NCB Foundation Provides $15.9 Million to Pay Exam Fees for 3,183 Students

The National Commercial Bank (NCB) Foundation has doubled its investment in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) National Bursary Programme for 2026.

On Friday (April 17), $15.9 million was handed over to the Overseas Examination Commission, during a ceremony at NCB Atrium in Kingston.

This represents a significant increase from last year’s contribution of $7.8 million.

The funds will support the payment of examination fees for students across 36 schools in the subjects of Information Technology, Principles of Accounts and Principles of Business.

Acting Chief Education Officer in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Terry-Ann Thomas Gayle, said the NCB Foundation has built strong and admirable legacy of supporting education in Jamaica, primarily through the bursary programme.

“It is a powerful investment in human potential. It is a statement of confidence in our young people, and it reaffirms that when we work together, across public and private sectors, we can transform education for national development,” Ms. Thomas Gayle said.

She noted that the programme has consistently recognised academic excellence while also addressing financial barriers that too often stand in the way of student success.

Ms. Thomas Gayle reasoned that their support ensures that talent is not limited by circumstances and that excellence is nurtured regardless of background.

“Behind every bursary awarded is a story, a student who dared to dream, a family that sacrificed, a teacher who encouraged, and a nation that believed,” she said.

In his remarks, Chief Executive Officer of the NCB Foundation, Perrin Gayle, said the programme has experienced significant growth with 36 schools participating, up from 26 in 2025.

This expansion also translated to increased student impact, with 3,183 students benefiting, compared to 1,310 in the previous year.

He shared that the NCB Foundation believes that education is one of the most effective ways to expand opportunity and strengthen long-term outcomes for individuals and for Jamaica.

“Our focus is on access, relevance and preparedness. Access so that students can sit these subjects they need, relevance so that these subjects align with areas of real demand and preparedness. so that students are equipped to move confidently into further study or the working world,” Mr. Gayle said.

Since 2003, the NCB Foundation has invested $280 million to sponsor select CSEC subjects, benefiting more than 112,000 student entries.