The Governor-General’s Programme for Excellence (GGPE) has been monitoring closely the developments regarding the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Jamaica, and our priority remains the safety of you, our stakeholders. The GGPE has therefore taken the difficult decision to suspend the Summer of Service (SOS) Programme for 2020.
The SOS Programme which provides scholarships for youth volunteers who are matriculating or are completing their first undergraduate year, was scheduled to be launched on April 1 and run from June 1 to July 28. Adhering to the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), we note that it would not be feasible for participants to complete the required service hours.
“We regret this situation, but the health of all participants is our top priority. This will undoubtedly be a disappointment for several students who were looking forward to participate in the SOS this year,” Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General and Patron of the GGPE stated. Prospective participants are encouraged to continue maintaining good grades and consider applying for the 2021 iteration of the programme. “One thing is certain: scholarship recipients who are still enrolled in school and continue to meet high academic standards are likely to meet the requirements for acceptance in the programme,” Sir Patrick Allen added.
“We would like to thank all our sponsors for their continued support and encourage that they remain resolute is their efforts in using what is right with Jamaica to fix what is wrong with Jamaica amidst the challenges,” the Governor-General encouraged.
Meanwhile, Ms. Simms National Coordinator for the GGPE stated that students now have ample time to focus on improving their grades and working on project proposals which will help them to gain the rewards of volunteerism. The SOS, which is in its seventh year, has since inception provided close to $J60million in scholarships for students attending University Council of Jamaica (UCJ) accredited universities and colleges across Jamaica. In 2019, the programme provided grants and scholarships valued at $J17.3 million for 24 students from across Jamaica.
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For More Information, Please Contact:
Governor-General’s Programme for Excellence
Office of the Governor-General and Staff
King’s House, Hope Road, Kingston
Tel: 876-927-2464 Cell: 876-550-9460, 876-550-4534
