WiMAC Jamaica Launches Grant Programme for Primary-School Students

The Women in Maritime Association, Caribbean (WiMAC) Jamaica Chapter, has launched a Primary School Educational Grant Programme to support outstanding students in communities connected to Jamaica’s maritime sector.

The initiative, funded through a newly established Educational Fund, will provide annual assistance to students attending primary schools within the country’s maritime communities. Rousseau Primary School has been selected as the inaugural participating institution, with two grade-six students receiving grants to assist with their transition to high school.

The 2026 awardees who are now attending Excelsior High and the Queen’s School, were announced in August and the grants have been dispatched to the school to be presented to the students at an appropriate time.

The students along with their parents and guardians will also be recognised at the upcoming WiMAC Jamaica Chapter Breakfast Summit.

In an interview with JIS News, President of WiMAC Jamaica, Valrie Campbell, said the initiative is part of the Chapter’s commitment to promoting maritime awareness, while investing in the educational development of young people.

“While the WiMAC Jamaica Primary School Scholarship Programme provides financial support, its impact reaches far beyond the grant itself. It serves as an early bridge to the maritime community and WiMAC,” Miss Campbell said.

“This will increase maritime awareness from an early age and help students to understand the importance of Jamaica’s maritime sector and the vital role women play in leading, shaping and advancing the industry,” the President added.

Ms. Campbell said the programme will also help to expose students to the importance of the maritime sector and the opportunities it provides.

She noted that investing in education is critical to developing a generation of young Jamaicans who are not only aware of but also are prepared to contribute to the country’s maritime industry.

“Through this initiative, we inspire curiosity, broaden awareness of maritime careers, and invest in the next generation of leaders who will one day contribute to Jamaica’s growth and global competitiveness,” the President outlined.

The Primary School Educational Grant Programme forms part of WiMAC Jamaica Chapter’s wider efforts to support education, youth development and increased awareness of the maritime sector.

Through the initiative, the Chapter is seeking to encourage academic excellence and empower young people to explore opportunities within the maritime industry.