More than 40 companies have expressed interest in the expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. Moreover, the project continues to attract strong regional and international attention.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant shared the update during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing. He said the government is moving ahead with plans to expand the campus.

According to Merchant, Cabinet received an update from Education Minister Daryll Matthew. So far, more than 15 international bids have already been submitted for the project.

At the same time, over 25 local companies have shown interest in joining the development effort. Many local firms hope to partner with overseas contractors during construction.

Merchant explained that the government opened the bidding process to experienced regional and international companies. These firms specialize in large construction projects.

However, the government also wants local businesses involved in the expansion. Therefore, any overseas company awarded the contract must work alongside a local partner.

“So that’s why you have local companies also expressing an interest,” Merchant said during the briefing.

Meanwhile, officials view the expansion as a major part of the country’s education agenda. The government believes the project will help strengthen tertiary education in Antigua and Barbuda.

In addition, leaders expect the expansion to support human resource development across the wider Caribbean region. Officials said the project could create new educational opportunities for students and future professionals.

The planned expansion also reflects ongoing investment in higher education infrastructure. Furthermore, the government hopes the upgraded campus will support long-term national development goals.

Merchant said the bidding process should finish before the end of the year. Afterward, preparatory work could begin either late this year or early next year.

Meanwhile, the government continues discussions with interested companies as the process moves forward. Officials expect the next phase to focus on evaluating proposals and selecting qualified partners.

The Five Islands Campus remains a key part of Antigua and Barbuda’s education strategy. As a result, the expansion project continues to receive national attention and strong business interest.