NCB Foundation has officially handed over its $25-million contribution to the University of West Indies (UWI) toward clearing the debt of some 229 students in need.

The handover ceremony took place on November 10, on the university grounds and in attendance were Patrick Hylton, president and CEO of the NCB Financial Group, NCB Foundation Chairman Dr. Thalia Lyn, NCB executives as well as members of the UWI Guild and beneficiaries of the donation.

“The gift of education is the only one that keeps on giving back to our nation and this is why education continues to be the NCB Foundation’s primary area of remit,” said Hylton in his address.

“As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’. Education provided the platform for me to transcend my humble beginnings in Four Paths, Clarendon and I am humbled to be in a position to lead an organisation that gives back to young men and women just like me, who represent the future of our nation.”

Hylton added: “Your degree is valid. You worked hard and you earned it,  but your most prized possession must be your ability to learn new things and adapt to change. That will serve you well forever.”

Dale Webber, pro vice chancellor and principal of the University of the West Indies, also expressed gratitude for the donation, stating: “Undoubtedly, this contribution will further assist our students, many of whom are from challenging economic circumstances, to continue their academic journey at The UWI Mona campus and we remain grateful to the NCB Foundation for its steadfast support over the years. We look forward to future partnerships to support our mission of revitalising Caribbean development.”