Ministry of Innovation, Technology and Energy attends Prestigious UWI Artificial Intelligence Conference

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Tuesday, 1^st July 2025: The newly formed Ministry of Innovation, Technology and Energy (M.I.T.E.) of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a core mission to accelerate e-governance initiatives, is proud to announce the participation of Honourable E. Jay Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Second Annual Artificial Intelligence Research Conference. Held at the UWI Five Islands Campus, Antigua from 23^rd – 24^th June, 2025, the conference, themed “Bridging Digital Frontiers: AI For Caribbean Sustainability,” served as a pivotal platform for high-level discussions on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the region. The conference’s agenda, which included critical discussions on AI policy and governance, digital innovation in the public sector, and improved government service delivery, directly aligns with the Ministry’s strategic objectives.

Hon. Saunders’ attendance underscores his commitment to engaging in critical thought leadership and leveraging cutting-edge AI research to advance digital governance within the Turks and Caicos Islands. Joining Hon. Saunders at the prestigious AI Conference were M.I.T.E. Permanent Secretary, Ms. Tamera Howell-Robinson, and Head of Secretariat, Miss Lareesa Robinson. The M.I.T.E. is committed to utilising cutting-edge technology for national development, specifically advancing the initiatives of 24/7 Government and establishing a secure e-government platform.

“Our participation in the UWI Five Islands AI Research Conference was instrumental in deepening our understanding of how AI can be ethically and effectively integrated into public services,” stated Hon. Saunders. “The insights gained, particularly around AI for justice and governance, digital innovation, and citizen engagement, will directly inform our efforts to create a truly 24/7 Government and build an even more robust and secure e-government platform for all citizens,” he further stated.

Key takeaways from the conference highlighted the importance of shaping AI policy to support economic growth, ethical governance, and digital innovation in the public sector, while emphasizing regional cooperation, workforce development, and responsible AI adoption. These discussions are crucial as the M.I.T.E. continues to explore how AI can enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of government services, ensuring they are available around the clock to meet the evolving needs of the populace.

The M.I.T.E. is committed to leading the charge in responsible AI adoption, ensuring that technological advancements translate into tangible benefits for all Turks and Caicos Islanders. By actively engaging in international and regional dialogues such as the UWI Five Islands AI Research Conference, the M.I.T.E. aims to position Turks and Caicos Islands at the forefront of digital transformation in the Caribbean.

For more information on the UWI Five Islands AI Research Conference, please visit their official website: The UWI Five Islands Annual Research Conference – Bridging Digital Frontiers: AI for Caribbean Sustainability

PHOTO CAPTIONS: 

 Header: (L-R) Hon. E. Jay Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy; Dr. Curtis Charles, Director of Academic Affairs, UWI Five Islands Campus, Antigua and Barbuda; Hon. Jose Vanterpool, Minister of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing, Information Technology and E-Government Services, Anguilla.

 1^st insert: Ministry of Innovation, Technology and Energy. (L-R) Permanent Secretary, Tamera Howell-Robinson; Minister, Hon. E. Jay Saunders; Head of Secretariat, Lareesa Robinson.

2^nd insert: Hon. E. Jay Saunders and Mr. George Pilgrim, Principal Consultant, Governance and Public Policy Inc.