WATCH: Hundreds of Young People Seize Opportunity as Public Works Jobs Bring Hope

Published
Young people line up to take advantage of public works jobs (photo by Shermain Bique-Charles)

A sense of renewed hope and purpose filled the compound of the Ministry of Public Works on Monday morning, as hundreds of young people from across Antigua and Barbuda gathered—some ready to be deployed for road works, others eager for a chance at employment.

The large turnout reflected both the demand for opportunities and the willingness of young Antiguans and Barbudans to step forward and contribute to national development.

For many, the moment marked the end of some uncertainty, whether short or longterm.

“I haven’t been working for three months, and I am happy that my frustration has ended for now,” one young man from Grays Farm told Antigua.news, expressing relief at finally securing an opportunity to earn.

Another young applicant said he showed up determined to improve his situation.

“I heard they have jobs for young people, so I came to apply,” he said, echoing the sentiments of many others who lined up in hopes of being selected.

The initiative aligns with repeated calls by the government for young people to take advantage of opportunities being created, as the government continues efforts to expand employment and build a stronger, more inclusive economy.

The government has consistently emphasized that development must translate into real opportunities for citizens—particularly the nation’s youth—encouraging them to “level up” and play an active role in shaping their future.

This story was first published by Antigua News on April 13, 2026: antigua.news/2026/04/13/watch-hundreds-of-young-people-seize-opportunity-as-public-works-jobs-bring-hope. © 2026 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.

Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.

Comments (12)

  • Donna April 13, 2026, 12:59 PM

    All of a sudden, hundreds of government jobs became available at PublicWorks. They can be hired to maintain St. John’s city’s infrastructure. I am happy for these young people. Also, CHB needs to hire some of them to help maintain the cleanliness of St. John’s city.
    Reply
  • CWD April 13, 2026, 1:25 PM

    Finally, we don’t have to import labourers; they were here all the time waiting for an opportunity. Our people were overlooked for many years, and the government had to import labourers. I recall the PM once saying that his government would import skilled workers because none could be found in Antigua and Barbuda. Looking at some of these young, strong adults, a few of them seem to have some skills. With a few extra trainings, they will do fine for their nation’s development.
    Reply
  • Yes I April 13, 2026, 1:58 PM

    Elections can really make the devil dance lololololol
    Reply
  • Juju Bee April 13, 2026, 3:01 PM

    Good for them. I’ve already seen many of them walking out of public works with their spliff in mouth. So dumb
    Reply
  • CHUPZZZZZ!!! April 13, 2026, 3:14 PM

    Comment *I find it very ridiculous… People that has been working there for years still unhappy with their position and how the bigger heads deal with them! The Staff/employess/workers that’s has been there for decades, are not being paid their overtime monies! but y’all hiring allllllll these people all at once? !!! Some of these people have no qualifications no education and they entering the ministry getting bigger pay and better positions than people that has been working there for years! Some of the staff has been trying to get better positions in the ministry of public Works for years with no success!! Tell me now, if y’all cannot make the people that been working there for years happy, how y’all go bring all these people? so yal can’t pay them too.? And most of them crazy nf police got haffu run come down public Works very regularly… Total outrageouness… I could NEVER vote in this country Again EVER!!
    Reply
  • Support April 13, 2026, 3:53 PM

    At least it’s something. When you been home for months, any opportunity matters
    Reply
  • Informed citizen April 13, 2026, 3:58 PM

    This is what we want to see young people getting a chance instead of just talk
    Reply
  • Concerned Antiguan April 13, 2026, 6:23 PM

    Every election season is the same thing suddenly plenty jobs appear
    Reply
  • Glen April 13, 2026, 8:16 PM

    What a thing! they recieved employment or they came for employment. This is surly shocking
    Reply
  • Sparx4Dem April 13, 2026, 9:34 PM

    If this continues, it could really help reduce crime and idleness among young men
    Reply
  • Tromos April 14, 2026, 7:00 AM

    Is this sustainable, or just a quick fix to make people feel good?
    Reply
  • Holly April 14, 2026, 10:01 AM

    Temporary work nice, but what happen after? We need long-term jobs, not just short bursts
    Reply

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