A ceremony was held to recognise 15 recipients of scholarships aimed at helping young Bermudians to enter Bermuda’s workforce.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Labour, addressed the awardees last Thursday on the grounds of the Cabinet Office.

The Department of Workforce Development committed $400,000 towards local and overseas scholarships.

This year’s recipients are studying medicine, architecture, information technology, radiology, sonography, culinary arts, motor vehicle technology, environmental science, business, dentistry, electrical engineering, and biology.

Mr Hayward said: “I congratulate all of this year’s Department of Workforce Development scholarship recipients.

“This year, we had 99 persons apply for the overseas award alone, which gave the scholarship committee the daunting task of selecting the scholarship recipients.

“However, after a rigorous vetting process, the final recipients were chosen. In considering the volume of applicants, all recipients of the overseas scholarships should be incredibly proud of their accomplishments.

“As a bonus this year, all recipients can partake in a paid internship in their field of study, obtaining invaluable industry experience.”

The nine overseas awards are valued at up to $10,000 annually for no more than four years contingent on the student maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.7/B- per semester, while the six local awards are for full tuition at Bermuda College on the condition of the student maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.67/B- per semester.

Mr Hayward added: “This government remains committed to helping educate our students to achieve their career goals.

“Education is key to the success of our country. Despite funding challenges the government has not wavered on our commitment to assist our youth with achieving their career goals.

“I encourage you to make the most of your educational experience and on completion of your studies, I ask that you to return home and give back to our community.”

This year’s scholarship recipients and their course of study are as follows:

Jalen Currin: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University.

Danielle Foote: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture at Savannah College of Art & Design.

Sacara Phillips: Charter Foundation Programme (of the Doctor of Medicine Programme) at St George’s University School of Medicine.

Zyair Scott: Associate of Radiologic Technology at Keiser University.

Matthew Sinclair: Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at the University School of Limerick School of Medicine.

Chinzae Smith: General-Vascular Sonopgraphy at AdventHealth University.

Michaelangelo Smith: Automotive Technician Programme at Lincoln Technical Institute.

Jyhair Tucker-Bell: Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering at Florida International University.

Ashleigh Wilson: Interior Design BA (Hons) with International Incorporated Bachelor Programme at De Montfort University.

Lauren Burchall: Bachelor of Business Administration at Bermuda College (in association with Mount Saint Vincent University).

Kaelin Paynter: Associate of Applied Science (Motor Vehicle Technology) at Bermuda College.

Jenico Sealey: Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Course at Bermuda College.

Reihonna Lema: Associates of Arts (Business Administration) at Bermuda College.

Naphtali Smith: Diploma in Culinary Arts at Bermuda College.

Te-Jah Trott: Associate of Science (Nursing) at Bermuda College.