Mayaro’s future filled with ‘Brighter Prospects’

A total of 58 students, accompanied by parents and well-wishers, attended the function which formed part of the wider ‘Brighter Prospects’ Scholarship Programme pioneered and fully funded by energy company bpTT.

The “A” Level component of the programme offers scholarships to students from Mayaro who qualify to pursue studies at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Exam (CAPE) level. It also provides them with additional support to fulfil their educational potential.

The programme represents a partnership between bpTT and the Mayaro Past Pupils Association (MPPA), a community-based organisation which assists in identifying the students.

Linkages are established with the students to monitor their progress and offer any assistance they may require as they pursue their academic goals.

Ronda Francis, Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, bpTT, inspired the students to even further achievement.

“You have travelled far in your educational journey and we are full of pride at your accomplishments.

“However, you still have some way to go — keep progressing. Work hard to achieve a better status in life, a better standard of living and a better future for Mayaro.”

Francis affirmed bpTT’s commitment to the students: “bpTT will continue assisting ‘A’ Level students, and right now we have 156 tertiary level students receiving assistance through the Brighter Prospects programme as well. I want you to know that even after ‘A’ levels, bpTT will still be here to assist you to achieve your goals even further.”

President of the MPPA, Oliver Alexander, told the students : “Today is really a happy day for me. I look back at 2004 and I can remember the ‘Top 20’ students honoured in the Mayaro SEA Awards. I am so proud to say that five years later, most of those students are here today, and are progressing to CAPE. As you all move forward in your educational pursuits, so too will the community of Mayaro move forward, carried proudly on your accomplished shoulders.”

ector of Hydro Tech Limited, a Mayaro-based energy sector service company, gave greetings on behalf of the community.
“This Brighter Prospects programme is truly a wonderful initiative and each of you is being given the opportunity of a lifetime. With education, the sky is the limit and, in a few years when you complete your studies, I look forward to hiring some of you bright prospects,” Rocke said.

Cherril Sobers, bpTT’s Social Investment Advisor, congratulated the students for their ambition and drive to succeed and reminded them that one of the vital components of the programme was the aspect of community volunteerism. She urged them to work with bpTT and the MPPA to find ways in which they could give back to their communities and expand the reach and benefit of the scholarships.

Avielle Cooper, who is pursuing her ‘A’ Level education at Naparima Girls’ High School, delivered a testimonial on behalf of her fellow students.
“Brighter Prospects is a fitting name because it is a true reflection of who we are. We cannot give enough gratitude to all of those who supported us including our parents, teachers, the MPPA and bpTT — you have all helped us to reach this stage. We believe in ourselves because you believe in us. We are here to make a commitment to you — we will strive for perfection and, in doing so, we will attain excellence for ourselves and for Mayaro,” she said.