Antigua and Barbuda will soon have a local law degree program. The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus will offer Bachelor of Laws (LLB) classes starting September 2026. Cabinet announced the plan this week.

The program is a collaboration between UWI Five Islands and UWI Mona Campus Faculty of Law. Mona will oversee the curriculum, quality assurance, and academic governance. Meanwhile, Five Islands will manage teaching, recruit faculty, and provide student support.

“This initiative expands legal education regionally and strengthens legal capacity across the OECS,” Cabinet Spokesperson Maurice Merchant said during Friday’s Post-Cabinet Press Briefing.

Students and families will save significantly. Pursuing the LLB at Five Islands will reduce costs by about US $105,000 compared to studying at Mona or Cave Hill. Compared to studying in the UK or North America, savings could reach US $202,500. Merchant called it “very attractive” for students who want quality legal training without the high cost of travel and relocation.

The new program also boosts government scholarships. With an annual $520,000 allocation through the Board of Education, the government can now support 30 students per year. Previously, only 10 students could benefit when studying abroad.

“This program makes law more accessible for students who cannot afford to travel,” Merchant added.

The initiative will provide more than financial relief. Students will gain hands-on experience in Antigua while earning a degree recognized across the region. The collaboration ensures the curriculum meets Mona’s high standards, while Five Islands delivers it locally.

Officials see this as a major step for the Caribbean. It strengthens legal education, creates local opportunities, and reduces the need for students to study overseas. Additionally, the program may attract students from other OECS countries who seek affordable, high-quality law education.

The law program will also enhance Antigua and Barbuda’s legal workforce. By training more lawyers locally, the country aims to support economic growth, improve access to justice, and build capacity in public and private sectors.

This move positions UWI Five Islands as a key hub for legal education in the Caribbean. With classes starting in 2026, aspiring lawyers in Antigua and Barbuda finally have a clear path to achieve their goals without leaving home.

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