Jamalco Commits Approximately $25 Million for Back-to-School Assistance
As part of a dedicated effort to uplift the nation’s future leaders, some 450 students across Clarendon and Manchester will benefit from Jamalco and Century Aluminum’s annual investment in education, amounting to approximately J$25 million. This ongoing initiative, now in its 19th year, continues to transform lives by providing critical scholarships, grants, and support to students at all levels of their academic journey.
From early childhood to tertiary studies, this program exemplifies a steadfast commitment to nurturing talent, fostering resilience, and creating opportunities for Jamaica’s young generation to thrive.
The event featured inspiring speeches from key leaders, including Dr. Mark Smith, President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association. Dr. Smith delivered a motivational message to the scholarship recipients, emphasizing that challenges are an inevitable part of life’s journey. “Education transforms lives,” he declared. “No matter the degree you pursue, the journey builds character. Keep pushing forward, and although doors may close, keep knocking.”
His words resonated deeply with the students, many of whom faced personal struggles. One such recipient, Jamelia McPherson, a new University of Technology student, shared her story of resilience. After losing her mother to cancer, Jamelia vowed to become a nurse, dedicating herself to caring for others. “This support from Jamalco has strengthened my resolve to succeed,” she said, her voice filled with hope.
Jamalco’s Managing Director, Marvin Jackson, underscored the company’s long-standing dedication to education. Mr. Jackson revealed that in the past five years, Jamalco has invested approximately J$100 million in educational initiatives. “Our support is not just for individual students; it’s an investment in Jamaica’s future,” Jackson stated. “From early childhood to tertiary education, we are committed to creating opportunities and fostering growth.”
Supporting this vision, Vice President of Operations – Americas at Century Aluminum, Levi Chaffin, reaffirmed Century’s shared commitment to empowering the next generation. The Century Aluminum High Achievers Award is in its third year, “and we continue to increase our support year after year because we believe in the power of education and the importance of nurturing talent within our communities,” Mr. Chaffin said.
Member of Parliament for Clarendon Southeastern, Pearnel Charles Jr., also delivered remarks, congratulating the students on their achievements while encouraging them to continue pursuing their goals with determination and resilience.
In her overview, Corporate Communications and P.R. Manager, Donna Marie Brooks says Jamalco invests in the minds and dreams of Jamaica’s youth because education is the key to unlocking potential and building a brighter, more resilient nation. She used the opportunity to provide a breakdown of this year’s scholarship package. “Six scholarships will be awarded to Jamaco mentees valued at J$1.5 million each, twelve special grants totaling J$2.52 million, and 53 tertiary scholarships worth J$10.6 million—totaling over J$14.6 million in direct support. Additionally, 10 PEP students will each receive bursaries of J$40,000, and approximately 350 students from Jamalco’s communities will benefit from book grants totaling J$3 million. Twenty Century scholarships will be awarded, totaling $7 million.”
Since its inception in 2007, Jamalco’s education assistance programme has provided consistent support to students throughout their academic journey. Recipients continue to benefit through to the end of their tertiary education, provided they maintain the programme’s performance criteria.
In photo above:
Senior Executives of Jamalco along with all the Jamalco’s 2025 scholarship awardees paused for the camera at the Jamalco education assistance awards event. Also in photo is Dr. Mark Smith, President of the Jamaica Teachers Association and Guest Speaker at the function.
Labour Day Initiatives Inspire Support in Clarendon and Manchester
Labour Day was a demonstration of community unity and purpose as community members, local leaders and Jamalco volunteers came together, not just to work, but to contribute to a shared vision of advancing projects in several key locations. The national theme “Protect the Environment: Our Land, Our Duty, Our Future” and the national slogan “Jamaica Nice, Protect Wi Paradise” echoed not just in words, but in action, as Jamalco reaffirmed its community commitment with sponsorship of four major projects.
In the community of Lancaster, Manchester, work started to erect a brand-new bus stop at the intersection of the Lancaster and Lewisfield main roads. This was done through a collaboration between Jamalco and the Lancaster Citizens’ Development Committee (CDC), the South Manchester Community Council, and local residents, and is intended to serve a dual purpose. Not only will it offer a safe and convenient shelter for students and commuters, especially during inclement weather, but it will also function as a temporary farming depot. Farmers from Lewisfield can now securely leave their produce to await pickup by merchants heading to the market.
