This year’s theme, “Preparing Generation Alpha,” highlights the importance of equipping our youngest generation with the necessary skills, knowledge, and values to thrive in an ever-changing world. As the Minister of Education, I am proud to stand before you today and reaffirm our commitment to providing quality education and support for all children in Antigua and Barbuda.

Generation Alpha, those born between 2010 and 2025, are growing up in a world vastly different from the one we knew. They are digital natives, surrounded by technology and global connectivity. As educators and parents, it is our responsibility to ensure that they are prepared to navigate this new landscape, while also preserving the values and traditions that make our nation strong.

During this Child Month, we will focus on several key areas to help prepare Generation Alpha for success. Firstly, we will emphasize the importance of early childhood education, providing our youngest learners with a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills.

We will also emphasize the importance of social-emotional learning, helping our children develop empathy, resilience, and self-awareness. These skills are essential for building healthy relationships, managing emotions, and adapting to new situations.

We will seek to prioritize the mental and physical well-being of our children, ensuring that they have access to nutritious food, regular exercise, and mental health support.

As we embark on this journey of preparing Generation Alpha, I urge all parents, guardians, and educators to join us in this endeavor. Let us work together to create a nurturing environment that fosters growth, curiosity, and resilience in our children.

In closing, I leave you with a quote from Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Let us harness the power of education to empower our children and shape a brighter future for Antigua and Barbuda.

Thank you, and may we all have a successful and inspiring Child Month 2024!