The St. Thomas Co-operative Credit Union (STCCU) Limited came a step closer to achieving its mandate of strengthening the economic and social base of the parish of St. Thomas when it recently awarded 20 students with bursaries amounting to J$200,000.00. As the only financial institution with its roots in the parish, the STCCU made the award based on the performance of the beneficiaries in the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT). These bursaries are intended to assist the students with tuition and other back to school expenses as they embark on a path of personal development and financial independence.

Speaking at the launch of the 2011 GSAT Bursary Programme, Mr Hopeton Morrison, General Manager of the STCCU, lauded the initiative as a cornerstone in nation building. “We want to improve the education status of the parish and the country. Each student is being given the opportunity to undertake basic education on the path towards professional development, to be in a position to build personal wealth and achieve independence”, Mr Morrison posited. “In addition, our commitment to excellence and corporate governance as well as social responsibility demands initiatives such as these”, he said.

In underscoring the responsibility thrust upon the students, veteran educator and guest speaker at the event, Mrs Ena Barclay used her remarks to give a lesson in citizenry. “You have been given an olive branch on the right path. Make yourselves and your parents proud”, she said. “Develop a passion for learning. Develop the mentality and attitude for work from now. Learn the value and rewards of hard work, because it is only those that have endured, who will succeed”, she ended.

Thirteen girls were among the students that accepted the challenge of becoming responsible adults and making a difference in their community and country at the launch of the Inaugural GSAT Bursary Programme of the STCCU.