Guardian Life Limited through its philanthropic arm, the Guardian Group Foundation, continues to demonstrate its commitment to education through various initiatives, which focus on academic development.

Recently, the Foundation supported the Spanish Town-based Phillippo Baptist Skills Training and Hospitality Education Outreach Programme by providing nearly J$2-million worth of computers and kitchen equipment. The programme is a vital initiative that seeks to enhance skills training facilities in the community.

In recognising the importance of the programme, Foundation handed over eight desktop computers, one Sierra Range 36-inch LPG commercial stove and oven, one Frigidaire 15-cubic foot chest freezer, and a Frigidaire 20-cubic foot refrigerator.

Cluster Coordinator at Phillippo Baptist Skills Training Centre Nadine Leachman, thanked the Guardian Group Foundation for being a good corporate citizen, offering the opportunity for renewal, and changing lives.

She noted that Phillippo is located in a community of underserved persons, and the donation will significantly impact the church’s outreach ministry.

“The donation will help to develop marketable skills of participants, allowing them to meet occupational standards, get certified, become global citizens through this exposure, and get employment giving them a level of independence,” said Ms. Leachman.

She noted especially that the donation of the eight computers will allow participants to complete a mandatory computer-related programme at the centre, as previously, they had to go elsewhere at great inconvenience, to source a computer.

Guardian Life Sales Advisor Noel Codling said it’s hoped the new equipment will aid in improving the learning environment for the training centre and help students develop the skills to succeed in the hospitality industry.

Mr. Codling highlighted the Foundation's focus on academic development and its belief in supporting programmes that help students develop their full potential and become better equipped to face the challenges of life.

He noted one of the Foundation’s most notable contribution to the education system in 2021, the Device for A Child partnership with the Ministry of Education,a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Guardian Group Foundation invested J$5-million for the purchase of laptops and tablets for students in need, allowing them to continue their education remotely during the pandemic.

For the 2022/2023 academic year, the Foundation also donated over J$6.7 million through its Scholarships and Grants Programme to support students in their quest for further education.