In a transformative move to propel Jamaica into the digital age, NCB Foundation has announced a groundbreaking initiative offering J$20 million in grants. This new programme is designed to equip unemployed and underemployed Jamaicans with cutting-edge digital skills, setting the stage for a thriving online economy.
Collaborating once again with Internet Income Jamaica (IIJ), the initiative introduces an innovative curriculum that emphasizes in-demand skills such as artificial intelligence (AI) and digital content creation. Participants will benefit from live, interactive training sessions and receive one-on-one guidance from industry experts who bring years of experience to the table.
In a departure from previous efforts, this year’s programme has broadened its reach by partnering with several key organisations. These include Project STAR, Jamaica Society for the Blind, Abilities Foundation, and The Domestic Violence Intervention Workshop led by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Novelette Grant. According to Andrew Pairman, Deputy Chair of NCB Foundation, this expanded collaboration is a vital step towards making the digital economy accessible to all segments of society. “By uniting with organisations that advocate for underserved communities, we are amplifying our impact and paving the way for meaningful, inclusive growth,” he remarked.
The success of the initiative is already evident. In 2024, 1,745 graduates collectively earned nearly J$24 million within just two months, a testament to the transformative power of digital upskilling. Alicia Lyttle, Founder of IIJ, expressed her enthusiasm: “Digital upskilling, particularly in AI, is the cornerstone of staying competitive today. Our partnership with NCB Foundation is about ensuring that every Jamaican has the chance to thrive in this dynamic, technology-driven world.”
Applications are now open, with the deadline set for Sunday, March 16, 2025. Jamaicans ready to embrace new opportunities are encouraged to apply at ncbscholarships.com/level-up-programme.
