The 2021 NCB Foundation scholarship recipients are all pursuing degrees in digital programmes. There are 14 chosen scholars this year, one from each parish, and the focus on digital for this year’s scholarship and grant programme seeks to empower Jamaicans to create digital solutions that solve local and global challenges, become financially independent and literate, and be resilient in an increasingly volatile, uncertain and complex world.
This week we start highlighting a few of the recipients, with the hope of inciting a level of hope amongst students who may be struggling, or those who may be interested in pursuing a digital career, but need some reassurance and inspiration.
Digital careers present students with an opportunity to learn to adapt and be agents of change within Jamaica’s digital transformation.
Meet Martin Bartley.
MARTIN Bartley is from Bombay, Manchester. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science at The University of the West Indies.
“I am a charismatic, hard-working, honest individual with astonishing leadership skills,” he said, when we asked how he would introduce himself to the world. “I am a Christian individual with strong morals and the drive to continuously push myself to be the best that I can be.”
In the next five years, Bartley sees himself as a well-established software engineer, “one who is a role model to many others and someone who inspires others to do their best to achieve their goals. I see myself in high positions; to not just to be a tail, but be at the head at everything I do.”
C&E: What sets you apart from other students in other disciplines?
MB: The difference between myself and other students in other disciplines is my ability to think critically. Problem-solving is a crucial part of the computer science field, and so my logical and critical thinking skills are continuously being sharpened, making me stand out from the crowd. A very important skill to have indeed.
C&E: Why did you choose to do the degree you’re doing now?
MB: I chose to pursue this degree because of my fascination with the technological industry. My curiosity to learn more in this field gives me the determination and the drive to do my best. I have a passion for computing, and I have no problem with spending the rest of my life doing it as a job.
C&E: Who or what would you say is your biggest motivator?
MB: My biggest motivators are my parents. They have sacrificed so much to get me to where I am today, both financially and mentally. And so, in the future, even though I won’t be able to come close to all that they have done for me, I want to make them be able to live comfortably and happily, as some sort of requital for the years they have dedicated to raising me.
C&E: How did you gain an interest in your area, and what industry do you want to pursue post-graduation?
MB: I gained an interest in this field when I looked around and saw the continuous evolution of technology in the world. Every year, new technology is developed, and old technology is refined and perfected. I became fascinated with this and decided that I want to grow along with the industry. When I …….