Antigua and Barbuda has dispatched its national team to participate in the groundbreaking inaugural OECS Super Regional STEAM Robotics Challenge, signaling a significant advancement in the Caribbean’s educational technology landscape. The Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries confirmed the delegation’s departure for this pioneering event that represents years of regional planning and commitment to youth innovation.
The competition, scheduled for March 16-20, 2026, at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, aims to enhance technical capabilities across Organization of Eastern Caribbean States member nations. This initiative builds upon previous international robotics achievements while creating a crucial bridge between local talent and global standards. The ministry anticipates establishing this event as an annual fixture on the regional academic calendar, promoting sustainable development in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) disciplines.
For this historic participation, the ministry implemented a targeted selection approach featuring Mr. Tijah Myers from Irene B. Williams Secondary School as National Coach, accompanied by student competitors Micah Matthew and Michael Harvey from the same institution. The team embodies a shared enthusiasm for innovation and knowledge acquisition, with plans to leverage their experience to mentor future robotics enthusiasts upon their return.
The ministry announced plans to develop a more comprehensive national selection process for future editions, drawing talent from annual National STEM Camps and established international robotics partnerships.
Financial support for this initiative was secured through the Citizenship by Investment Programme, with special recognition given to Education Minister Honourable Daryll Matthew for his advocacy and resource allocation efforts. The ministry also acknowledged contributions from Permanent Secretary Mrs. Ena Dalso-Henry, Education Director Mr. Clare Browne, Assistant Director Mrs. Stacey Payne-Mascall, and Principal Mrs. Ursula Willock, along with the supportive parents of the student participants.
The ministry extended best wishes to organizers in St. Kitts and Nevis while expressing anticipation for the intellectual returns on this investment in regional technological advancement.