OECS Advanced Digital Skills Scholarship Applications Open

The University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus, in partnership with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, has launched a significant scholarship initiative aimed at bolstering digital skills development within the Eastern Caribbean region. Funded by the World Bank’s Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP), the OECS Advanced Digital Skills Scholarship program offers citizens and residents of OECS member states access to certified training and professional development in critical digital fields. This program represents a crucial investment in human capital, equipping individuals with the advanced competencies necessary to thrive in the increasingly digital global landscape and contributing to the overall economic growth and competitiveness of the region. The scholarship program signifies a proactive approach to addressing the growing demand for digital expertise and bridging the digital skills gap within the OECS member states.

The scholarship program focuses on providing training in high-demand areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Web Development. These fields represent key drivers of innovation and economic transformation in the digital age. By providing access to specialized training in these areas, the program aims to empower individuals to become active participants in the digital economy, fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation within the Eastern Caribbean. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the CARDTP, which seeks to enhance digital connectivity, promote technology-enabled businesses, and create new employment opportunities across the region. The scholarship program serves as a catalyst for achieving these objectives by directly investing in the development of a skilled digital workforce.

The scholarship call, officially launched on April 16, 2025, during a dedicated webinar, underscores the importance of this initiative for both the UWI and the OECS Commission. Dr. Francis O. Severin, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UWI Global Campus, highlighted the transformative potential of these scholarships, emphasizing their role in equipping OECS citizens with the digital skills needed to navigate the evolving global economy. Mr. Germain Anthony, Technical Specialist – Education at the OECS Commission, reinforced the significance of this opportunity, particularly in the current context of dwindling grant funding for educational programs. His remarks emphasized the value of the scholarships and encouraged eligible individuals to seize this chance to enhance their digital capabilities.

The scholarship program is open to citizens and residents of Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This broad eligibility encompasses the full member states of the OECS Economic Union, ensuring equitable access to opportunities for digital skills development across the region. The application period extends from the launch date until May 2, 2025, providing ample time for interested individuals to prepare and submit their applications. Detailed information about the scholarship program, including eligibility criteria and application procedures, is available on the UWI Global Campus website and through dedicated communication channels.

The UWI, celebrating 75 years of service to the Caribbean region, has played a consistent role in driving regional development and improving the well-being of its people. Evolving from a small medical college in Jamaica to a globally recognized university with five campuses and a global network of partnerships, the UWI’s commitment to regional development remains steadfast. The OECS, established in 1981, is dedicated to promoting regional integration and cooperation among its member states. The collaboration between the UWI Global Campus and the OECS Commission on this scholarship initiative reflects a shared vision for leveraging digital transformation as a driver of economic growth and social progress within the Eastern Caribbean.

The OECS Advanced Digital Skills Scholarship program represents a strategic investment in the future of the Eastern Caribbean. By providing access to high-quality training in crucial digital fields, the program empowers individuals, fosters innovation, and strengthens the region’s capacity to compete in the global digital economy. This initiative underlines the commitment of both the UWI and the OECS Commission to equipping the people of the Eastern Caribbean with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the digital age. The program’s focus on in-demand areas like AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity ensures that beneficiaries are well-positioned to contribute to the region’s digital transformation and contribute to its continued economic growth and development.