Digicel Scholarship Winners Rewarded

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS (October 12th, 2012) – While some students in St. Kitts and Nevis spent the last few weeks of their summer enjoying video games, reality TV shows and playing sports, some students penned essays in their pursuit of receiving the first ever Digicel Scholarship. In mid-August, the leading Telecommunications Company, Digicel, invited High School students in both St. Kitts and Nevis to write an essay expressing “why their school is the top school in the Federation.” The Digicel Scholarship of $2,000 would be shared by two winning students and the high school attended by each recipient.

Digicel Representatives present cheque to scholarship winner, Nailah Nisbett and ICCS Principal, Sidney Osborne

On Tuesday 9th October, the Digicel Team surprised the top winner, Nailah Nisbett, during her school’s morning assembly. Nailah, a Grade 10 student of The Immaculate Conception Catholic School, in her essay, described the ICCS as “a 21st Century educational edifice with a qualified teaching team and energetic student body.” Nailah received $500, while the school also benefited from a cash prize of $500, which was accepted by principal, Mr. Sidney Osborne. The Digicel Team was witness to the “energetic student body” as loud cheers and applause echoed throughout the church walls as Nailah accepted her award. The following day, Tuesday 10th October, the Digicel Team journeyed to the Green Valley area to present the second place winner, Cayon High School Fifth Form student, Blestina Charles, with her Digicel Scholarship of $500. In her very creative essay, Blestina emphasized the school’s involvement in extra-curricular activities and success in sports, especially “netball with many years of unrivalled success which reinforces the committed and dedicated students that were involved.” Principal, Mr. Addison accepted $500 on behalf of the faculty, staff and student body of the Cayon High School.

Second place winner, Blestina Charles of the Cayon High School and Principal, Addison James, receive cheque from Digicel Representatives

“In August when the Digicel Scholarship was introduced, we wanted to offer some financial relief to both parents and schools, and at the same time enhance the education experience of the students. We congratulate the winners and encourage all students to remain focused on their education to secure a productive future,” expressed Sean Latty, Digicel Country Manager.

Digicel wishes to thank the many students who submitted essays, as well as the parents and teachers who encouraged these students to take part. Appreciation must be given to Ministry of Education officials, Mrs. Ionie Liburd-Willett and Mr. Michael Blake, who assisted with the judging of the essays received. This was the first year that Digicel offered a scholarship of its type in St. Kitts and Nevis, and has given their full commitment to make the scholarship bigger and better in the future, increasing the reward, allowing more students and schools to benefit.