London — The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission in London is pleased to host the first cohort of Antiguan and Barbudan participants of The King’s Foundation Building Craft Programme to the High Commission for a welcome reception.
The programme, developed through close collaboration between the King’s Foundation, the High Commission and the Antigua and Barbuda Centre for Advanced Studies, will expose the participants to specialised training in traditional and sustainable construction techniques, including heritage restoration and conservation. Its long-term value to Antigua and Barbuda lies in strengthening local technical capacity, supporting the preservation of national heritage, and preparing a new generation of skilled nationals to contribute to restoration and development efforts at home.
High Commissioner Karen-Mae Hill challenged the participants to make full use of the opportunity provided, notwithstanding the likely exposure to some chilly weather conditions. She stated, “I had the opportunity to visit Dumfries House in Scotland to meet the team there as we worked on developing this concept. This will be a unique and valuable opportunity for learning, sharing and development. I challenge you all to embrace this with discipline, openness and creativity even as you consider how these enhanced skills can benefit not just you professionally but also the Nation of Antigua and Barbuda”.
Jeremy Cross, Director of International Engagement for The King’s Foundation, attending the reception for the participants from Antigua and Barbuda, said “We are pleased to welcome these gifted individuals to The King’s Foundation training sites as they continue to develop their skills in heritage building crafts and climate-resilient construction. We look forward to working with them all and exchanging knowledge and approaches throughout the programme.”
The High Commission also wishes to acknowledge the valuable assistance of Brent Scotland, Second Secretary, and Caleb Gardiner, Third Secretary, whose efforts were instrumental in coordinating the arrangements for the visit.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission remain committed to expanding opportunities to upskill Antiguans and Barbudans through strategic partnerships that advance national development.