ABCAS Advances School of Agriculture Transformation Ahead of September Opening

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday received a comprehensive presentation from the Head of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) on the ongoing refurbishment and restructuring works at the School of Agriculture located at the former Glanvilles Secondary School.

Cabinet was informed that the School of Agriculture is currently offering a series of short courses aimed at equipping participants with practical agricultural skills and expanding opportunities within the sector. As part of the presentation, students enrolled in the programmes proudly showcased a variety of produce cultivated through the training initiatives, demonstrating the institution’s growing capacity and the tangible outcomes already being achieved.

The Head of ABCAS updated Cabinet on the significant progress being made to transform the former secondary school into a modern agricultural training institution in preparation for the commencement of the new academic year in September 2026.

Cabinet was advised that the extensive refurbishment programme includes the upgrading and rehabilitation of classrooms, laboratories, administrative offices, common areas, and agricultural support facilities. Works presently underway include the refurbishment of six classrooms and the auditorium, installation of security louvre windows, repairs to hurricane shutters, epoxy flooring, and the outfitting of food laboratory and storage facilities.

Further enhancements include the refurbishment of a chemistry laboratory and the buildout of a new biology laboratory with upgraded water, gas and electrical systems. Cabinet was also informed of ongoing electrical upgrades, installation of energy-efficient lighting, improvements to roofing and drainage systems, painting works, and the installation of additional air-conditioning systems and laboratory exhaust infrastructure.

The presentation also highlighted plans for the construction of two poultry pens and the reconfiguration of several buildings to accommodate student services, laboratories, conference facilities, staff amenities, cafeteria services and storage areas.

Cabinet commended the leadership of ABCAS, faculty members, technical teams and students for the progress achieved thus far and for their commitment to advancing agricultural education and food security in Antigua and Barbuda.

Members of Cabinet noted that the continued development of the School of Agriculture forms part of the Government’s broader agenda to strengthen technical and vocational education, encourage youth participation in agriculture, and build national resilience through increased local food production.

Cabinet expressed satisfaction with the pace of work being undertaken and reaffirmed its full support for the completion of the project ahead of the start of the September school term.

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