Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has announced the creation of three postgraduate scholarships focused on Black Studies and reparatory justice, describing the initiative as an investment in the next generation of leaders who will advance the global movement for reparations.
The announcement formed part of Mottley’s Emancipation Day message, in which she reflected on the sacrifices of enslaved Africans and reaffirmed Barbados’ commitment to pursuing reparatory justice for the enduring legacy of slavery and colonialism.
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Under the programme, at least three Barbadians will pursue master’s degrees at the University of Glasgow in Black Studies and related disciplines, with a strong emphasis on reparatory justice. The scholarships will be offered through the Ministry responsible for Pan African Affairs in the Prime Minister’s Office in partnership with The University of the West Indies (Cave Hill and Mona campuses) and the University of Glasgow.
Announcing the initiative, Mottley said the scholarships symbolize transforming the painful legacy of the transatlantic slave trade into opportunities for education and justice.
“These scholarships are freedom carried into knowledge. Across the same Atlantic that carried our ancestors in chains, their descendants will now travel by choice, rooted in identity and equipped to shape the work of justice.”
The Prime Minister said the programme builds on recent progress made by CARICOM and the United Nations in advancing the international conversation on reparatory justice. She pledged that Barbados would continue to play a leading role in ensuring future generations are equipped to continue that work.
Mottley emphasized that while emancipation abolished slavery, it did not repair the economic and social harm inflicted on generations of enslaved people.
“Emancipation removed the legal chains, but did not restore the land, wealth or opportunity taken from generations. Reparatory justice is truth spoken, responsibility accepted and repair made practical. An apology without repair is eloquence without justice.”
She also called on Barbadians to honor the courage of their ancestors by confronting inequality and protecting the dignity of all citizens.
“Emancipation is what they won. Justice is what we owe them. Let us complete the journey.”
The scholarships are expected to strengthen academic research in Black Studies while developing future scholars and advocates capable of contributing to regional and international efforts for reparatory justice. Government officials said the initiative reflects Barbados’ broader commitment to preserving its history, promoting education and leading global discussions on the lasting impact of slavery.
The announcement has been welcomed as another significant step in Barbados’ longstanding campaign for reparations, reinforcing the country’s position as one of the Caribbean’s leading voices on historical justice and the pursuit of equitable development.
