Prime Minister Gaston Browne has urged students of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) to begin preparing now to assume leadership of the country, telling them that a generational transition is approaching and will require discipline, confidence and critical thinking.
Speaking during an engagement with students and faculty, Browne framed the session as more than a lecture, encouraging open dialogue and scrutiny of government performance.
“Consider this engagement as part of the practical application of your studies,” he told the room, adding that students should feel free to “look critically at our government’s performance to see whether or not we are following the principles of good governance.”
The prime minister said the country’s future will depend on how well young people equip themselves to take over key roles in both the public and private sectors.
“I’m pretty sure that a few of you will end up in senior positions in the public sector and private sector in the future,” Browne said.
He warned that the current generation of leaders is approaching the later stages of their careers, making succession inevitable.
“You’d recognize that many of us in government today, we are now maturing in our 50s, 60s… so we’re looking forward now to that transition to take place… for you to join the public sector, the private sector, and to become the leaders within the country.”
Browne linked that transition to what he described as a broader national push to elevate Antigua and Barbuda’s development.
“We’ve been speaking about the Renaissance and the Renaissance is about taking Antigua and Barbuda to the next level of progress and development,” he said.
Central to that effort, he noted, is ensuring that future leaders adopt inclusive and equitable approaches to governance.
“As a leader, you have to be inclusive. You have to make sure that no one is left behind,” Browne said, pointing to existing social programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable groups.
He told students they must see themselves as part of an emerging leadership class and take responsibility for shaping the country’s trajectory.
“Consider yourselves to be the elite students because ultimately, you’re the ones who will be equipped with the skills to preside over the effective management of our country,” he said.
Beyond academic performance, Browne stressed the importance of discipline, confidence and communication skills, arguing that technical knowledge alone is not enough to succeed.
“You may have the skills, but if you don’t have the confidence… you can’t utter proper sentences… boom, you’re out,” he said, urging students to develop both hard and soft skills.
He also encouraged students to adopt a strong work ethic early, advising them to take available opportunities even if they do not align with their long-term goals.
“Even if you… may not get your ideal job, it doesn’t matter. Take whatever is available until you can get what you want,” Browne said.
Closing his remarks, the prime minister called on students to actively prepare for leadership rather than wait for opportunities to arise.
“We look forward to your stepping up, leveling up, positioning yourselves now to take over the leadership of the country,” he said.
The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts by the government to connect with young people and encourage greater participation in national development.
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