The UWI Township Scholarship
The UWI Township Scholarship Programme, established by the Mona Social Services/UWI Community Film Project (MSS/UWICFP) in 2006, provides deserving youth from communities such as Hermitage, Goldsmith Villa, August Town, Bedward Gardens, and Glendevon with access to tertiary education at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona. Since its inception, the programme has invested over JA$35 million, supporting 43 graduates, with over 90% receiving honours degrees. These graduates have advanced to make significant contributions in both public and private sectors across Jamaica.
The scholarship provides financial support and also empowers recipients through personal development sessions. These sessions cover topics which include emotional intelligence, networking skills, and navigating university life, equipping scholars with essential life skills that enhance their academic experience. The programme reflects UWI’s commitment to nurturing students’ potential and fostering their personal and professional growth as they contribute to Jamaica’s socio-economic development.
Business Development Lab
In November 2022, in collaboration with The UWI Centre for Disability Studies, we hosted a five-day Business Development Lab for twelve Cheshire Village residents, living with disabilities. They received training on essential entrepreneurial skills such as market research, business idea generation, digital marketing, and customer service. The program also included a practical jewellery-making session, giving participants a hands-on experience they have since applied in their businesses. The closing ceremony was attended by UWI representatives, external stakeholders, and family members, where certificates of participation were awarded.
In March, we expanded the initiative with a five-day Business Lab attended by 31 business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs from St. Catherine, Clarendon, St. Thomas, Kingston, and St. Andrew. Using a Young Americas Business Trust (YABT) inspired training model, attendees learned how to take a business idea from concept to execution. At the closing ceremony and business exposition, participants expressed how enjoyable, informative, and valuable the sessions were for their entrepreneurial journeys. These labs underscore our commitment to equipping underserved communities with the tools and skills necessary for personal and professional growth.
Annual Back-to-School Treat
The UWI Centre for Community Outreach and Development (UWICOOD) hosts an annual Back-to-School Treat to support students from several neighbouring communities, including August Town, Hermitage, African Garden, Bedward Garden, Goldsmith Villa, Mona Common, Standpipe, and Tavern. Through this initiative, primary and high school students receive essential back-to-school supplies and personal hygiene items, easing the financial burden on families as they prepare for the new school term.
In addition to providing school materials, the event often includes health services such as eye screenings and wellness sessions, where students learn about safety and health practices. The Back-to-School Treat reflects UWICCOD’s ongoing commitment to community development and the well-being of local families, helping to ensure that students are well-prepared and equipped for success.
YEEP Summer Camp
The UWI Centre for Community Outreach and Development (UWICCOD) organises the annual Youth Enrichment and Empowerment Programme (YEEP) to support youth development in communities near the UWI Mona campus. Designed to improve self-esteem, confidence, and life skills, the programme engages participants through sports, life-skills sessions, arts and crafts, and more.
Guided by experienced mentors the sessions focus on personal development, leadership, teamwork, and collaboration. Fostering camaraderie and mutual respect, YEEP helps participants build essential life skills and encourages positive peer interactions.
This initiative reflects UWICCOD’s dedication to empowering young people and promoting personal growth within their communities.
Peace Monitor Programme
The UWI Centre for Community Outreach and Development (UWICCOD) runs a Peace Monitor Programme (PMP) that fosters personal growth and empowers students by equipping them with essential life skills. The programme targets students in grades four to six, offering monthly life-skills sessions that cover topics such as effective communication, goal setting, self-respect, respect for authority, building self-esteem, and conflict and anger management.
Facilitated by diverse speakers, the PMP aims to promote a culture of peace within schools, helping students navigate challenges with confidence and resilience. Through personal development, the initiative empowers young minds to contribute positively to their communities. The Peace Monitor Programme is part of UWICCOD’s commitment to nurturing holistic development and fostering positive, peaceful environments in educational settings.
Parenting Sessions
The Mona Social Services/UWI Community Film Project (MSS/UWICFP) supports parents in the Glendevon community of St. James through ongoing parenting sessions and initiatives. These sessions, often held in collaboration with local schools, aim to empower parents by promoting positive parenting, discipline, and community involvement.
In recognition of their contributions to their children’s education and the wider community, parents are acknowledged for their efforts and commitment. The sessions highlight the importance of creating a supportive “village” of diverse skills and resources, encouraging collaboration between parents, educators, and community members to foster positive outcomes.
This initiative is part of MSS/UWICFP’s broader mission to strengthen families and promote community development through targeted interventions.