The release of 2026 Grade 6 National Assessment results in Antigua and Barbuda has drawn widespread praise from the nation’s top education official, who has extended congratulations to every stakeholder involved in supporting student success across the country.
In an official public statement released following Friday’s result announcement, Education Minister Daryll Matthew lauded the relentless commitment and steadfast determination demonstrated by students, families, teachers, and entire school communities that paved the way for this year’s positive outcomes. Matthew framed the national assessment as far more than a routine test — instead, he positioned it as a critical milestone that marks a key transition point in every young learner’s educational trajectory, crediting the collective collaborative effort of families, frontline educators, and school administrators for driving student achievement across the board.
The minister reserved special recognition for the nation’s highest-performing students in this year’s assessment. Leading all candidates across the country was Denushka H. Gibbs, a student at Minoah Magnet Academy, who claimed the distinction of the top overall national scorer. Following closely behind in second place was Marlensky J. Salien of Antigua Baptist Academy, who also earned the title of the highest-ranking male student in the nation. Rounding out the top three overall performers was Necasia B. Ralph from J. T. Ambrose Primary School, who achieved the highest score among all candidates attending government-run primary institutions.
Beyond individual honors, Matthew also highlighted the institutional success of Post Millennial Academy, which outperformed all other schools in the country by placing 12 students on the prestigious National Top 100 list, the highest number of any participating school this year.
Even as the nation celebrates the standout success of top-ranked candidates and high-performing schools, Matthew took the opportunity to reframe popular narratives around educational success, stressing that examination rankings should never be the only measure of a student’s potential or achievement.
Addressing every student who sat for this year’s assessment, Matthew said: “To every student, whether your name appears on a list or not, be proud of your efforts. This is just one milestone on your educational journey. Keep believing in yourselves, keep working hard, and continue striving for excellence.”