Lafayette College Establishes Scholarship Fund to Mark PM’s Visit

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller left the island on Friday, May 23, for Pennsylvania, USA, where she will deliver the keynote address at the Lafayette College’s 179th Commencement Ceremony. Mrs. Simpson Miller will also receive an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from the institution.

Expressing delight at the decision of the Prime Minister to address the graduates and parents, the President of Lafayette College Alison Byerly said the visit of the Jamaican Prime Minister will provide an opportunity for discussion on ways in which Jamaica’s quest to develop its economy and enhance its global connectedness might lead to new opportunities for Lafayette students and faculty. The College President said consideration is also being given to strengthening Lafayette’s academic community with outstanding and highly qualified Jamaican students who are interested in future leadership roles and in helping their country’s efforts to transform its economy and civil society.

Toward this end and in recognition of the Prime Minister’s visit, Lafayette College has decided to establish a scholarship fund to enroll future students from Jamaica. The scholarships will cover the full financial needs of the recipients for four years in addition to a stipend for overseas study experience. The College presently counts six Jamaicans among its alumni since 1997.

Lafayette is a top American Liberal Arts College that offers a wide range of undergraduate degree programmes, including engineering. It has one of the highest endowment-per-student rates with significant resources to fund student research and provide opportunities for study abroad, internships and field work.

The Prime Minister will return to the island on Sunday (May 25). While overseas, Dr the Hon. Omar Davies, Minister of Transport, Works and Housing will be in charge of the Government. (END)