Minister Presents $2.2M In Scholarship Funds
Parents and students gathered on Thursday [Aug 16] at the XL Building for the annual presentation of the Bermuda Government Scholars and other Awards and Bursaries. Minister of Education Dame Jennifer Smith presented a total of $2.2 million in scholarships and awards to 60 Bermudians studying for a wide range of careers.
The funds cover students in the following categories:
- Bermuda Government Scholarships;
- Further Education Awards;
- Interest Free Student Loans;
- Mature Student Awards;
- Sabbatical Awards; and
- Teacher Training Awards
The 2012 Bermuda Government Scholars were among the 60 who received scholarships and awards and are: Erik Pearson, Kelsea Williams, Marianglea Bucci, Rachel Waldron, Tia Lori Smith, Alesha Page, Kyla Sinclair and Tashel Bean.
Dame Jennifer praised the recipients for their accomplishments and reminded them that they represent Bermuda’s future as she encouraged them to return to the Island with their skills and credentials.
She noted, “Being chosen as a Bermuda Government Scholar is a significant achievement, something you can put on your resume and something that we in the Ministry plan to remember with a plaque.”
Dame Smith with from L to R: Tashel Bean, Kelsea Williams, Marianglea Bucci, Rachel Waldron, Tia Lori Smith, Sen. Diallo Rabain, Alesha Page, Kyla Sinclair and Erik Pearson.
Minister Smith said that , “Each Spring, the Board of Education’s scholarship sub-committee sifts through a multitude of applicants seeking help to fund their education. The stark reality is that while nothing would please us more than helping everyone who applies, we have finite financial resources.
“The scholarships and awards being distributed this year represent an investment for this Government. An investment in the future, because we believe that the studies you are undertaking will serve this community well upon your return.
“For our part, the Government remains committed to assisting all whom we can to prepare to serve Bermuda.”
Many thanks to Dame Jennifer and the Government for assisting our young people to progress towards higher learning!!! It is much appreciated from a single parent like myself ! Once again thank you so much!
2.2 Millon huh? Either way, the bow tie looks ridiculous. Did ‘D’ lose a bet?
Is it so that if students who receive scholarships don’t return to the Island or return and don’t work for Gov’t for 3 years have to repay the funds – or is that something else??? Just wondering?
2.2 million…. must be nice spending other peoples money
Congratulations to all of Bermuda’s budding professionals. Take God with you in your studies.
Lovely I like this as it is a hand up as needed and investing in Bermuda’s future. Also there was not the usual throng of political figures hogging the camera in what has become the norm. Kudos to Bda Gov’t and well done Dame Jennifer for leaving the photo oppertunist out of the shots.
Congratulations to the recipients – well done. Hate to add a negative tone – however, consistent with most education awards over the last couple of years, there is a heavy weighting towards Bermudian females. One is indeed forced to ask the question regarding representation of Bermudian males (let’s ignore race for this one people). Shame really – especially considering the current economy – our males should be taking every opportunity to prepare themselves for the future. Oh well…………
Yo who dat fine man in da front? Tall and lean mmmmhmm