Shaniqua Hunte is the 2021 recipient of a scholarship from the Foundation School Old Scholars Scholarship Fund (FSOSSF). The recent graduate of the Christ Church Foundation School is pursuing an undergraduate degree at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus in Banking & Finance.
The presentation of the scholarship was done in January 2022 during the online assembly of the 6th form students at the Church Hill, Christ Church-based institution.
“The lessons taught by my alma mater will serve as a guide, to uphold the trust given to me by The Fund, to pursue my endeavours whether academic, professional or otherwise.
I aim to align my passion for helping others with the skills I will develop in pursuit of my career,” Hunte stated Principal David McCarthy thanked the Board of Trustees of The Fund, recognising the contributions being made by old scholars through the Fund and its importance in helping students as well as motivating future graduates of the Christ Church Foundation School to do well. He also applauded the efforts of The Fund and the fact that it has been in existence for over seven years.
The Scholarship Fund is a registered charity and began in 2015 to assist students of Christ Church Foundation School who were unable to enroll at the University of the West Indies (UWI) because of financial constraints. At that time students were required to fund the tuition costs associated with their course of study.
Notwithstanding the policy has changed whereby Barbadian students no longer need to pay directly for their tertiary education, the Fund has continued its financial commitment to qualifying students. Scholarship winners have seen the scholarship as a blessing and have used it as inspiration to do well in their studies. This is exemplified by the first four graduates of UWI all achieving honours (two First Class).
Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Fund, Judith Gill in her remarks stated, “The Fund represents old scholars who have made contributions over the years and have as we say, ‘put their money where their mouth is.’ They believe in you and are willing to support your success.”
Gill reminded students that the scholarship is designed to assist students who have achieved excellence, contributed to school life and are in financial need.
She said that 14 students have benefitted so far for a total disbursement of BDS$138,000. As long as awardees maintain an acceptable grade point average, the scholarships are renewed annually for three years.
The scholarship is available to graduating student of the Christ Church Foundation School (not exceeding four annually) who meet the criteria.
The awards are tenable at any one of the three campuses of UWI in the areas of science, technology, and accounting. The Barbados Community College was also included but only for the four-year degree program in nursing.
Any old scholar who is interested in contributing to the fund may do so directly through The Fund’s bank account with Republic Bank, Wildey Branch, Account # 018316482001. Let FSOSSF know when you make a contribution directly. You may also make a contribution through the treasurer (Cell no.: 246-262-1202), or email the Fund for further information at fsossf.bb@gmail.com.
