Ten students received a total of JMD$800,000 in scholarships and 136 education sponsors were certified during the Central Jamaica Conference (CJC) Education Summit held May 30 at the Braeton Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in Portmore.
The Joseph M. & Fay E. Hutchinson Academic Scholarships were presented to two students from preparatory institutions, two from secondary institutions, and six from tertiary institutions. This is part of an ongoing effort to assist SDA youth in attaining academic qualifications.
CJC Education Department director, Rox-Anne McKoy Chambers, noted that in spite of the financial challenges facing Adventist schools, they are still growing, thanks in part to scholarship donors.
Keynote speaker, Elder Denworth Finnikin, emphasized that Christian education is an investment that creates rounded citizens who contribute to national growth and stability.
One of the scholarship recipients, Sean Segree, said he considered it to be more than just funding for his studies at Northern Caribbean University (NCU).
“This scholarship is more than financial support; it is a reflection of God’s favour and a reminder that He can make a way where there seems to be no way. It is an investment in my potential and a reminder that dedication, perseverance, and hard work are recognized,” he said.
The scholarship presentation was part of a ceremony culminating in the Education Sponsors Certification Course. The course was conducted by the CJC in collaboration with the East Jamaica Conference to empower education department leaders to function optimally in the role.
Education sponsor from the Church Pen SDAC, Karen Rapley, gave the graduate response in which she noted that the course provided valuable knowledge, new perspectives and greater understanding.
“As graduates, we recognize that education is not only for personal advancement, but also for ministry and service. We are committed to using what we have learnt to positively impact our churches,” she said
The ceremony also featured an awards segment recognizing individuals for their contributions to the education sponsors ministry.
The following individuals were recognized for their dedicated service:
* Jasmine Lawrence-Brown – Braeton SDA Church (7 years)
* Nelisha-Ann Powell – Windsor Heights SDA Church (5 years)
* Meachell Hutchinson-White – Gregory Park SDA Church (5 years)
* Rosalee Edwards – Spur Tree SDA Church (5 years)
For their exceptional leadership and commitment to the ‘Powered by a Dream Education Programme’, Carol Morgan of the Palm SDAC, who is the founder, and Kenneth Morrison of the Old Harbour SDAC were specially recognized. The programme has been generating scholarships, providing mentorship, and promoting Christian education for 10 years.
The summit was themed ‘Grace, Growth, and Gratitude," aligning with the focus of the CJC 65th Anniversary celebrations.
CJC president, Pastor Nevail Barrett and associate provost for Academic Affairs at NCU, Dr. Nanibala Immanuel Paul brought greetings while Education director at the Jamaica Union Conference, Pastor Stephen Drummond, delivered the homily.
A major highlight of the midday service included the parade of schools, which celebrated the growth and development of Adventist Christian Education (ACE) within the CJC. There was also a combined choir of all the represented schools namely:
* The Willowdene Group of Schools
* The Campbell's Castle Preparatory School
* The Victor Dixon High School
* The West Indies College Preparatory School
Approximately 250 students were in attendance accompanied by parents, teachers, education sponsors, church members, pastors, elders, and other stakeholders.
The CJC education summit is an annual gathering of educational institutions within the conference which provides opportunity for collaboration and informs stakeholders about the accomplishments and areas for growth in Adventist schools.