THA secretary proud of scholarship amid pandemic

KINNESHA GEORGE-HARRY

THA Secretary of Education, Innovation and Energy Marslyn Melville-Jack has given commendations to Treverra James, the lone Tobago student to receive a national open scholarship at Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).

On Thursday, Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsy-Dolly announced that Tobago had one national open scholarship recipient, hailing from Bishop’s High School.

Melville Jack told Newsday, “I join with all educators, particularly those at Bishop's High School, in extending heartiest congratulations to Treverra James, Tobago’s lone recipient of an open scholarship, for her outstanding performance at the CAPE examinations 2020. We also offer congratulations to her parents, Sherra and Trevor James, as well as all her teachers for the nurturing of this exceptional talent.”

The secretary said she was glad that Tobago was able to achieve the open scholarship amidst the challenges caused by the covid19 pandemic and resulting shift to online teaching platforms.

Melville-Jack said, “I am simply elated that despite the social and mental challenges that our students faced in preparing for examinations during an unprecedented pandemic, they were still able to excel academically.”

The secretary had high praise for James and wished her well in her future studies.

“Hard work, determination to excel and faith in God are key in achieving great success. All of Tobago wish you continued academic excellence in your future endeavours.”

She also had some advice for all other students.

“Remain focused, work hard, go the extra mile in obtaining additional information about your subject matter through research. Maintain balance in all your activities and exhibit confidence in yourself and your God.”

Principal of the Bishop’s High School Cindy Ramnarine said the news that James was a scholarship winner came as no surprise. Ramnarine noted that her achievement stands as a testament of what community-type support can accomplish.

She said James’s parents have always been supportive and commended her staff who stepped forward and accepted the challenge to pursue food and nutrition at the CAPE Level. It was the first time the school offered food and nutrition as a CAPE subject.

James, who aspiries to be a dietieician, told Newsday on Friday, "I was the only student at that time. It was very nerve-racking, But I had the support from my teachers, from my principal; they were always there to guide me, they provided a lot of support, a lot of information.”