Jamalco recognised for community work

Jamalco, owned jointly by Alcoa and the Government of Jamaica, is the recipient of the Northern Caribbean University (NCU) President's Medallion for its outstanding service and commitment to nation building and for being a responsible corporate citizen.

The award was presented to Jamalco at the 2010 graduation exercises held at NCU's main campus in Mandeville, Manchester.

In accepting the award on behalf of his company, Human Resources Manager Christopher Buckmaster said: "We are very grateful for this recognition from NCU. This is consistent with one of our main beliefs that to be the best company in the world, we first be the best in your community. Our numerous community initiatives are undertaken by our corporate services and we are happy that our efforts have been recognised today."

With a workforce of 922 (staff and individual contractors as at May 2010), its expenditure for local contractor services and supplies was over US$78 million in 2009, while investments made in local communities were more than US$355,000 in the same year.

Responsibilities maintained

"We take pleasure in recognising Jamalco for support to the communities of Manchester and the wider society," said NCU President Dr Herbert Thompson. "At a time when the world faced enormous challenges from the global recession, we are pleased that Jamalco maintained its social responsibilities to the communities and also managed to maintain its labour force, while others could not afford to keep theirs. We commend Jamalco on a job it has done and continues to do in this country."

The company has undertaken initiatives such as its safety in schools education programme, book projects, as well as providing back-to-school assistance and computers for schools.

In the sphere of health and environment, the company provides medical supplies, holds health fairs and a school nutrition programme. It also helps in sports and infrastructure by engaging the communities in netball, football, special Olympics, drain cleaning and road development, security support and a water-supply programme.

Locally, the company has a refinery at Halse Hall, Clarendon; a port facility at Rocky Point, Clarendon, and bauxite mines in Harmons Valley and Mount Oliphant, Manchester.

President's Medallion

At the president's discretion and in consultation with the administration, the President's Medallion is awarded annually to any worker, alumnus or member of the wider community who has:

✔ Contributed to the growth and development of NCU

✔ Demonstrated conviction and confidence in NCU's mission and aspiration

✔ Exhibited steadfast loyalty to the university and

✔ Being a role model in the society