Minister Matthew takes girl power to Cabinet, backs bidfor global robotics title

St. John’s, Antigua. Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Minister of Education, Science and Technology, The Hon. Daryll Matthew introduced Antigua and Barbuda’s first all-girls robotics team and its robot, HAWK, to Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Cabinet on Wednesday.

Minister Matthew proudly presented the girls, giving their work recognition at the highest level of government. His support extends beyond the presentation, with the Board of Education – which falls under his portfolio – backing the team’s participation with a contribution of EC$30,000.

Prime Minister Browne described the five students, selected through the TechByte summer STEM camp, as the “crème de la crème” and urged them to bring home the title.

The team will compete at the 2026 FIRST Global Challenge in Incheon, Republic of Korea, from October 7 to 10. The event, themed “Igniting Innovation,” is expected to draw teams from more than 190 countries. Competitors will work together using robots to complete simulated tasks involving wildfire prevention, mitigation and recovery.

The team comprises Hannah Masson, Audella-Mae James, Gyanna Ryan, Sidea Ambrose and Neola Noronha. They are guided by lead mentor Elijah James and mentor Asanti Bacchus.

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