Calibishie, Dominica – September 30, 2024
Ava Liburd, a six-year-old student from the Calibishie Primary School, has been awarded the Team Unity Lifetime Academic Scholarship (TULAS), valued at XCD $1,000,000. This groundbreaking scholarship is channeled through the H.O.P.E. (Helping Ordinary People Everywhere) organization and marks a historic milestone for both Ava and her community.
The official presentation of the scholarship took place on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, and represents the first disbursement of funds for the 2024 school year. TULAS was originally introduced during the launch of Team Unity Dominica (TUD) in Calibishie on August 12, 2022. This scholarship, designed to cover the entire duration of Ava’s academic journey, is contingent on maintaining a good academic standing and actively participating in community activities.
A Scholarship for Academic Merit and Social Impact
The scholarship amount was calculated to cover all educational expenses throughout Ava’s academic life. To maintain eligibility, Ava must uphold a positive grade-point average and volunteer her time for developmental causes in her community. Family support, academic merit, and proven financial need were key factors in selecting the scholarship recipient. The selection process was guided by staff members of the Calibishie Government School, in partnership with Team Unity Dominica, H.O.P.E., and the broader Dominican community.
TUD leader Carlos Charles expressed his delight with the partnership, emphasizing, “The children are our future, and the future is now.” He highlighted that this award reflects a collaborative effort between various stakeholders to provide opportunities for future generations of Dominicans.
Strengthening Education and Community Development
The scholarship agreement was officially signed by the granting organization, Team Unity Dominica, represented by H.O.P.E., and Ava’s parents, Letisha Liburd and Ian George. This generous one-off scholarship is non-partisan and non-transferable. The initiative underscores the importance of education as a pillar of Dominican society and reaffirms TUD’s commitment to promoting social, political, and economic reform.
With Ava as the first recipient of TULAS, the scholarship sets a precedent for the community, inspiring young Dominicans to strive for academic excellence while contributing to the development of their society.
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