains that outlast any one person’s career.

“Education is the most powerful tool we have to break the cycle of poverty,” said Dr Wayne McKenzie, president and chief executive officer of JEP Group.

“For us, a scholarship is more than financial assistance. It is an investment in future leaders who can make meaningful contributions to their communities and to Jamaica’s development. We believe that when young people are given the opportunity to succeed, the benefits extend far beyond the individual to families, communities and the country as a whole.”

The group describes the scholarship scheme as a leading pillar of its community investment and ties it to the view that schooling is among the surest routes to tougher, more resilient neighbourhoods.

Officials added that alumni of the awards have entered medicine, engineering, teaching, business and public service in large numbers.

Beyond the money, scholars are pressed to join environmental work, outreach efforts and other projects meant to advance sustainable local development.

Opening the programme in St Elizabeth, the company said, should put schooling support within reach of still more youths while nurturing service and leadership where they live.