The Tribune

COVID-19 turned the world upside down, closing schools to in-person learning, shutting down tourism and forcing countries to ramp up healthcare operations. But there is one thing it did not dampen – Bahamian students’ desire to go to college.

More than 600 applicants in the Bahamas applied for a Lyford Cay Foundations scholarship for studies outside of the country, according to a press release from the organisation.

According to executive director, Dr Nicola Virgill- Rolle, “While the number of applications is slightly down from prior years, interest in pursuing higher education both abroad and locally remains extremely strong.”

All applications are reviewed by an independent scholarship consultant and then further assessed through independent screening committees to ensure the integrity of the review process. The first-round for applications closed on March 15 while the second round of reviews closed on April 15. The complete process can take up to four months, a timeframe the Foundations is working toward reducing.

“All applications are considered for financial need as well as academic qualifications. However, we also make sure that there is a financial plan in place to fund costs not covered by the scholarship” said Dr Virgill-Rolle. “Additionally, we are continuously working on new scholarships. For example, through generous new gifts, we will be expanding our offerings of scholarships for studies at universities in Canada.”

Dr Virgill-Rolle expressed her gratitude to the donors, many of whom have consistently provided support to the Foundations.

Some 25-30 new Lyford Cay Foundations scholarships will be awarded for students to attend Canadian and American universities, with final notices going to successful candidates by mid-July. Another 25-30 students will benefit from ongoing scholarships.

Through annual disbursements since 1997, Lyford Cay Foundations has also provided just over $7m to University of The Bahamas (formerly College of The Bahamas) for scholarships, the Harry C Moore Library and study abroad programmes.