President of the Lancaster Community Development Committee, Barry Muchette expressed gratitude, noting that residents had been advocating for this support for nearly a decade, since Jamalco’s mining operations began in the area. “We are pleased to see this plan finally come to fruition. The residents have pledged to take care of this facility as a sign of our appreciation,” he stated.
Meanwhile in Porus, the police station received a fresh coat of paint, revitalizing the building and boosting morale among officers and residents alike. In Clarendon, two other significant projects were completed: A male dormitory at Vere Technical High School was repainted, creating a more welcoming environment for the students; and the Mocho Community Centre was also refreshed with a new paint job. Jamalco volunteer, Tammy Tousseeus, reflected on her contribution to this project noting, “It was wonderful to work alongside the residents to accomplish one common goal.”
Additional work is slated to take place at the Mocho Community Centre and will include plumbing repairs and the installation of a new water pump to restore water to the facility’s underground storage tank. This work will make the centre ready for income-generating activities, such as vocational training and event rentals.
Community Health Fair Brings Vital Services to Residents
Clarendon: Access to quality healthcare can be a challenge for many residents in York Town and surrounding communities, making initiatives like the recent health and information fair a crucial lifeline. The event provided essential health screenings and medical consultations, ensuring that residents could receive the care they needed without financial barriers.
The event which was hosted at the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, York Town provided free health screenings, including blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and HIV testing. Attendees also had the opportunity to consult with a therapist who offered massage and range of motion services as well as doctors from the Clarendon Health Department. Additionally, representatives from social protection agencies such as the HEART Trust NSTA and the Registrar General’s Department offered information on their services and how to access them.
Sixty-nine residents took advantage of the services, which were fully sponsored by Jamalco. The sponsorship also covered prescription assistance for residents who required medication. Individuals needing further medical tests or specialized care were assessed on-site and given appropriate recommendations.
Beneficiaries expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Verna Hamilton of York Town shared her gratitude, stating, “It is difficult to find the money to keep up with my required regular health checks, so this is a blessing for my grandson and I.”
Among those who received care was Jordan Falconer, a student of Kemps Hill High School, who attended the fair due to a football-related foot injury that had been preventing him from attending school. He expressed his appreciation, noting that the therapist not only treated his injury but also provided valuable advice on managing his recovery.
The York Town Health Fair is the first of four scheduled to be held in Jamalco’s operating communities, continuing the company’s commitment to supporting the health and well-being of residents.
Students Honoured at Peace Day Essay Competition Awards Ceremony
Clarendon: As Jamaica grapples with challenges of crime and violence, students in Clarendon and Manchester participated in a essay competition which encouraged them to reflect on the importance of peace in building a better tomorrow. The Peace Day Essay Competition was organized by Jamalco under the theme: “The Power of Peace: Building a Better Tomorrow,” and it celebrated the dedication and creativity of students who shared thought-provoking ideas on promoting peace.
The students were recently recognized at an awards presentation for their creativity and thought provoking ideas in promoting peace at an award ceremony held at the Wembley Center of Excellence on Peace Day, March 4, 2025.
Delivering the main address, Guest Speaker, Barrington Richardson, Regional Director for Region 7 at the Ministry of Education, emphasized that peace begins with small acts of kindness. “Wherever you go—at home, at church, at school, and even on the roads—choose kindness,” he urged. He also reminded students of the golden rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” encouraging them to embody the change they wish to see in the world.
Donna Marie Brooks, Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Relations at Jamalco, inspired students to become ambassadors of peace in their schools, homes, and communities. “Start by promoting kindness, empathy, and understanding. Be mindful of your words and actions, as they have the power to either uplift or disrupt peace,” she advised. “I urge you all to be peacemakers and strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.”
Awards were presented in two categories: grades 4-6 in the primary schools and grades 7-11 in high schools. In the primary school category, the 1st Place winner was Trishara Imani Gray-Lowe of York Town Primary School while the 2nd place awardee was Arianna Small of Mocho Primary School. Kelsie-Page Graham of Mitchell Town Primary School received the 3rd place award.
In the high school category, Jhonnell Anderson of Winston Jones High School won the 1st place award. The 2nd place was awarded to Jamelia Williams of Vere Technical High School, and the 3rd place award was presented to Jayden McKenzie of Bustamante High School. Students were awarded a variety of prizes including trophies, laptops, tablets and cash awards for their school. All participants received a certificate of participation.
