85 Bright Minds Handed a Ticket to Higher Education 

Eighty-five students are now closer to their education goals, with financial help coming directly from the Social Security Board (SSB).

The students were recognised this morning during the SSB’s 2026 Scholarship Award Ceremony, as the institution marked the 25th anniversary of its scholarship programme under the theme, “Empowering Future Generations through Education.”

Communications and Public Relations Manager Vanessa Vellos said this year carried extra weight. “Today we are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Social Security Board’s scholarship award programme. It’s not just a regular scholarship award ceremony. We’re celebrating 25 years of giving back.” 

Of 200 applications received this year, 64 students earned associate-level scholarships and 21 received high school scholarships. 

“Every investment that we have made in a scholarship means that SSB has invested in the future workforce at that point in time moving forward, basically contributing towards the development of Belize,” Vellos added. 

Vellos said former recipients have gone on to become teachers, media professionals, consultants and other productive members of society.

The scholarships provide $1,200 for high school students and $1,000 per semester for students pursuing associate degrees. To qualify, applicants must be born Belizeans, demonstrate financial need, maintain at least a B+ average throughout their studies and show that they have the ability to complete their academic programme.

Vellos also pointed out that many applicants come from single-parent households or situations of hardship.

Application details are available at socialsecurityboard.org.bz.