Rodney Williams (governor-general) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Rodney Williams
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Official portrait, c. 2015
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| 4th Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda | |
| Assumed office 14 August 2014 |
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| Monarch | Elizabeth II Charles III |
| Prime Minister | Gaston Browne |
| Deputy | Clare Roberts |
| Preceded by | Louise Lake-Tack |
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| Born | 2 November 1947 Swetes, Antigua and Barbuda |
| Political party | Labour Party |
| Spouses | Sandra, Lady Williams |
| Alma mater | University of the West Indies |
| Website | https://gg.gov.ag |
Sir Rodney Errey Lawrence Williams was born on November 2, 1947. He is an important figure from Antigua and Barbuda. He used to be a politician.
Currently, he holds the high position of the 4th Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda. Before this, he worked as a Minister for Education, Culture, and Technology. He was also a Member of Parliament until 2004.
Contents
Early Life
Rodney Williams grew up in a family connected to public service. His father was Ernest Emmanuel Williams. He was a Member of Parliament for the St Paul area. His mother, Irene B. Williams, was a professional teacher.
His Education
Rodney Williams went to the Antigua Grammar School in St. John's. After finishing school, he taught there for one year. He then decided to study medicine.
He attended the University of the West Indies, Mona. In 1976, he earned his degree in Medicine and Surgery. After that, he completed his internship at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados. From 1978, he started his own medical practice in Antigua and Barbuda.
Starting in Politics
Rodney Williams began his political journey in 1984. He became a Member of Parliament for the St Paul area. This was the same area his father had represented before him.
From 1992 to 2004, he served in the government's cabinet. He held several important roles. These included Minister of Education, Culture, Technology, Economic Development, Tourism, and Environment. He continued to represent St Paul until 2004. In the 2004 general election, he lost his seat. His party, the Antigua Labour Party, lost to the United Progressive Party.
As Minister of Education
After the Antigua Labour Party won the 1994 General Elections, Prime Minister Lester Bird chose Williams for a key role. He was appointed as the Minister of Education, Culture, and Technology. He kept this important job until his political career ended in 2004.
One of his most notable decisions as Minister of Education was introducing the Board of Education Act to Parliament. This new law created the Education Levy. This levy was a way to collect money. The money was used to buy school supplies and help maintain public schools. When the idea was first presented, some people protested in the streets of St. John's.
Becoming Governor-General
| Viceregal styles of Sir Rodney Williams (2014–Present) |
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| Reference style | His Excellency |
| Spoken style | Your Excellency |
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On August 14, 2014, Rodney Williams was sworn into office. He became the 4th Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda. The Governor-General is the representative of the King or Queen in the country. This role is mostly ceremonial. It involves duties like opening Parliament and giving out awards.
Awards and Honours
Sir Rodney Williams has received many special awards. On August 30, 2014, Queen Elizabeth II made him a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George (GCMG). This is a very high honour.
In November 2014, he received the Gold Benemerenti Medal. This was from the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of St. George. He was also made a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Francis I. This honour was given by Prince Carlo, Duke of Castro. On December 22, 2014, Williams became a Knight of the Order of Saint John (KStJ).
In May 2019, he was given an honorary PhD degree. This was from St. Mary's College of Maryland. In January 2021, he received another honorary degree. This was a DSc from the University of the West Indies.
See also
In Spanish: Rodney Williams (político) para niños
