Top examples for others to follow

Despite the myriad of socio-economic conditions, great things are happening for many children in the Jamaican education system.

Top of the Class, The Gleaner's annual publication, shines a light on the tremendous work of outstanding students from in the education system.

By highlighting some of those who have excelled, we present them as examples for others to follow, and encourage others to aim for and attain academic excellence.

Many of those interviewed gave credit to their parents, God, and their teachers for support and encouragement. In several cases, those featured in our flashback stories began with the odds stacked against them. They faced various obstacles but persevered and are making their mark on local and international arenas.

Almost all the students interviewed articulated clear career goals in keeping with modern technological and global trends. The diverse mix of students represented in the publication highlights the importance of technology through the Internet and other emerging educational opportunities and adult educational programmes.

Poignant stories

From the interviews, creative, new and exciting frontiers in education can be expected. The stories are also poignant, and the enthusiasm of many of the students is inspiring, promising hope of a brighter tomorrow.

Education plays a very critical role in the shaping of the framework of the Jamaican society. The better educated the nation's citizens are, the more likely and able will they be to contribute positively to the growth and development of the society.

Young, bright Jamaicans promise a future we can all believe in.

Sponsors for Top of the Class 2011 include Scotiabank Foun-dation, Capital and Credit Merchant Bank, Sangster's Book Stores Ltd, Victoria Mutual Building Society, Jamaica Public Service, NCB Foundation, Supreme Ventures, and Kingston Bookshop Ltd.