Government has awarded almost $1 million in grants to students with many of them thanking their lucky stars for the money.

"I feel blessed being given the opportunity to study abroad and further my education," said scholarship recipient Jonathan Ball. "I think it will prepare me so when I come back to Bermuda I am well equipped for the reinsurance industry."

Thirty-seven students were given the awards at a special ceremony at Camden House in the Botanical Gardens last week.

Some like Erin Jackson, Michelle Kelly, Sean Crockwell, Christie O'Doherty, Michelle Camara, Donovan Williams and Janeiro Watts were given full scholarships, which pay for tuition, room and board and even air fare for the students.

Others, like Mr. Ball who will attend City University in London this October, were given between $7,500 and $15,000 to further their education.

His father, Edward, spoke to The Royal Gazette about the achievement saying: "I am thankful for what this country has done for him and I am looking forward to the day when he can give back and help someone else to achieve their goals."

Present at the awards ceremony was former Acting Minister of Education Kim Wilson, who encouraged the awardees to become contributing members of the community.

She said: "Regardless of your future educational pursuits and aspirations, you are Bermuda's future who will no doubt become invaluable assets to our Island. Your professional expertise is needed and your future contributions will play an integral role in our Island's continual prosperity.

"Congratulations to each and every one of you. I wish you the best that life has to offer," she added.

Recipients of the teacher training award include: Sheldon Fox, Dionne Greene and Kristen Vogt.

Mature student award recipients include: Judith Anderson, Njeri Asha, Ralph Bassett, Ralph Furbert, Martha Ratteray Frith and Lenamay Smith.

First time recipients of Government student loans include: Chante Anderson, Jonathan Ball, Jordan Commissiong, Glennisha DeShields, Shaun Dill, Tierney Gibbons, Waynette Hollis, Jonae Jervis, Queenicia Joell, Danyel Mallory, Khalilah Mills, Bradley Mitchell, Kenisha Pough, Glenisha Robinson, Javone Rogers, Kimberlee Simmons, Akil Simmons, Vernesha Simmons, Coyatito Smith, Kara Smith and Keitha Trott.