Glanvilles Campus – By Deslyn A Joseph
Glanvilles Campus Reports Smooth
Since its official transformation into the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) School of Agriculture in September 2025, the Glanvilles campus has reported a productive and steady evolution into a specialized hub for agricultural education.
In an interview with Observer Media, Principal Karen James confirmed that the transition, which followed the merger of the Pares and Glanvilles Secondary schools, has been a success with a dedicated team of staff now in place to reshape the facility’s mission.
While the campus is currently in a foundational setting-up phase, the transformation has already moved beyond administrative changes to active, hands-on training for the public.
“The school is successfully rolling out 10-week short courses in both broiler and crop production, demonstrating the immediate shift by the campus toward practical, business-oriented farming. These courses which run during morning hours on alternating days, are already attracting a diverse group of learners, from recent school leavers to adults looking to achieve household sustainability or launch small-scale poultry and vegetable enterprises,” she stated.
James noted that the eager atmosphere among the staff is driving this initial success, with the facility being prepared to ensure that every student has a high-quality, practical experience with modern agricultural techniques.
The progress at the Glanvilles campus is serving as a critical bridge to a major academic milestone set for September 2026: the launch of a full two-year Associate Degree in Agriculture. This upcoming program will integrate the School of Agriculture more deeply into the ABCAS network, alongside sister campuses like Dr Alister Francis Campus and The Harrison Centre.
“The goal of this transformation is to prepare individuals not just for the workforce, but for entrepreneurship and university-level studies, filling a vital gap in specialized agricultural support for the nation,” she noted.
As the school continues to refine its facility and expand its curriculum, the principal invited the public to engage with the campus between its administrative hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. With short courses already proving productive and the groundwork being laid for the 2026-degree program, the School of Agriculture is positioning itself as a cornerstone for those looking to turn a willingness to learn into a viable career in farming. Interested persons are encouraged to visit the ABCAS Facebook page or any of the college’s five campuses to join the growing agricultural movement.
