Reinforcing its commitment to creating a supportive workplace while investing in the education of Jamaica’s youth, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts has continued to recognise the academic achievements of employees’ children through its PEP Scholarship Programme and Back-to-School Book Initiative. Through the initiative, the company and the Iberostar Jamaica Staff Association awarded 15 PEP scholarships totalling JMD $625,000 and distributed 300 book vouchers valued at JMD $8,000 each, representing a combined investment of JMD $3,025,000 in the educational success of employees’ families.

The scholarship recipients, all children of Iberostar employees, attained scores of 320 (80 per cent) or higher in the 2026 Primary Exit Profile (PEP) Examination and were recognised for their outstanding academic achievement, perseverance and commitment to excellence. During the ceremony, students and their families were celebrated for the dedication that led to their success, underscoring the importance of hard work, discipline and a strong support system in achieving educational goals.

Under the scholarship programme, the top five recipients each received JMD $50,000 from Iberostar, while the Iberostar Jamaica Staff Association also awarded JMD $50,000 each to an additional five recipients. The remaining five scholarship recipients each received JMD $25,000, helping to ease the transition into high school while encouraging them to continue striving for academic excellence.

Complementing the scholarship programme, Iberostar also extended support to employees through its Back-to-School Book Initiative. Recognising that the start of a new school year often brings significant expenses for families, the initiative was designed to help offset the cost of purchasing essential textbooks and educational supplies.

As part of the programme, 300 book vouchers valued at JMD $8,000 each were distributed for children aged 3 to 17 years. These vouchers were redeemable at Henderson Bookstore for employees in the Montego Bay region, and Cat D’s Bookstore for employees in the Trelawny region. 

Modielle Calder, Director of Human Resources of Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica, said the initiative reflects Iberostar’s belief that investing in people extends beyond the workplace and includes supporting the educational aspirations of employees’ families.

“At Iberostar, we recognise that our employees’ families are also an important part of who we are. By celebrating students who have excelled academically while also providing practical back-to-school support for other families, we are investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers,” she stated. “Education opens doors, and we are proud to play a role in helping our employees’ children pursue their goals with confidence and the resources they need to succeed.”

The PEP Scholarship Programme and Back-to-School Book Initiative form part of Iberostar’s broader commitment to employee well-being, recognising that supporting families contributes to a more engaged and empowered workforce. Through initiatives that celebrate achievement and provide meaningful assistance, the company continues to foster a workplace culture built on care, opportunity and shared success.

“Success is built through consistent encouragement and access to opportunity. We hope these scholarships and book vouchers not only ease the financial burden on families but also inspire every student to continue working towards their dreams. When we invest in education, we are investing in the future of our employees, our communities and Jamaica as a whole,” Modielle Calder concluded.