The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has commended the government’s rapid response in ensuring the safety of Antiguan and Barbudan students studying in Jamaica and Cuba during Hurricane Melissa, following letters of gratitude from the Antigua and Barbuda Student Association of Jamaica.
Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the government, led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Education Minister Daryll Matthew, acted promptly to secure the students’ safety as the storm approached. Several students in Jamaica were accommodated at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel for a week until conditions improved.
Merchant said the Cabinet received letters from the association expressing thanks for the government’s compassion and swift coordination during the emergency. The correspondence, signed by Association President Jewel Moore, highlighted the “swift and thoughtful response” of the government and described the action as a reflection of the nation’s values and dedication to its youth.
He noted that arrangements were also made with LIAT (2020) Limited in case evacuation became necessary, and that students in Cuba were assisted in relocating to safer areas during the passage of the storm.
Merchant said the Cabinet extended commendations to the Prime Minister, Minister Matthew, and officials within the Office of the Prime Minister for their leadership and coordination, which safeguarded students’ well-being and reinforced their sense of national pride and connection to Antigua and Barbuda.
The government continues to receive regular updates from students abroad on their academic progress and overall welfare following the hurricane.
