(TORONTO) – George Brown College (GBC) signed a dynamic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, Antigua and Barbuda today. This significant event marks the beginning of a mutually beneficial partnership aimed at advancing technical and vocational training, as well as supporting Culinary Arts and Business Innovation programming in Antigua and Barbuda.
“The development of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Antigua and Barbuda is crucial for fostering economic growth and addressing skill shortages in the labor market,” said Hon. Daryll Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports and the Creative Industries. By equipping individuals with practical skills and competencies in various trades and professions, TVET programs enhance employability and productivity, contributing to a more dynamic and diversified economy. Furthermore, TVET plays a pivotal role in reducing youth unemployment and poverty, promoting social inclusion, and enabling sustainable development by aligning educational outcomes with the needs of local industries.”
The partnership is part of a broader strategic initiative with the Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and George Brown College and will:
- Train the Trainer Programs: Implementing capacity-building programs in technical and vocational education areas such as construction, electricals, refrigeration, culinary arts, and business innovation.
- Professional Development Opportunities: Leveraging Global Affairs Canada programming and other organizations to support professional development opportunities for faculty from Antigua and Barbuda, enabling knowledge and skills upgrading in Canada and to support enhanced contributions to local economic development in Antigua and Barbuda.
- 2+2 Articulation Modalities: Establishing pathways for students from Antigua and Barbuda to complete GBC degrees and other qualifications in Canada or through online and hybrid learning, particularly in Culinary Arts and Business Innovation, thus enhancing the employability and entrepreneurial potential of participants.
“George Brown College is thrilled to partner with Antigua and Barbuda to enhance educational and economic outcomes,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, President, George Brown College. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to academic excellence and international partnerships. It provides valuable opportunities for growth and development, equipping diverse learners and educators alike with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a global economy.”
The partnership aligns with GBC’s 2026 strategy promoting learner-focused excellence, accountability, diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is aimed at creating a skilled workforce in Antigua and Barbuda by enabling their faculty to upgrade their knowledge and skills in Canada and contribute to their local economic development.
About George Brown College
Toronto’s George Brown College is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples.
George Brown prepares innovative, adaptable graduates with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. With three campuses in the downtown core, the college blends theory with experiential learning, applied research, and entrepreneurship opportunities. George Brown offers 175 full-time programs and 182 continuing education certificates/designations across a wide variety of professions to more than 28,500 full-time students and receives more than 53,600 continuing education registrations annually. Students can earn certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates, apprenticeships, and degrees. www.georgebrown.ca
About Ministry of Education, Sport and Creative Industries, Antigua and Barbuda
The Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda is a government ministry responsible for overseeing and implementing policies related to education, sports and Creative Industries in Antigua and Barbuda. The ministry's primary mission is to provide quality education to all Antiguans and Barbudans, from early childhood through tertiary education. This includes developing and implementing curriculum frameworks, providing teacher training and ensuring access to education for all students, regardless of background or ability.
