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LISTEN: Gov’t May Introduce Means Testing for Scholarship Fund

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Gov’t May Introduce Means Testing for Scholarship Fund

The government’s scholarship program may soon undergo significant reform, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne announcing that it could be subjected to means testing in the near future.

Currently, the government spends more than $50 million annually on scholarships for residents and their children, including families who are financially able to cover their own expenses. Browne noted that this practice, while deeply rooted in local culture, may not be sustainable given the surge in applications.

Speaking on his weekend radio program, the Prime Minister said changes are likely necessary to ensure fairness and sustainability.

Under a means-tested system, scholarships would be awarded primarily based on financial need, directing government resources to students from households that are least able to afford tertiary education.

The Prime Minister says any shift would be designed to preserve access to higher education while making sure that limited funds are distributed equitably.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/09/22/listen-govt-may-introduce-means-testing-for-scholarship-fund. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (10)

  • KC September 22, 2025, 8:05 AM

    Maybe look into avoiding the misapropriation of funds. Whole ton a money keep going into other pple pockets instead of the students, but we not talking about that. Whole ton of non nationals come and get scholarships under the Antiguan umbrella then ship out after, but you not talking about that
    Reply

  • Apex Jones September 22, 2025, 8:09 AM

    So you mean to tell me there was no means test before? So even people who can afford are benefitting?
    Reply

  • KK September 22, 2025, 8:54 AM

    This comes now after he pickney done get a whole scholarship to Monroe.
    Reply

  • Concerned for Equity September 22, 2025, 9:15 AM

    What about scholarships for outstanding exemplary students? I hope this is not a way to buy votes by awarding scholarships to children of Cronies!!! I would have expected to hear this from the Director of Education, not the chief mouthpiece of Rum Shop Radio!!
    Reply

  • Donna September 22, 2025, 9:58 AM

    We have been contributing to the education levy since it was implemented, so don’t talk crap here now Mr PM. A lot of non-nationals pickney have been getting scholarships, and me who born here pickney in limbo for a scholarship. I have to be vending on weekends just to meet my child tuition monthly plan payment. A lot of born Antiguan parents are in the same predicament. My parents, grandparents and great-grandparents all born here in this little Antigua. Born Antiguans parents pickney should get first priority, anybody else come after. Yes, non-national parents do contribute to the education levy.
    Why not implement the same education scholarship system that St Kitts and Nevis has, the government there pay half of the tuition and parents pay the other half to any university.
    Reply

  • KC September 22, 2025, 11:00 AM

    If Antiguans dont apply for it, is foreigners gonna come and get these funds. And is not Antigua thwy planning to stay either. Go and check it out yourself.
    Reply

  • Walsh September 22, 2025, 12:03 PM

    Well…if the government is spending over $50 million on scholarships, then it makes sense to ensure that those who truly need the assistance are prioritized. Education must remain accessible, but fairness demands that resources go first to families who would otherwise struggle to afford it. This is a step toward responsibility and equity. So I agree. 110 percent
    Reply

  • Maki September 22, 2025, 12:42 PM

    Yes to accountability! We can’t keep doing things just because it’s tradition. The system must evolve to ensure equal opportunity and long-term sustainability
    Reply

  • Lena September 22, 2025, 3:03 PM

    This is about fairness. Accountability means every dollar is used to uplift the students who need it most, not to subsidize those already well off. Good move by the government
    Reply

  • Informed citizen September 22, 2025, 7:57 PM

    Education is the key to breaking cycles of poverty. Prioritizing those with financial need makes sense.
    Reply

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