Orville Deluke Daley, a first-year student at The University of the West Indies (The UWI), was named the top matriculant for 2023/2024, starting his first semester with 10 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects, and 13 Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination Unit under his belt.

The 19-year-old, pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in electronics and computer science, is on a full UWI Open scholarship. He is a past student of Jamaica College and was praised for his achievement at UWI’s Welcome and Matriculation Service.

“I am eternally grateful for the UWI Open Scholarship and being named ‘Top Matriculant’,” said Daley in a release from the university. “Glory be to God as I thank Him for family support,” he added.

Daley shared that growing up in the inner city of Waterhouse in Kingston, he was determined to break the cycle of economic hardships that plagued his family. He said that he understood there were challenges that came with pursuing higher education and was adamant that he would be the change that his family needed.

Now, he can proudly state that he is a first-generation university student, fulfilling his dreams of creating a better life. But most of all, he said he is excited to be an inspiration to others in the inner city.

“I must say that the greatest part of this [being selected top matriculant] is that I get the chance to be a role model for inner-city youth,” said Daley, emphasising that, “there is greatness in the ghetto.”

Addressing their son’s achievement, Lorraine Daley and Orville Daley Sr said they were extremely proud that their hard work and sacrifices paid off.

“It is simply amazing.” This is all his hard work. All we do as parents is to encourage him, and we thank God for His wondrous blessings,” said Lorraine.

The young scholar was also congratulated by the principal of Jamaica College, Wayne Robinson, who said Daley represented the best of the secondary institution and exemplifies the school’s highest traditions.

“From a humble background, he has excelled academically every step of the way, achieving lofty standards while remaining the ordinary, humble student. We have extremely high expectations [of Orville] and anticipate great accomplishments. Fervet opus in campis [Work is burning in the fields],” said Robinson.

Principal and pro-vice chancellor of The UWI, Professor Densil Williams, also congratulated Daley on his achievement. He said that the 19-year-old is an inspiration, and looks forward to the great things he will achieve.