NCCU Integrates IWPS and CPS into SOAR Program

The Nevis Cooperative Credit Union Limited (NCCU) has embarked on a significant educational initiative, the SOAR (Schools Outreach Assistance and Rewards) program, designed to provide sustained support and engagement to all public primary schools on the island of Nevis. This multi-year commitment aims to foster academic excellence, encourage student participation, and strengthen the connection between the credit union and the local community. The program’s core element, the “Adopt-a-School” initiative, was launched in late 2024, marking the beginning of a four-year cycle of support that will rotate among all primary schools on Nevis. This structured approach ensures that every school receives a dedicated year of focused attention, maximizing the impact of the program’s resources and activities. The Ivor Walters Primary School and the Charlestown Primary School have been selected as the first beneficiaries of the “Adopt-a-School” initiative for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The official adoption ceremonies at the two schools marked the commencement of a year-long partnership between NCCU and the schools. The SOAR team visited both campuses to formally launch the initiative, underscoring the credit union’s commitment to active involvement in the educational development of Nevisian youth. The principals of both schools, Serena Browne of Ivor Walters Primary and Cheryl Haynes of Charlestown Primary, warmly welcomed the initiative, expressing their gratitude for NCCU’s support and recognizing the potential benefits for their students. Their enthusiastic reception highlights the shared vision between the schools and the credit union in creating a nurturing and enriching learning environment for the students.

Following the formal ceremonies, the SOAR team engaged the students in interactive activities designed to introduce the program and its objectives. These activities provided a fun and engaging way for the students to learn about the SOAR program and its potential impact on their educational journey. The students actively participated, demonstrating their enthusiasm and eagerness to be part of this new initiative. The interactive sessions also incorporated a question-and-answer segment about the SOAR program, allowing students to test their understanding and win prizes courtesy of NCCU. This approach not only reinforced learning but also fostered a sense of excitement and anticipation for the opportunities that the SOAR program would offer.

The SOAR program is structured around a four-year rotational cycle, ensuring that each public primary school on Nevis receives a dedicated year of focused engagement and support. This carefully planned approach allows NCCU to distribute its resources effectively and maximize the impact of its outreach efforts across the island. By rotating the support among all schools, the program aims to create a level playing field, providing each school with a dedicated period of enhanced resources and opportunities. This equitable distribution of resources underscores NCCU’s commitment to fostering educational development across the island and ensuring that all students have access to enriching learning experiences.

The “Adopt-a-School” initiative, a core component of the SOAR program, represents a significant investment in the future of Nevisian youth. It signifies NCCU’s commitment to going beyond traditional financial services and actively contributing to the social and educational development of the community. The program is designed to provide not only financial assistance but also valuable resources, mentorship, and educational opportunities for students. This holistic approach recognizes that education is a multifaceted process requiring a supportive environment, both inside and outside the classroom.

By partnering with the schools, NCCU aims to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of students, fostering a culture of learning and achievement. The SOAR program embodies the credit union’s belief in the transformative power of education and its potential to empower individuals and uplift communities. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to community development, recognizing that investing in education is an investment in the future of Nevis. The program’s structured approach, combined with the active engagement of both the credit union and the schools, sets the stage for a successful partnership with the potential to significantly impact the educational landscape of Nevis.