Jamalco proudly supports academic excellence and recognizes the achievements of these bright students. Through initiatives like this, the company remains committed to fostering a culture of peace and education in Jamaica. In photo above: Barrington Richardson, Regional Director for Region 7 at the Ministry of Education, joins the winners of Jamalco’s Peace Day Essay Competition. Trishara Imani Gray-Lowe (center) of York Town Primary School secured 1st place, alongside 2nd place awardee Arianna Small (left) of Mocho Primary School and 3rd place awardee Kelsie-Page Graham (right) of Mitchell Town Primary School. Also pictured is Donna Marie Brooks, Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Relations at Jamalco.
Contact: Nadene Newsome, Communications Specialist Tel: 986-2561 ext. 4433 or 577-9358 Email: nadene.newsome@jamalco.com
New Year, New Look for Comfort Hall Primary School
The Comfort Hall Primary and Infant School has kicked off the new year with a vibrant transformation, courtesy of Jamalco through its Jamalcoans in Action (J-Action) voluntary initiative. A team of Jamalco volunteers, alongside teachers and community members, collaborated to give the school’s infant department a much-needed facelift. This project marks the first J-Action initiative of the year and demonstrates Jamalco’s continued commitment to education and community development.
The renovation focused on repainting both the interior and exterior of the infant department, creating a bright and welcoming space for young learners. The project saw Jamalco volunteers dedicating their efforts to revitalizing the interior classrooms while community members worked on the building’s exterior. The initiative extended over several days to ensure that other areas, including the gates, play areas, and fencing, were also refreshed. Nadine Franklyn, representing the Cottage Police Station in Mile Gully also joined the team to lend her support.
Principal Cherene Nicholson expressed her heartfelt gratitude for Jamalco’s involvement. “This transformation was long overdue, and Jamalco stepped in to make it happen and we are most appreciative. The children will walk into a new environment that is conducive to learning, and I must ‘big up’ Jamalco for their help.”
The J-Action grant is valued at $300,000 and covered the cost of materials and labour needed for the renovation. The newly upgraded infant department is expected to have a lasting positive impact on students, fostering a brighter and more engaging environment for learning.
Jamalco’s J-ACTION initiative continues to highlight the company’s dedication to enhancing education and supporting community development, making a tangible difference in the lives of young learners and their communities.
In photo: Jamalco Employee, Sean-Dean Hutchinson paints a section of the Comfort Hall Primary School.
Contact: Nadene Newsome, Communications Specialist, Tel: 986-2561 ext. 4433 or 577-9358 Email: nadene.newsome@jamalco.com
Jamalco Appoints New Managing Director
Marvin Jackson is Jamalco’s new Managing Director. His appointment became effective on March 26, 2024. Mr. Jackson has oversight responsibility for all aspects of Jamalco’s operations. The announcement was made by Century’s Executive Vice President, Global Operations, Gunnar Guðlaugsson.
Mr. Jackson is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the bauxite alumina industry. He has served in various key leadership positions at West Indies Alumina Company (UC Rusal WINDALCO) and UC Rusal Alpart in Jamaica. His tenure as a General Manager at Norsk Hydro Brazil and Vice President and General Manager of Operations at First Bauxite LLC and Subsidiary Guyana Industrial Minerals (GINMIN) underscores his exceptional leadership skills and industry knowledge. During his career, Mr. Jackson has honed expertise in managing both low-pressure and high-pressure alumina refineries and bauxite mines which should prove beneficial to Jamalco. His career trajectory and wealth of expertise make him a valuable addition to Jamalco’s leadership team.
He succeeds Austin Mooney who demitted office earlier this month.
Jamalco Donates Computers to the Mile Gully High School
Computers valued at some $2m were officially handed over to Mile Gully High School under the company’s Computers in Schools Programme. The presentation exercise took place at the Mile Gully High School in Manchester.
In addressing the ceremony, Member of Parliament for Northwest Manchester, Mikhail Phillips applauded Jamalco for its commitment to Jamaica’s growth and development through consistent support of the community. The MP encouraged other donors to examine the needs of the community and target the development of human capital within communities.
