Stronger regional integration is essential for driving economic growth and reducing dependence on external aid across the Caribbean, says Barbados Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, Sandra Husbands.
Speaking during a visit by students and staff from the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) to the Williams Industries PV solar plant in Cane Carden, St. Thomas, Husbands emphasized the importance of treating the Caribbean as a shared economic space rather than fragmented national identities.
View Investment Properties for Sale in Barbados
“We have to stop thinking as Barbadians, Trinidadians, Jamaicans, and treat the space as our space,” she stated. “Pooling our capital and resources will make it easier for professionals like yourselves to move across the region and work seamlessly.”
Highlighting the untapped potential across member states, Husbands pointed out that production integration would allow the region to fully utilize land-rich nations like Belize, Suriname, and Guyana, alongside the knowledge-based capacities of countries like Trinidad, Barbados, and Jamaica.
“We need to be building world-class facilities with the global market in mind. Integration is how we get there,” she affirmed.
View Investment Properties for Sale in Barbados
Husbands also emphasized the evolving role of education in regional development. Her ministry is committed not only to equipping students with technical skills but also instilling an entrepreneurial mindset. The goal is to empower graduates to establish competitive, globally-minded enterprises.
“We must focus on higher-level skills, especially in the technical and vocational sectors,” she said. “A skilled workforce will attract investment, increase income potential, and drive the economic growth needed to sustain the services we rely on.”
The minister praised the UTT team’s island-wide study tour in Barbados as a valuable educational experience. By observing local businesses in action, students gain real-world insight into operational strengths and challenges, she noted.
View Investment Properties for Sale in Barbados
“This is a wonderful initiative,” she said. “We need professionals who understand the region’s needs and can lead innovation to solve local problems. No one is better positioned to create those solutions than we are ourselves.”
Husbands concluded by applauding the Caribbean’s inherent creativity and brilliance. “Just look at our steel pans, our carnivals, our advancements in technology—our people are capable, innovative, and world-class,” she said. “I salute UTT for engaging in this meaningful exchange by visiting us here in Barbados.”
View all of our Properties for Sale in Barbados
