Deputy General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU), Chester Hughes, has graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB Hons), Upper Second-Class Honours, from Arden University in the United Kingdom, while continuing to serve in one of the union’s senior leadership positions.

Hughes received his degree during a graduation ceremony on Tuesday, celebrating the achievement with family and friends after completing several years of study alongside his responsibilities within the labour movement.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Hughes described the experience as both challenging and rewarding, saying that balancing work, studies and personal commitments required discipline, resilience and determination.

He said each stage of the programme strengthened his legal knowledge and professional confidence, equipping him with skills that will support the next phase of his career.

The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union congratulated Hughes on his achievement, describing it as a reflection of his commitment to personal development and to strengthening the labour movement through education and leadership.

According to the union, Hughes’ legal training will further enhance his work in areas including labour law, industrial relations, collective bargaining and social justice.

The ABWU also announced that Hughes is expected to return to the United Kingdom later this summer to pursue the Bar Training Course, the next step toward qualifying as a legal professional.

The union said his accomplishment serves as an example of lifelong learning and professional development for workers across Antigua and Barbuda.