His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, on Friday morning officially declared open the Centenary Celebrations of the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (A&BUT) during a special launch ceremony held at the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies, Muriel O’Mard Campus.
The ceremony marked the beginning of a year of activities commemorating 100 years of advocacy, service, and professional representation of teachers in Antigua and Barbuda.
In keeping with the symbolism of the occasion, His Excellency rang a ceremonial bell, signalling the official start of the Union’s centenary celebrations. The bell-ringing served as a fitting tribute to the teaching profession, evoking the familiar school bell that has for generations called students and teachers to the pursuit of learning.
Delivering brief remarks before making the declaration, the Governor-General reflected on his own connection to the teaching profession and the education sector. Before entering public life, Sir Rodney Williams served as a classroom teacher in science and later in nursing education, experiences which, he noted, deepened his appreciation for the dignity and importance of the teaching profession.
His Excellency also recalled his two periods of service as Minister of Education, during which he worked closely with the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers. He commended the Union for its longstanding role in fostering dialogue, promoting professionalism, and strengthening the education system through constructive engagement between educators and government.
Sir Rodney emphasized the importance of effective communication, transparency, accountability, and sound employer–employee relations in advancing education and national development. He further noted that a strong and responsible professional body representing teachers contributes significantly to the stability and progress of the education sector.
The Governor-General congratulated the Union on reaching the historic milestone and encouraged members to continue their important work in shaping the minds and character of future generations.
“Teachers stand at the very foundation of national progress,” His Excellency stated, noting that the classrooms of Antigua and Barbuda have produced many of the leaders and professionals who continue to contribute to the country’s development.
Following the ceremonial bell-ringing, His Excellency formally declared the 100th Anniversary Celebrations of the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers officially launched.
The launch ceremony, also attended by the Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, the Honourable Daryll Matthew, included welcome remarks from Mrs. Robyn Joseph-Nathaniel, First Vice President, a historical overview of the Union delivered by Ms. Rochelle Peters, Deputy General Secretary, and remarks from Mr. Casroy Charles, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers. The programme also featured musical selections, a remembrance segment honouring past leaders of the Union, the unveiling of the Union’s centenary logo, and the presentation of highlights of upcoming anniversary activities.
The centenary celebrations are expected to include a series of events throughout the year recognizing the contributions of teachers and the enduring role of the Union in the development of education in Antigua and Barbuda.