During the Fiftieth (50th) Regular Meeting of the Conference of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government, held in Saint Kitts and Nevis from 24–27 February 2026, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Eastern Caribbean Robotics and Innovation Association (EC-RIA), formerly known as OECSRA, formally signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance robotics, artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and STEAM education across the Eastern Caribbean.
The agreement was signed during the CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting by Dr Didacus Jules, OECS Director General, and H.E. Dr Ricardo Neil, Chairman and Founder of EC-RIA.
What This Means for the Region
This strategic partnership will:
Strengthen regional innovation governance
Expand robotics and AI programmes across OECS Member States
Establish innovation hubs and maker labs
Promote youth entrepreneurship and 21st-century skills development
Increase certification and training opportunities in emerging technologies
Ensure inclusive participation of women, rural communities, and persons with disabilities
The agreement also supports the deployment of advanced technologies, including AI, VR/AR, blockchain, and digital fabrication tools such as 3D printing.
A Unified Caribbean Vision for the Future
Signed at one of the region’s highest-level leadership gatherings, this agreement reflects a bold and coordinated commitment to digital transformation, youth empowerment, and innovation-led economic growth.
The Eastern Caribbean is not waiting for the future — we are building it.
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