Technology Minister Lauds JC Old Boys’ Association in New York

Minister of Science, Energy and Technology, Dr. the Hon Andrew Wheatley, has lauded the Jamaica College Old Boys ‘Association of New York (JCOBA-NY) for its significant contribution to the advancement of science and technology in the diaspora and Jamaica.

“I welcome the focus of your organisation on implementing a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education programme for national development. There is no doubt that Jamaica College (JC) is the home for robotics innovation,” he said, at the Association’s third Annual Griffin Awards and Fundraiser, at the SVA Theatre in New York City on Saturday, June 9.

The Minister described the JC’s robotics team winning the prestigious Inspire Award at the first Tech Challenge in New York as a remarkable achievement by the students.

Dr. Wheatley was the recipient of the Association’s Inaugural Science and Technology Leadership Award, which was presented to him by Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Audrey Marks.

The Minister also commended the association for its project team work, which is geared towards upgrading Jamaica’s national workforce with a target of 30,000 students with 21st century skills by 2030.

For his part, President of the Association in New York, Carl Bennett, described Dr. Wheatley as a beacon of hope for a nation in need of direction towards competence, science and technology.

“Your achievement as an academic, researcher, innovator and public servant has improved the lives of untold thousands of Jamaicans,” he told the Minister.

During the event, the Association also recognised and presented awards to several individuals, including Dr. Robynne Chupkan and Vanessa Nole, who both received the Woman of Distinction Award; and Wenford Patrick Simpson, who received the Jamaica Brand Ambassador Award.

The Distinguished Alumnus Award went to four past students – Businessman, Gary ‘Butch’ Hendrickson, and Drs. William Foster, Paul Lindo and Dwight Williams.

The screening of Trevor Rhone’s iconic film, ‘Smile Orange’, was the headline entertainment for the evening.