Ministry Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Second Annual Summer Internship Programme by Shenequa Williams
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy officially concluded its Second Annual Summer Internship Programme with a closing ceremony held at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre on Friday, July 31. The ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of the interns following five weeks of hands-on training, educational experiences and exposure to the various areas that support Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural sector.
The event was hosted by Ms. Emerald David/Statistical Officer in the Statistical/Communications Officer and Assistant Coordinator for the 2026 Summer Internship Programme. The ceremony featured remarks from Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture, a review of the internship by Mrs. Carol-Faye Bynoe-George/Head of Communications and Internship Coordinator , special remarks from Minister of State Hon. Randy Baltimore, intern video presentations, presentations from participants, an overview of the programme and the presentation of certificates and awards.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Hon. Randy Baltimore/Minister of State, Sharolyn Matthew/Permanent Secretary at the Blue Economy, Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture, Mrs. Nicolette Francis/Agricultural Science Education Officer, representatives from the CTEXIC Corporation, representatives from the Chinese Embassy, Mrs. Maudvere Bradford/Senior Research Officer, internship partners, teachers, parents, mentors and interns.
In his remarks, Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture highlighted the value of the internship experience and the growth of the participants throughout the programme. He noted that “over the past five weeks, this internship has been more than just a learning experience, as interns were able to gain practical exposure, develop new skills and strengthen their appreciation for the importance of agriculture, fisheries and the blue economy.” Mr. Bailey emphasized the importance of youth involvement in the sector and encouraged the interns to continue building on the knowledge and experiences gained during the programme.
Mrs. Carol-Faye Bynoe-George provided a review of the programme, highlighting the wide range of activities completed by the interns during their five-week journey. Through farm visits, agro-processing sessions, conservation activities, agricultural demonstrations and interactions with industry professionals, the interns were able to gain firsthand knowledge of the many career opportunities available within the sector.
The closing ceremony also featured reflections from the interns through video presentations and presentations showcasing their experiences, achievements and memorable moments throughout the programme.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates and awards to the interns who successfully completed the programme. Several interns and mentors were also recognized for their outstanding contributions.
Award recipients included:
– Best Male Mentor: Koden Adams
– Best Female Mentor: J’Naye Charles
– Most Outstanding Male Intern: Jamalee Jarvis
– Most Outstanding Female Intern: Angel Farquhar
– Most Hardworking Intern: Keon Livingstone
– Most Creative Intern: Yuvraj Hansram
– Most Improved Intern: Narecia Dreckett
The group with the best attendance was awarded to Agriculture On The Go (AOTG), while congratulations were also extended to Seven Sparks, the group who won the World Ocean Month Blue Economy Beach Clean initiative.
The Ministry expressed heartfelt appreciation to all partners, sponsors, mentors and supporters who contributed to the success of the internship programme. Special thanks were extended to the Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy Hon. Anthony Smith Jr. and the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda for the support given for this years internship and other contributions that helped recognize and reward the interns’ dedication and achievements.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by mentors Joshua Henderson and Jamelia Morrissey, who expressed gratitude to everyone involved in making the programme a success.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy congratulates the 2026 Summer Internship Programme interns on their successful completion and wishes them continued success in their future academic, professional and personal endeavors. The Ministry remains committed to empowering young people and encouraging the next generation of leaders in agriculture and the blue economy.
