Young persons between the ages of 10 to 20 years old are encouraged to begin submitting applications for the 2016 Virgin Islands Emerging Fellow Awards.

The Virgin Islands Emerging Fellow Award is a grant aid programme administered by the Ministry of Education and Culture on an annual basis for young people who show exceptional promise in sports, the arts and/or academics.

Applications will be accepted until March 25, 2016. Successful applicants will be given financial support up to, but not exceeding $8,000 to attend and participate in substantive training and enrichment experiences during the 2016 summer vacation.

Applications should be submitted to the Ministry of Education and Culture with reference “Emerging Fellow Awards”, and the attention of Assistant Secretary and Desk Officer, Ms. Lorna Stevens.

Application criteria differ according to the area for which persons are applying. However they are categorised under four broad headings including evidence of achievement, quality of proposed activity or programme, contribution to the community, along with the quality and breadth of recommendations.

In addition to the application form, applicants must submit a short statement inclusive of a brief biography, two letters of recommendation, overview of proposed programme or activity, and proof of research and fees associated with said programme or activity.         

The award committee will review submissions between March 30, 2016 through April 1, 2016; and announce the recipients by April 8, 2016.

For more information, or to obtain an electronic copy of the application, contact Ms. Lorna Stevens at the Ministry of Education and Culture via telephone 468-3701 extension 3358 or email llstevens@gov.vg or email Education Officer Mr. Arthur Selwood at ArthurSelwood@gov.vg.

The Ministry of Education and Culture is committed to creating a “Culture of Excellence”.