The Barita Cornerstone Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Youth, proudly celebrated the achievements of Jamaican students by awarding scholarships totalling $9.5 million, spanning from early childhood to tertiary education. 

With CEO Ramon Small-Ferguson and Executive Director Tanketa Chance-Wilson leading the charge, there was an air of excitement as they spoke about the scholarships and bursaries that would enable 52 bright, young minds to attain their educational goals.

Recognising Corporate and Government Relationships

Minister of Education and Youth, Fayval Williams gave her remarks, honouring Barita for their continued investments into education over the years. She lauded their efforts, recognising the incredible impact of the Barita’s Cornerstone Foundation as a corporate figure playing their role in giving back to the community.

“To see the coming together of two corporate entities and their continuation of something that the prior companies started and expanded on it, keeping the focus on education is commendable,” she said. “I recall during the pandemic Barita Foundation was there with devices for our students and they have continued to focus on our students.”

She also declared that education makes a difference in our lives and the way we interact, and great importance is placed on assisting students in their educational pursuits. Noting the long-term impact she stated, “It is going to be for the betterment of all of us. “Cherish this gift, use it wisely. We are depending on all of you to grow up and take your rightful place in society.”

Uplifting the Youth… Transforming Jamaica

Over the past few years, the Barita Foundation has awarded over 45 grants that include 34 scholarships and 11 bursaries. This initiative has helped students focus on their education rather than finances. From early childhood to tertiary education, the foundation is about making education more accessible.

In his remarks, CEO of Barita, Ramon Small-Ferguson, noted that the Barita Cornerstone Foundation will continue to play its role, keeping education at the epicentre of their philanthropic endeavours, noting that it is what will help transform Jamaica.

“This is very important to us, at the centre of what we do is the transformation of Jamaica,” he said. “Cornerstone has infused a lot of growth, but we have also infused a lot of growth into our direct philanthropic efforts as a foundation… we have broadened the mandate but we have kept education at the centre.”

He noted that this is Cornerstone’s 3rd role out of this scholarship programme and they have so far awarded over 20 million dollars in direct scholarships, assisting over 100 awardees.

“Education is the most effective ladder, and  I recognise that personally and we recognise that as an institution, “ he added. “So we will be continuing to support  the education sector in Jamaica, whether it directly through programmes like this or through hopefully working with the Ministry of Education on more strategic endeavours that tie into the long-term strategy of the ministry.”

The scholarship is open to Jamaican citizens aged 18 to 29 who reside in Jamaica and are either clients of Barita/Cornerstone or children of such clients with accounts active for at least six months. Applicants must be pursuing their first degree, demonstrate financial need, maintain a high academic performance (GPA of 3.0 or above, or equivalent), and show involvement in extracurricular activities or volunteer work.

Beyond Scholarships

The Barita Foundation also offers two special awards through the Governor General’s Programme of Excellence—Summer of Service. These awards encourage academic success and community engagement, allowing students to get the best education.

With each awardee exhibiting hope, determination, and the potential to make a difference in Jamaica and with Barita Foundation by their side, CEO Small-Ferguson these young leaders have the potential to shine even brighter.