Antiguans and Barbudans studying in Jamaica have expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Gaston Browne and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda for their swift intervention and assistance during the passage of Hurricane Melissa last week.

According to the Director of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant, the Cabinet recently received letters of appreciation from the Antigua and Barbuda Student Association of Jamaica (ABSAJ) acknowledging the government’s decisive response to ensure the students’ safety and well-being amid the storm.

In the immediate aftermath of the hurricane threat, the government facilitated temporary accommodation for 53 students at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel for seven days. The students have since returned to their universities — some resuming their classes while others assist in the cleanup and recovery of their respective campuses.

Merchant explained that the Office of the Prime Minister coordinated closely with local contacts and airline partners to provide logistical support, accommodation, and contingency plans, including the potential use of LIAT 2020 for evacuation if necessary.

In letters addressed to Prime Minister Browne and Mr. Merchant, Ms. Jewel Moore, representing the Student Association, conveyed “profound gratitude for the government’s swift and thoughtful response,” noting that it not only safeguarded the students physically but also reinforced their sense of pride and national belonging.

“The correspondence highlighted the compassion and leadership shown by Prime Minister Browne and his team,” Merchant said. “It underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of our students overseas, especially in times of crisis.”

The Cabinet formally acknowledged the letters at its weekly meeting, extending commendations to the Prime Minister and all officials who played a role in protecting the nation’s students abroad during the severe weather event.

Merchant added that the government remains committed to maintaining strong communication with students studying overseas, particularly in countries prone to natural disasters, as part of its broader commitment to youth development and safety.

“Hurricane Melissa was a test of coordination and care,” Merchant concluded. “We’re proud that Antigua and Barbuda rose to that challenge and ensured that no student was left behind.”