The initiative in Jamaica will cover select SLP members’ tuition.
By Karen Tomlinson, member of the New Kingston Kiwanis Club, Jamaica
The Kiwanis Eastern Canada and the Caribbean District (EC&C) and the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) in Kingston, Jamaica, are partnering on a historic J$9 million-plus initiative that will enable 10 outstanding students to receive a scholarship every academic year. All recipients will be current or former members of Service Leadership Program (SLP) clubs in the district, and each scholarship will cover the tuition for a two-year undergraduate associate degree program at UCC.
The scholarships were announced at UCC in February during a district visit by 2024-25 Kiwanis International President Lee Kuan Yong. UCC Group Executive Chairman and Founder Winston Adams, UCC President Colin Gyles, and EC&C District Governor Pam Rodney-White also attended.
The leaders emphasized that the event was more than just a scholarship launch. It also was a celebration of potential, achievement and the collective support of the academic community.
“This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to education and service,” says Gyles. “We are honored to collaborate with Kiwanis International and the EC&C District in fostering the growth and development of our youth, who are the catalysts for positive change in our societies.”
How it works
To be eligible for a scholarship, applicants must be current or former SLP members who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance and a commitment to community service. The scholarship is open to new students admitted to UCC’s undergraduate degree programs, including business administration, information technology, education, law, and health sciences.
“Kiwanis has always been dedicated to serving the children of the world, and this scholarship is an extension of that commitment,” Rodney-White says. “We are thrilled to see these bright students receive the support they need to pursue higher education and become leaders in their communities.”
The scholarship initiative is part of UCC’s ongoing efforts to make quality education accessible to all, regardless of financial constraints. By investing in young leaders, UCC and Kiwanis hope to create a ripple effect of positive impact across the Eastern Canada and the Caribbean District — and beyond.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming these outstanding students to the UCC community,” Gyles says. “Their passion, dedication and service to others align perfectly with our institutional values.”
How has your club or district supported Kiwanis Service Leadership Programs? Let us know at shareyourstory@kiwanis.org.
Karen Tomlinson is the public relations and marketing coordinator for Kiwanis International’s Eastern Canada and the Caribbean District.