By S.Browne. Updated 9:25 a.m., Friday, August 14, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
Seventy-eight young Vincentians preparing to enter secondary school have received scholarships and bursaries through a long-running education support programme involving the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), the SVG Ex-Police Association and the St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Co-operative Credit Union.
The students were recognised at the organisations’ annual scholarship and bursary presentation ceremony on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the New Testament Church of God at Wilson Hill.
Held under the theme “Celebrating Achievements: Learning, Growing and Succeeding,” the ceremony continued a tradition of supporting the educational development of children of serving and former police officers.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Mrs Hannah Green-Harry congratulated the recipients and reminded them that achievement extends beyond grades, qualifications and professional status.
She encouraged the students to remain curious, embrace challenges and use their education to make a positive contribution to their families, communities and country.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Hesran Ballantyne delivered remarks on behalf of Commissioner of Police Enville Williams. He told the recipients that the awards recognised their achievements while also expressing confidence in their future potential.
ACP Ballantyne noted that the Police Scholarship Fund was established in 1958 and has supported generations of students. He said the partnership with the Police Co-operative Credit Union, which began in 2014, has helped to sustain and strengthen the programme.
As the students prepare for secondary school, Ballantyne encouraged them to seek help when necessary, choose their influences carefully and remain consistent in their efforts.
“A setback is information. Learn from it. Adjust. Try again,” he advised.
Vice-President of the Police Co-operative Credit Union Cecil Straker described each award as both recognition of hard work and an investment in future potential.
He urged the students to remain focused through difficult periods and to judge success not only by personal achievement, but also by the positive difference they make in the lives of others.
President of the SVG Ex-Police Association Lenroy Brewster similarly described the scholarships and bursaries as an investment in the recipients’ dreams, talents and potential.
He encouraged them to pursue academic excellence while developing character, discipline, resilience and a commitment to service.
The feature address was delivered by Republic Bank Manager and Team Leader for Corporate and Commercial, Kelton Henry.
Henry brought a personal connection to the ceremony, having previously benefited from a Police Scholarship. Reflecting on the support he received during his education, he explained how the programme contributed to his journey from scholarship recipient to banking professional.
He offered the students five principles to guide them as they progress: developing strong interpersonal skills and personal accountability, accepting constructive criticism, choosing the right company, maintaining a balanced lifestyle and remaining grounded in faith.
Speakers also acknowledged the role of parents, guardians, teachers and police families in helping the students reach this stage.
The ceremony reaffirmed the commitment of the RSVGPF, the SVG Ex-Police Association and the Police Co-operative Credit Union to education, youth development and support for families connected to the police service.
The RSVGPF congratulated the 78 recipients and encouraged them to approach secondary school ready to learn, grow and make full use of the opportunities available to them.
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