The official opening of the Winston Roberts/NCB Foundation Science Centre brought pride and joy to the hundreds gathered to celebrate a milestone achievement which became a reality after just four years. The project which started in 2007, now gives students the opportunity to learn in a suitably equipped and practical environment.
“It is heartwarming to know that this evening we are celebrating something positive. Ardenne High School, the Board, the Staff and Parents say thank you to Mr. Michael Lee Chin and the NCB Foundation and to all contributors for this marvelous accomplishment of the Winston Roberts/NCB Foundation Science Centre. This will go a far way in enhancing the teaching and learning of science in Ardenne High School and thereby in Jamaica,” expressed Esther Tyson, Principal, Ardenne High School during her address to the gathering..
The building which cost $30M to be constructed was made possible through various fundraising activities such as walkathons, block drives, benefit performances of plays and concerts. However, it was the success of Ardenne High School’s Daniel Thomas, the 2004 top science student in the Caribbean that inspired Michael Lee-Chin, Chairman, NCB Jamaica Limited to assist in funding the state-of-the-art science centre by matching funds up to $15 M. This contribution made it possible for the construction of the building to commence in 2007.
“NCB’s investment in Ardenne High School is just one example of the Bank’s commitment to ensuring that our young people are equipped with the right tools, skills-set and knowledge to become responsible citizens of this great nation,” expressed Michael Lee Chin Chairman, NCB Jamaica Limited and guest speaker at the opening ceremony. Continuing Lee Chin asserted that “this science centre that we see here today is as a result of a great partnership and shared focus which now stands as a testimony that if we dream together and work together we can make it a reality.”
Elaine Ralston, Director, Region 1, Ministry of Education, expressed special thanks to the NCB Foundation for its role in nation building not only for Ardenne High School but also for other institutions across the island. In her address, she also spoke of how highly recommended Ardenne High School was for students selecting their choices for secondary education. She thanked all stakeholders who were involved in the project, pointing to the importance of working together to improve Jamaica’s educational system.
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