Blue Cross of Jamaica has presented 18 prospective high school students with scholarships.

The scholarships were awarded based on the performances of the students in the recent Grade Six Assessment Test (GSAT).

Twelve of the scholarships were presented to children of subscribers on the Blue Cross health plan while the other six were granted to the children of Blue Cross employees, during a ceremony in St. Andrew on Friday.

This is 14th year that Blue Cross is providing scholarships for high school entrants.

David Garel, vice-president of sales and marketing at Blue Cross, said this has cost $22.5 million over the 14 years.

Mr. Garel congratulated the students on their achievement and noted that it was important that their families support them.

There are three boys among the 18 scholarship recipients this year.

Taylor concerned with ratio

Dr. Orville Taylor, lecturer of the University of the West Indies, who was the keynote speaker at the ceremony, said he was concerned about this ratio. "We have a problem ... if the ratio is as it is now, can you imagine what it will be like when they get to the university?"

He urged parents to be more responsible in carrying out their duties and urged students to believe in themselves and maintain a balanced between academics and sports.

"This is the beginning of the rest of your life, learn to treat other people how you want to be treated because there are always going to be people better or less than yourselves," said Dr. Taylor.