The Antigua and Barbuda National Accreditation Board (ABNAB) has celebrated two decades of promoting quality assurance in higher education, marking its 20th anniversary with a gala recognising the institution’s contribution to strengthening the country’s education system.

The anniversary celebration was held on Saturday at the Admiral Lord Nelson’s Ballroom at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort, bringing together officials from the Ministry of Education, members of the Board, representatives of educational institutions and other stakeholders.

Chairman of the Board, Clare Browne, used the occasion to acknowledge the dedication of board members and staff whose work, he said, often goes unnoticed despite its national importance.

In his address, Browne described quality assurance as more than a regulatory process, saying it is fundamental to the country’s development.
“Quality assurance is a continuous cultivation of a culture of excellence,” he said.

He added that the Board’s mission extends beyond ensuring compliance with standards.

“Quality assurance transcends bureaucracy and compliance. It is about nurturing excellence, strengthening institutions, protecting students, and ensuring that education remains a powerful instrument of national transformation,” Browne told attendees.

Minister of Education Daryll Matthew also praised the Board’s work, highlighting its role in maintaining high standards across higher education programmes and institutions.

He said accreditation is becoming increasingly important as more Antiguans and Barbudans pursue tertiary education both locally and abroad, ensuring that qualifications earned meet internationally recognised standards.

The Education Minister encouraged students, parents and educational institutions to make greater use of the Board’s services, noting that accreditation provides confidence to employers and helps preserve the integrity and value of academic qualifications.

He said a strong accreditation system ultimately benefits the country by producing graduates whose qualifications are trusted and respected both nationally and internationally.

The gala served as both a celebration of ABNAB’s achievements over the past 20 years and a reaffirmation of its commitment to ensuring educational excellence and protecting the interests of students in Antigua and Barbuda.