Culture Minister urges embracing technology to enhance and preserve cultural expression.

The Minister for Creative Industries in Antigua and Barbuda, Daryll Matthew, advocates for integrating 4th Industrial Revolution technologies in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to preserve and benefit from the region’s cultural expressions.

He emphasizes the potential of technology-driven artistic expression in enhancing cultural tourism, valorizing culture, and benefiting cultural institutions in the Caribbean SIDS.

Minister Matthew highlights the transformative power of technologies in reshaping societies and sees the 4th Industrial Revolution as an opportunity for SIDS to enhance their cultural landscape, preserve heritage, and stimulate economic growth.

He particularly emphasizes the potential of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize tourist cultural experiences.

These technologies can create immersive experiences, enhance physical tours of cultural sites, and personalize the tourist experience through data analytics.

Minister Matthew acknowledges the economic implications of integrating technology into artistic expression and cultural heritage initiatives, as it generates revenue, creates jobs, and contributes to the overall economic development of the region.

However, he also acknowledges the challenges, such as access to technology and digital literacy, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

He emphasizes the importance of ensuring equitable access to technology and providing digital education for inclusive cultural development.

Additionally, he stresses the need to ensure that Caribbean artists are properly compensated for their contributions, especially those facing barriers to full integration.