The Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce and Industry and DeVry University have signed an agreement through which members of the private sector grouping and their staff as well as other nationals of Antigua and Barbuda may pursue higher learning through the American university’s online programme.
The agreement was penned by former president of ABCCI, Dr Errol Samuel and Vice President of Strategic Partnerships – DeVry University, Scarlett Howery.
On hand to witness the signing of the agreement was the new Principal of the Antigua and Barbuda College for Advanced Studies (ABCAS), Dr. Jonah Greene, who also delivered the keynote address.
She noted that both Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Education Minister, Daryll Matthew are deeply committed to a strategic vision of education as a driving force towards economic development. She noted that PM Browne often speaks of building an economic powerhouse premised on the idea that an educated people will propel economic development and growth.
She added that building collaborative relationships with institutions like DeVry forms part of that thrust towards achieving that goal. ABCAS, she noted is intent on helping to build an economic powerhouse through the revolutionization of education.
“Today marks a transformative moment for Antigua and Barbuda, as we advance toward one of our most ambitious national education goals; ensuring that every household in the country has at least one degree-holder. This vision is not symbolic. It is strategic and intentional. It is a commitment to lifting families, strengthening communities and securing a prosperous and competitive future for our nation,” she declared.
DeVry University’s Director for International Enrollment, Neville Madden, noted that in a world where technology is shifting and where industries are transforming, the skills that powered yesterday’s economy won’t drive tomorrow’s prosperity. Intellectual capital, he added, must be continuously invested, refreshed and expanded, or it loses its value.
“We proudly launch the DeVry University Bridge to Brilliance Initiative, making high-quality, career-focused, technology-embedded US education accessible and affordable,” he remarked.
He announced that eligible students will get a 50 percent tuition assistance, a waiver in application fee and access to over 140 online undergraduate, graduate and certificate programmes designed by industry experts.
