As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2024, the Ministry of Education,
Sports and Creative Industries is honoured to shine the spotlight on twelve remarkable
women who are leading the way in education here in Antigua and Barbuda. From senior
technicians within the Ministry of Education, to the heads of tertiary institutions, and the
principal of the only all girls public school in Antigua and Barbuda, these visionary
leaders have demonstrated their commitment to education, championing change, and
shaping the future of education with their passion, resilience, and dedication.
In a world where gender parity remains elusive, these women in education leadership
are leading by example, inspiring the next generation of female leaders and paving the
way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Today, we feature twelve (12) phenomenal women, who have served in various
positions over their combined four centuries in education. At the helm of education, they
continue to blaze the trail through their creative and innovative approach.
The Ministry of Education salutes:
Ms. Denise Gardiner – Ms. Gardiner has been an educator for over three (3) decades.
She presently serves as Chairman – Board of Education.
Dr. E. Jonah Greene – Deputy Director of Education. Dr. Greene has served as an
educator in Antigua and Barbuda for over thirty-three (33) years.
Mrs. Beverly Allen – Assistant Director of Education – Curriculum. Mrs. Allen has been
an educator since October 1980.
Ms. Ineta Francis – Assistant Director of Education – Measurement and Evaluation. Ms.
Francis has devotedly served in education for over forty (40) years.
Mrs. Marion Byron – Assistant Director of Education – TVET. Mrs. Byron has been an
inspiring educator for over forty (40) years.
Dr. Desiree Antonio – Education Officer – Administration – Zone III (Primary). Dr.
Antonio has faithfully served as an educator for over forty (40) years.
Mrs. Alvacea Burton – Education Officer – Administration – Zone II (Primary). Mrs.
Burton has worked in both public and private schools and has over forty (40) years’
experience as an educator.
Mrs. Denise Mills – Education Officer – Administration – Secondary. Mrs. Mills has over
thirty-six (36) years’ experience as an educator.
Mrs. Theoline Croft – At the helm of Antigua Girls’ High School, Principal Croft has been
an educator for over forty (40) years. She continues to be an inspiration for young
women under her charge by being a model and mentor for future generations of female
leaders.
Dr. Na-Ajele Buffonge – Principal, Antigua State College. She has worked in education
for twenty-four (24) years.
Mrs. Arlene Weste – Director – Harrison Centre Antigua and Barbuda School of
Continuing Education. She has over forty (40) years’ experience in education.
Mrs. Ornel Walker-Maurice – Head of Campus, Antigua and Barbuda Institute of
Technology. Mrs. Maurice has been an educator for over twenty (20) years.
On this International Women's Day, let us celebrate and honour these exemplary
women who are leading the way in education leadership. Their vision, passion, and
dedication are transforming lives, communities, and by extension the nation, paving the
way for a brighter and more equitable future for all.
