Government has allocated $233 million to the Jamaica Values and Attitudes (JAMVAT) programme this fiscal year.

This is an increase of $100 million over the $133 million spent in 2015/16.

Minister of State for Education, Youth and Information, Hon. Floyd Green made the disclosure in his contribution to the 2016/17 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on June 8.

He said that JAMVAT plays a vital role in the development of various areas of society.

Under the programme students receive assistance to finance their tertiary education. The Government undertakes 30 per cent of the student’s tuition cost, not exceeding $350, 000 per annum. In return, the student participates in the development of the nation’s social capital through contribution of 200 hours of public service.

Just over 4,000 students benefit from the programme each year. Students attending 33 institutions are involved in the initiative.

JAMVAT aims to ensure that all qualified students will continue to have access to tertiary education regardless of their financial status; and to instill within them, a sense of civic responsibility, while encouraging positive values and attitudes towards nation building.

Source: Jamaica Information Service