OECS Media Release
The OECS Advanced Digital Skills Scholarship Programme, an initiative through the World Bank-funded Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP) by the OECS Commission, and delivered by the University of the West Indies Global Campus, hosted a Virtual Recognition Ceremony on May 20, 2026, celebrating the achievements of 172 scholarship recipients.
They completed thorough training during a year-long period and earned industry-recognised certifications. The online event brought together awardees, programme partners, and supporters to recognise the dedication and hard work of participants who completed specialised digital skills training.
The recognition event highlighted the programme’s ongoing mission to equip individuals with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven workforce. Mrs Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, delivered opening remarks defining the importance of digital skills training in the region. She stated:
“In a world defined by rapid technological change, ensuring our citizens are equipped to thrive in the digital economy is not a matter of choice but a necessity for sustainable development. This programme is a direct and powerful expression of that longstanding vision, confirming our resolve to equip every citizen and institution across the OECS to compete globally.
“This initiative has demonstrated the value of regional collaboration, strategic partnerships and targeted investment in human capital. It has shown that when we provide our citizens with access to quality training, mentorship and emerging digital opportunities, they are fully capable of excelling in highly competitive global spaces.”
During the ceremony, organisers commended the awardees for their commitment to professional development and their readiness to contribute to the growing digital economy. Dr Francis Severin, Pro Vice Chancellor & Principal of UWI Global Campus, reflected this in his remarks.
“Through your dedication, discipline and resilience, you have demonstrated that Caribbean citizens are prepared to lead in areas such as digital innovation, technology-enabled entrepreneurship, data literacy and emerging digital industries.”
“Advanced digital skills are no longer optional; they are essential. We cannot risk becoming overwhelmed by rapid change in these areas.”
“We believe strongly that education must not only respond to change but must also empower our people to shape the future of the Caribbean.”
A special highlight of the ceremony was a testimonial delivered by one of the certified participants, Ms Shazelle Isaacs Burkewho, who shared her personal journey through the programme and reflected on the impact the scholarship had on her professional growth and that of her peers.
“What stood out most is that the programme was not solely focused on theory. The assignments and reading materials challenged us to apply what we learnt not only in our careers but also in our daily life and personal development.”
“I truly applaud the tremendous effort to get this programme off the ground.”
“I believe that every one of us is leaving this programme with valuable lessons, new skills and greater confidence in ourselves. I hope the seeds planted through this programme continue to grow, producing opportunities, success and personal advancement for years to come.”
Dr Karin Rosemin, Scholarship Management Team Lead at UWIGC, delivered an overview of the scholarship programme which featured a mentorship component and avenues for partnering through group assignments. Participants also got to access memberships to certified organisations such as the Project Management Institute, depending on their course.
After the fully certified participants were individually recognised, the ceremony concluded with a major announcement from CARDTP and the OECS: the launch of a new OECS Digital Skills Bank, a centralised repository of programme participants designed to enable organisations to identify and engage individuals with verified digital competencies. The initiative is intended to strengthen connections between trained professionals and employment opportunities, support workforce development, and enhance the availability of digital talent across the region.
The Caribbean Digital Transformation Project continues to play a key role in building digital capacity by fostering a pipeline of certified professionals prepared to meet the evolving needs of the modern workforce.
The call for applications for a second cohort will open in Summer 2026 and will be announced via the OECS online pressroom.
About The University of the West Indies
The UWI has been and continues to be a pivotal force in every aspect of Caribbean development, residing at the centre of all efforts to improve the well-being of people across the region for the past 75 years.
From a university college of London in Jamaica with 33 medical students in 1948, The UWI is today an internationally respected, global university with near 50,000 students and five campuses: Mona in Jamaica, St. Augustine in Trinidad and Tobago, Cave Hill in Barbados, Five Islands in Antigua and Barbuda and its Global Campus, and global centres in partnership with universities in North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa and Europe.