The JDF Co-operative Credit Union (JDFCCU) hosted its annual Treasure Chest Scholarship Awards ceremony on Friday, August 29, 2025, delivering over J$2.3 million in scholarships.

Held at the Caribbean Military Academy at Up Park Camp in Kingston, this year’s ceremony saw the credit union meeting the needs of 49 applicants, in keeping with its commitment to national development and youth empowerment. In observance of the theme ‘From Foundations to Futures: BUILDING Educational Pathways’, the event highlighted JDFCCU’s ongoing mission to support academic excellence while easing the financial pressure on families as they prepare for the new school year.

Emphasising the credit union’s mission, Lt Colonel Maxwell Gordon, the president of the JDFCCU, noted: “Education is one of the most powerful tools for transformation. Through the Treasure Chest Scholarship, we are investing in the future of our country, one student at a time. This initiative is not just about rewards; it’s about opportunity, equity, and long-term impact.”

In a historic first for the event, the ceremony was held before the start of the academic year, departing from its usual mid-September to early October schedule. In addition to the scholarship awards, 16 credit union members received backpack giveaways for their commendable academic performance during the 2024–2025 academic school year, underscoring the Credit Union’s support of youth development.

“We understand the challenges families face, especially during the back-to-school period,” explained Jhenelle Trowers, marketing and engagement officer at JDFCCU.

“By awarding these scholarships ahead of the academic year, we hope to provide not only financial support but peace of mind to parents and motivation to students. It’s about building solid educational foundations that lead to bright futures.”

The Treasure Chest Scholarship programme is an annual recognition of the academic achievements of the children of credit union members. The scholarships are in two categories: Primary Category, for students who have excelled in the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations, and Secondary Category, for students who have demonstrated strong performance in CSEC, CAPE exams and are transitioning to sixth form or tertiary studies.

To be eligible for the scholarships, applicants must be the child of a JDFCCU member in good financial standing and hold a Treasure Chest Account with consistent savings. Primary Category applicants must have earned a minimum of 320 points in the PEP exams, while Secondary Category applicants must have passed at least 5 subjects at CSEC/CXC, or at least 3 subjects at CAPE Unit 2 or GCE A-Level, in one sitting.

The JDF Co-operative Credit Union congratulates all scholarship recipients and commends their families for their continued support and dedication. As the Credit Union continues to grow, so too does its resolve to empower Jamaica’s youth and help shape a brighter, more equitable future for all.