Project STAR, the social and economic transformation initiative of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force, has received support for its efforts to empower the nation’s youth courtesy of the Scotia Foundation. 

The foundation recently donated J$12.5 million to Project STAR of which J$7 million will be used to fund the Student Education and Empowerment Programme (SEEP).

SEEP is an evidence-based human capital development intervention within specified vulnerable communities in eastern downtown Kingston. Two schools, Holy Family Primary and Kingston Technical High, have been identified as the focal points of the programme. 

“Research shows that one of the main developmental challenges affecting communities in East Kingston is low educational outcomes at all levels,” shared Kalando Wilmoth, strategic partnership lead at Project STAR.

“A survey by the Planning Institute of Jamaica revealed that in one (East Kingston) community, only 16 per cent of residents have basic certification in a skilled area, 14 per cent have at least one CSEC subject and less than one per cent have a university degree,” he said.

He added that the objectives under the programme are to enhance the resilience of selected cohorts of students academically, behaviourally and psychosocially, while supporting their parents and teachers.  

“Through these interventions, we expect to see reduced anti-social behaviour and improved educational outcomes amongst the targeted beneficiaries,” Wilmoth said. 

Yanique Forbes-Patrick, vice president of public affairs and communications, says the Scotia Foundation’s support for the Student Education and Empowerment programme synergises with its efforts to help Jamaican young people reach their full potential while fostering national development. 

“This programme is in perfect alignment with our ScotiaRISE global philanthropy vision which focuses on removing barriers to career advancement and increasing high school graduation and post-secondary participation,” Forbes-Patrick outlined. 

She added that undertakings of this nature are important as they help to build economic resilience sustainably. 

The Student Education and Empowerment Programme got underway in January 2025 and will run for three years.