Antigua and Barbuda’s government has announced plans to convert Glanvilles Secondary School into a specialised School of Agriculture, as part of a broader restructuring that will see it merged with Pares Secondary School.

The development was outlined at this week’s post-Cabinet media briefing, where officials confirmed that the move is intended to support national goals around food security, skills training, and agricultural innovation.

Preparations are already under way to upgrade the Glanvilles school plant ahead of the transition. The Ministry of Education says an assessment of the facilities revealed concerns, prompting works to ensure a smooth amalgamation.

A town hall meeting is scheduled for next week to inform parents, students and staff about the plans. Education officials are expected to provide details on the merger process and answer questions from stakeholders.

The government also confirmed that uniform vouchers will be extended to all students affected by the merger, including those entering fifth form—an exception to the usual policy. Support will also be offered to students preparing school-based assessments (SBAs), with assurances that the transition will not disrupt exam preparations.

Officials say there is already a working relationship between the two schools, with Glanvilles students previously attending Pares for subjects such as woodworking. Teachers are also said to be familiar with one another, which the government believes will help facilitate a seamless transition.

The move is part of a wider strategy to modernise education and provide young people with pathways into sectors deemed critical to the country’s long-term development.