National Rums announces new charity initiative, donates $1 million for STEM scholarships.

National Rums of Jamaica has recently launched the NRJ Foundation, its charitable arm aimed at giving back to the communities where the company operates. The foundation’s first initiative is the NRJ Foundation Scholarship, which was officially announced during the launch event on March 28, 2024. The foundation has a history of working on various infrastructure projects and collaborating with public and private entities to enhance community areas. The establishment of the foundation as a separate entity will allow the organization to formalize and expand its outreach efforts in Clarendon, Trelawny, and Innswood, St. Catherine.

At the launch event held at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, representatives of the NRJ Foundation highlighted that its future projects will focus on driving social change in healthcare, infrastructure, and education. The foundation’s first endeavor, the NRJ Foundation Scholarship, will award $500,000 to two students pursuing undergraduate degrees in STEM fields at the University of the West Indies, Caribbean Maritime University, and University of Technology in Jamaica. The Chairperson and Director, Martha Miller, expressed the hope that the scholarship will address the need for funding and support for community members seeking tertiary education, as well as provide more opportunities for internships in Engineering and Management.

During the launch event, Minister of Education and Youth, Fayval Williams, commended the NRJ Foundation for establishing the scholarship, recognizing the financial challenges faced by students pursuing higher education. She emphasized the importance of corporate social initiatives like the NRJ Foundation Scholarship in supporting education and workforce development. The foundation’s objectives align with the Ministry’s focus on technical vocational education and training programs in STEM fields. Applications for the scholarship will open in June and close in July of the same year. The foundation also announced plans for a back-to-school fair for communities in Trelawny, Clarendon, and St. Catherine.

Member of Parliaments from Trelawny Northern, Tova Hamilton, and Clarendon South Eastern, Pearnel Charles Jr., praised the NRJ Foundation Scholarship and other initiatives as examples of expanded support for the communities. The foundation aims to promote the well-being of all Jamaican citizens for the advancement of the nation. Directors of the NRJ Foundation include Martha Miller, Michael Dunkley, and Natasha Broodie. The launch of the foundation signifies a commitment to formalizing and enhancing community outreach efforts and providing resources and opportunities for education and skill development in underprivileged areas. The NRJ Foundation Scholarship and upcoming projects reflect the organization’s dedication to making a positive impact on society.