Prime Minister Gaston Browne says he plans to begin studies for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in January.

Speaking on his weekly radio program Saturday, Browne said he intends to contact the University of the West Indies (UWI) on Monday to formalize his application.

While he did not specify his field of study, Browne described the decision as part of his personal commitment to lifelong learning and academic excellence.

Browne, who already holds a master’s degree, has long promoted higher education among his colleagues and the public. He has frequently urged parliamentarians and supporters of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party to take advantage of opportunities for further education, particularly through the UWI Five Islands Campus.

Several parliamentarians are currently enrolled at the campus, including Senator Lamin Newton and Colin O’Neal. Opposition MP Kelvin “Shugy” Simon is also pursuing his degree there.