Report of the Leo S. Rowe Fund

Thank you, Chair,

Allow me to begin by extending a warm thank you to Ambassador Lou-Anne Gilchrist, the distinguished Permanent Representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Chair of the Leo S. Rowe Fund Commission, for the presentation of this report and for her outstanding leadership as head of this emblematic program.

The legacy of Dr. Leo Rowe is a beacon of inspiration that continues to light the path of Pan-Americanism and the promotion of education, leaving an indelible mark on the historical evolution of our continent. The work that the Leo Rowe Fund has carried out during its 75 years of uninterrupted operations is a cause for deep admiration.

This program has been a cornerstone of opportunity for thousands of students from the 32 eligible member countries, facilitating the completion of their higher education studies in the United States of America.

We must express our sincere gratitude to the United States Mission for its generous additional contribution of scholarships in the month of April, which has allowed us to increase the reach and transformative effect of this program.

The testimonials from those benefited are a clear reflection of the value and profound impact that the Leo Rowe Fund imparts in shaping the future leaders and professionals of our region. These stories are living proof of how education can transform lives and, therefore, entire societies.

It is imperative that we continue our resolute support for this pivotal program through the Department of Human Development, Education, and Employment of the Executive Secretariat for Integral Development. Likewise, it is essential that we actively promote this initiative in our respective countries so that a greater number of students can access this invaluable initiative.

The Dominican Republic reiterates its firm commitment to the Leo Rowe Fund and its noble mission of uniting the Americas through education.

I thank you deeply, Mr. Chair.