Senate President Alincia Williams-Grant challenged young senators to help shape Antigua and Barbuda’s future during Wednesday’s Senate sitting.

Meanwhile, the Upper House formally convened following the April 30 general election. Senators then took their oaths during the ceremonial session at the Parliament Building.

Williams-Grant urged members to approach their duties with discipline and preparation. She also reminded senators that the public would closely watch their conduct.

“The people are watching you,” she told the chamber.

Additionally, she encouraged senators to study Parliament’s standing orders carefully. She said members must understand the rules that guide debate and procedure.

“When you come into this house, that is what’s guiding us,” Williams-Grant said.

She also stressed the value of training and personal growth. According to the Senate President, senators should remain open to learning while serving.

“Training is important,” she said. “There’s opportunity for growth and development.”

At the same time, Williams-Grant highlighted the growing role of young people in Parliament. She pointed to the appointments of Shaquan O’Neal and Jonathan Wenner, both former Youth Parliament participants.

“My heart is overwhelmed,” she said while speaking about their appointments.

Furthermore, Williams-Grant praised Parliament’s youth outreach programmes. She said young people already have an important voice in national development.

“The youth are the future of tomorrow,” she added. “They are present now.”

She also encouraged senators to work together despite political differences. According to Williams-Grant, collaboration remains important for national progress.

“What we need is a collective effort,” she said.

In addition, she urged senators to focus on issues affecting citizens across Antigua and Barbuda. She said public service should remain the chamber’s main priority.

Williams-Grant also encouraged members to engage with regional and international parliamentary partners. She said those opportunities could help senators strengthen their leadership skills and public service experience.

The Senate formally opened this week as Antigua and Barbuda began a new parliamentary term after the general election.