AI and Career Development Take Focus for Tourism Week 2026

Preparing tourism workers for advances in artificial intelligence and the changing demands of the industry will be a central focus of Antigua and Barbuda’s Tourism Week 2026, scheduled for November 22–29.

The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment has announced a programme under the theme, “Empowering Our People for the Future: Embracing AI, Building Skills and Securing Careers.”

Activities will combine discussions on technology and workforce development with community outreach, destination experiences and recognition of those who contribute to the sector.

A Tourism Symposium on Monday, November 23, will examine how artificial intelligence, skills training and workforce development could shape future employment opportunities. Beginning at 9:00 a.m., the event will bring stakeholders together to discuss how Antigua and Barbuda can prepare its people for changes in global tourism.

Registration will be required, with the venue and registration details to be announced.

The week will open on Sunday, November 22, with a Service of Thanksgiving at Spring Gardens Moravian Church at 8:00 a.m. Tourism workers, industry partners and members of the public are invited to attend.

On Wednesday, November 25, employees of the ministry and its statutory bodies will participate in Know Your Product Day, experiencing local attractions and tourism offerings first-hand. The initiative aims to strengthen their knowledge of the destination they help promote and serve.

Attention will shift to Barbuda on Thursday, November 26, when representatives of the ministry, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and other stakeholders will engage students on tourism’s contribution to national development.

The Barbuda Day activities will also introduce students to career opportunities within the industry.

Community support will follow on Friday, November 27, through the annual Tourism Gives Back initiative, which provides donations and assistance to organisations in need.

The programme will conclude with the National Tourism Awards Gala on Sunday, November 29, at Casa Palmadita, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The gala will honour individuals and organisations whose service contributes to the visitor experience and the development of tourism. Recognition will extend across accommodation, taxi associations, tour guiding, Customs, Immigration and other areas supporting the sector.

The ministry said the programme reflects its emphasis on investing in people and equipping the workforce with the skills needed to sustain a competitive and resilient tourism industry.