Nearly 50 students from St. Joseph’s Academy recently visited the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) headquarters to participate in a special educational session exploring the history of the trade union movement and the fundamentals of industrial relations. The visit formed part of the Union’s 58th anniversary celebrations, which concluded in May.
In opening the session, ABWU General Secretary David Massiah encouraged the students to explore academic programmes in industrial relations available at institutions such as the University of the West Indies, Jamaica and the Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative Studies in Trinidad & Tobago.
The lecture conducted by Senior Industrial Relations Officer Hugh Joseph, began with a gripping presentation chronicling the dire socio-economic conditions of the 1930s. Joseph highlighted how the widespread hardships of that era laid the foundation for the evolution of the trade union movement, particularly following the recommendations of the Moyne Commission Report. His presentation underscored the pivotal role trade unions have played in improving working conditions and the overall well-being of people throughout the region.
Students also participated in an engaging session on teamwork, led by Senior Industrial Relations Officer and Training Coordinator, Hazel Luke. The session explored the key characteristics of a good team player, offering students practical insights that are essential in both academic and professional settings.
In reflecting on the student’s visit to the Union, Luke said: “it provided a valuable opportunity for the Union to assess how connected the younger generation is to the labour movement.” She added that it also created space for students to consider potential study and career paths in industrial relations and other related fields.
Students provided overwhelmingly positive feedback and expressed an interest in participating in similar initiatives in the future. The ABWU remains deeply committed to fostering awareness among young people about the vital role trade unions play in the development of our society.
