OUTSTANDING STUDENTS RECOGNISED BY POOR RELIEF DEPARTMENT
MONTEGO BAY, March 25 (JIS):
The Poor Relief Department has recognised 62 outstanding students for their academic achievements in the 2024 Primary Exit Profile (PEP), Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) tests.
The event was held at Royalton Negril on March 21, under the theme ‘Brilliance in Action: Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders’.
Among the top awardees was Gavin Plummer, the highest PEP scorer, with an average of 90.6 per cent, who now attends Herbert Morrison Technical High School in Montego Bay. The top CSEC performer, Devonte Walker, also from Herbert Morrison Technical High School, secured seven subjects.
Shanniece Ramdas, who excelled in CAPE with outstanding results in Biology, Chemistry, Communication Studies, and Pure Mathematics, is now pursuing a degree in Biotechnology at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona.
A special award was also presented to Tammoya Legore, who is currently studying Computer Science and Entrepreneurship at UWI. Her award was sponsored by former Poor Relief Officer, Marlene Dixon, who remains deeply committed to supporting the education of young beneficiaries.
In his address, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, told the students that “success has no limitations” and they should build upon the foundation provided by the Poor Relief Department.
“So, I’m saying to you this morning that Poor Relief can only take you so far. The rest is up to you,” the Minister said.
“I know it’s difficult for some of you, because the things that you really want in life, sometimes you find it challenging and think that you will never be able to achieve it, but you’re wrong, as the only obstacle in your way can only come if you create those obstacles,” he added.
Mr. McKenzie further announced plans to unveil additional government support for children in the poor relief system during his Sectoral Presentation in the House of Representatives on May 28.
In the meantime, he pointed out the critical role of Poor Relief officers and the Board of Supervision, stating that they are instrumental in transforming lives.
“One of the things that you must always remember is the persons who look out for you, the people that were there for you, the Poor Relief Officers. If there’s one group that has created an impact that has far-reaching implications and results for the country, that is the Poor Relief Officers. They are a fantastic set of people,” the Minister said.
For her part, Corporate Secretary of the Board of Supervision in the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, Treka Lewis, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to empowering young people through mentorship, workshops, and financial support.
She noted that plans are in place to expand youth empowerment workshops across Poor Relief Departments, thus ensuring that students receive the tools they need to overcome their challenges and succeed in life.
“This is a celebration of young minds who, despite challenges, have chosen to ignite the flame of brilliance and lead the way forward for themselves, their families and, of course, their communities,” Ms. Lewis said.
Meanwhile, Devonte reflected on his journey and the economic challenges he overcame. He credited his late mother for instilling in him the belief that he could achieve anything through dedication.
Despite facing financial challenges and skeptics, Devonte said he remained determined to succeed and is now grateful to be recognised for his academic performance.
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CONTACT: OKOYE HENRY
JIS REGIONAL OFFICE
MONTEGO BAY
