Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security, in partnership with the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA), has launched a scholarship programme to support the children of Jamaican farm workers participating in the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP) in Ontario, Canada.
The grant, valued at Can$10,000, will assist 10 children or wards of current SAWP workers by helping to offset educational and school-related expenses. Each successful recipient will receive $115,000 to cover items such as books, uniforms, examination fees, transportation and lunch.
Speaking at the launch held Thursday (February 5) at the ministry’s North Street office in Kingston, Portfolio Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. welcomed the initiative and underscored the wider impact of education.
“The thing about education is that it has a multiplier effect. That’s what we want from this scholarship, to have a positive multiplier effect echoing across the communities so that these 10 scholarships will multiply into hundreds of persons being impacted to want to do more. I believe that because it is blessed, this investment is going to be a blessing to many,” Minister Charles Jr. said.
He noted that the scholarship reflects the shared vision of the ministry and OFVGA to demonstrate the link between worker welfare, education and opportunity.
The initiative also marks the 60-year partnership between Jamaica and Canada under the SAWP, which addresses labour shortages in Canada’s agricultural sector while providing employment opportunities for Jamaican workers.
Minister Charles Jr. said the new scholarship programme symbolises the strength and longevity of that relationship.
“That’s why we see this as a symbol of the strength and the enduring and lasting relationship that I believe will stand another 60 years. Things are changing… but I believe that once we continue to have conversations, plan, strategise, be agile… we will be able to formulate and adjust to make sure that this programme continues to be relevant,” he said.
The scholarship is open to children or wards of current SAWP workers who have participated in the programme in Ontario for at least three consecutive years and remained with the same employer during that period. Eligible students must be enrolled in a recognised secondary institution and maintain at least a ‘B’ average on their most recent report card. Applicants must not have previously benefited from the JN Money Fields of Opportunity Scholarship.
Supporting documents required include proof of the worker’s participation with the same Ontario employer, a birth certificate or proof of guardianship for the student, and the student’s report card.
OFVGA Communications Adviser Benjamin Murray said the scholarship reflects the association’s appreciation for Jamaican workers and their families.
“The workers’ hard work and commitment mean a great deal to our farms and our communities back home. This scholarship is something we’re extremely proud of…, supporting a participant’s child and continuing their education is a meaningful way for us to give back, while also recognising the sacrifices that these families and workers have to make year after year,” Murray said.
Applications for the OFVGA Scholarship Programme open April 1, 2026 and close June 30, 2026, with awards to be granted for the 2026/2027 academic year.
For further information, persons may contact the ministry’s Family Services Unit at 876-676-5557 or 876-676-5659.
