Department of the Blue Economy Participates in Youth Skills Training to Advance National Ocean Literacy Initiative

St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – April 2026 — The Department of the Blue Economy
proudly participated in the successful conclusion of the Youth Skills Certificate Training
of Trainers (ToT) in Green, Blue, and Circular Economies, hosted by the Department of
Youth Affairs in collaboration with UNICEF.

The two-day in-person training, held on April 13–14, 2026, formed part of a broader
regional initiative aimed at equipping professionals with the tools and methodologies
needed to deliver youth-centred training in sustainable economic sectors. The
programme focused on strengthening facilitation skills, enhancing understanding of
sustainability concepts, and preparing trainers to effectively implement the Youth Skills
Certificate curriculum across national contexts.

Representing the Department of the Blue Economy were Ms. Chenneika Whyte, Ms.
Robyne Browne, and Ms. Marver Woodley, who successfully completed the training and
are now certified to support the delivery of the programme locally.
Their participation comes at a critical time as the Department advances preparations for
a major national school-based initiative scheduled for launch in September 2026. This
initiative will target secondary school students in Forms 1–3 and aims to significantly
enhance ocean literacy and awareness among youth.

The upcoming programme forms a key component of the Department’s year-long public
engagement agenda focused on answering the question: “What is the Blue Economy?”
Through this initiative, students will be introduced to the principles of sustainable ocean
use, environmental stewardship, and emerging opportunities within the blue economy.
The Department extends its appreciation to the Department of Youth Affairs and UNICEF
for their leadership in delivering this important initiative and looks forward to continued
collaboration in advancing sustainable development and youth empowerment in Antigua
and Barbuda.

For more information, please contact:
marver.woodley@ab.gov.ag
+1268 562-9730
Marver Woodley
Senior Operations and Policy Manager
Department of the Blue Economy
Government of Antigua and Barbuda