In his remarks, Jamalco’s Managing Director, Marvin Jackson, urged the students to regard these computers as “instruments of empowerment and enlightenment. Let them ignite your curiosity, fuel your ambition, and propel you toward a future filled with promise and opportunity,” he stated. He commended the teachers, for their passion and dedication in shaping the minds of the students and noted that the donation of computers will support their effort at nurturing the next generation. “Together we are united in our commitment to education, innovation and the collective growth of our young people.”
Education Officer for Region 5, Sophia Brown-Sinclair, who represented the Ministry of Education, thanked Jamalco for “the excellent partnership which has resulted in the company equipping students for the technological era.” She also explained that this donation is in keeping with the Ministry’s Transforming Education for National Development (TREND) initiative which is designed to revolutionize the country’s educational system by improving performance at all levels of the education system.
Board Chairman, Miss Simone Scarlett, expressed gratitude to Jamalco for recognizing the needs of the school and showing foresight and vision by investing in the technological future of the students and the school.
Acting Principal of Mile Gully High School, Claudette Robinson-Shaw, expressed gratitude on behalf of the school for the gift of computers and a multimedia projector. She explained that the external examination pass rate will only get better for students sitting subjects such as Electronic Document Preparation Management (EDPM), AutoCAD as well as Building and Mechanical Engineering Drawing because of this donation.
Jamalco’s Computers in Schools programme began in 2016 and since then Jamalco has donated 200 computer tablets to 28 primary schools within their operating areas. In addition, many schools and community organizations have benefited from the programme which has also offered basic computer skills training to residents in its operating areas.
The Mile Gully Primary School and the Mocho Police also benefited from computer donations during separate presentations in the community.
Jamalco and Century Aluminum Awards Over $22 Million in Education Assistance
Some 500 students in Clarendon and Manchester are set to benefit from Jamalco’s education assistance valued at over $22 million during the new academic year. The back-to-school assistance is awarded to students at all levels of the education system. The announcement was made at the company’s annual scholarship awards presentation exercise held at the Wembley Centre of Excellence recently.
In his remarks, Guest Speaker, and Secretary General of the Jamaica Teachers Association, Dr. Mark Nicely, encouraged the students to embrace this period of learning while being extraordinary. “Do not be ordinary and fit into the crowd. Break records and seize opportunities,” he charged. Continuing, Dr. Nicely also appealed to the students to conduct themselves with high level of morals, values and decency, and also encouraged parents to support and invest in their children.
Managing Director at Jamalco, Marvin Jackson, in his remarks, reinforced Jamalco’s commitment to building the capacity of students in its operating areas through education. Mr. Jackson told the students that the assistance from Jamalco is not financial aid but an investment in their future “a vote of confidence in your potential to excel and make a positive impact in society,” he stated. Mr. Jackson also reminded the students of the value of their education, “it is the key to unlocking your dreams and transforming your lives. I encourage you to focus on your studies, strive for excellence, and aim to meet the 3.0 GPA requirement to benefit from this scholarship each year. Your academic success is crucial, and we believe in your ability to achieve it.”
Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer, Century Aluminum, Rob Hoffman also reiterated Century’s commitment to helping to educate the nation’s children. He announced the continuation of the Century Aluminum’s High Achievers Award for the 2nd year. The company awarded scholarships totaling $5.25 Million to 15 students. Each student will receive $350,000. “This generous support is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent, fostering academic excellence, and empowering our students to reach their full potential, “ Mr. Hoffman said.
Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Relations, Donna Marie Brooks, while congratulating the recipients, outlined that the company allocates about half of its community budget each year to education. “Our commitment to education is serious business and we are dedicated to empowering people and building their capacity,” she stated. Ms. Brooks outlined that nine Jamalco mentees will receive a scholarship valued at $2,250,000 while there are twenty one special grants totalling $2,520,000 and forty students will receive scholarships at a value of $8,000,000. In addition to the 70 tertiary students, there are 10 GSAT/PEP students who will receive bursaries valued at $40,000 each. Another 385 students from operating communities in Clarendon and Manchester who attend basic, primary, and high schools will receive book grants valued at some $3.85 million.
Student of G.C. Foster College and recipient, Briana Daley, in a testimonial outlined her challenging circumstances which could have inhibited her from continuing her education. She thanked Jamalco while explaining that “this support from Jamalco has strengthened my resolve to make the most of my education, to achieve my goals and to give back to my community of Mitchell town in a meaningful way.”
Jamalco’s education assistance programme began in 2008 and will continue for each student until the end of their tertiary education once they adhere to the criteria.
