Carib Scope

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  • Teaching Service Commission restrained from appointing principal to Sixth Form Polytechnic

    Teaching Service Commission restrained from appointing principal to Sixth Form Polytechnic

    In a significant judicial development, the High Court has authorized acting principal Nisha Thomas to legally contest her exclusion from a promotion process, despite her unequivocal possession of the required academic credentials. Justice Frank Seepersad presided over the case on December 4, delivering a ruling that not only grants leave for judicial review but also extends the application deadline while casting serious doubt on the rationality of the Teaching Service Commission’s (TSC) position.

    The court’s intervention includes an interim injunction that prohibits the TSC from making any permanent appointment to the principal position at the Sixth Form Government Polytechnic Institute in St James until at least December 15, when the matter will receive further judicial consideration.

    According to court documents, Thomas applied for the principal (secondary) position in April 2024 following the Ministry of Education’s public invitation for candidates. The established criteria mandated at least eight years of post-diploma teaching experience, two years of service as vice principal, a bachelor’s degree in a specialty subject, and a valid teaching certificate.

    Thomas, an educator since 1990 who has held the substantive post of head of department since 2013 (a position requiring a bachelor’s degree), presented compelling credentials. She earned her BA in History from the University of the West Indies in 1994 and has been serving as acting principal of the same institution since August 2021 through TSC appointment.

    The controversy emerged when the TSC notified Thomas in August that she was deemed ineligible for consideration, claiming she did not possess “a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognised university.” This determination persisted despite her documented academic history and professional trajectory. Thomas explained that she had misplaced her original degree certificate during a previous master’s program application and consequently did not upload it, assuming the TSC already maintained evidence of her qualifications from her head of department appointment.

    When Thomas sought clarification in late August, commission officials reportedly stated that even a replacement certificate would not alter her eligibility status due to the closed application window. This position was maintained despite her submission of a replacement certificate from UWI and her disclosure of both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

    The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA) intervened twice on her behalf, noting that other applicants had experienced similar documentation transmission issues. Court documents revealed that one acting vice principal in south Trinidad who initially faced comparable obstacles was eventually interviewed.

    Thomas’s legal team, comprising attorneys Ian Roach, Anthony Bullock, and Alatashe Girvan, argues that the TSC’s decision appears irrational, relies on unsupported assumptions, fails to consider relevant information, and denies their client a fair hearing. They emphasize that “there could be no reasonable dispute that she had the qualification” and note the limited number of vacant principal positions available.

    The applicant seeks formal declarations that her legitimate expectation to be considered was breached, orders to quash both TSC decisions, and mandates requiring the commission to reassess her eligibility and schedule an interview.

  • TT Stock Exchange introduces AI chatbot

    TT Stock Exchange introduces AI chatbot

    The Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange (TTSE) has unveiled a groundbreaking artificial intelligence-powered chatbot designed to transform how investors and market participants access financial information. Named TOBI (TTSE Online Bot Interface), the innovative tool now operates on the exchange’s official website, providing continuous automated assistance for various market-related inquiries.

    This advanced digital assistant represents a significant leap in the exchange’s technological capabilities, offering instant responses to frequently asked questions regarding trading activities, corporate listings, dividend distributions, and settlement procedures. The system serves both TTSE operations and services managed by the Trinidad and Tobago Central Depository (TTCD), creating a unified information gateway for all market participants.

    TOBI’s implementation caters to a diverse user base, from novice investors taking their first steps in capital markets to experienced brokers and corporate representatives. The AI-driven interface provides automated guidance on initiating trading activities, navigating online platforms, and accessing critical documents including account statements and corporate announcements.

    Exchange officials emphasized that TOBI’s deployment aligns with broader strategic initiatives to modernize the nation’s capital market infrastructure. “We remain focused on enhancing transparency, accessibility, and investor engagement,” stated TTSE representatives. “This launch demonstrates our ongoing commitment to market modernization and ensuring stakeholders can access necessary information promptly.”

    The chatbot introduction follows years of progressive digital transformation at TTSE, which has included substantial upgrades to its trading portal and electronic document management systems. TOBI’s adaptive functionality includes personalized responses to market queries, step-by-step guidance for trading processes, and seamless navigation support for TTSE and TTCD digital platforms.

    This technological advancement forms part of a comprehensive long-term digitalization strategy aimed at strengthening market infrastructure through technology-driven solutions. Exchange leadership confirmed that additional technological enhancements are planned to further improve user experience across the capital market ecosystem.

    Currently accessible through the TTSE website, TOBI provides 24/7 information access as Trinidad and Tobago’s capital markets continue their evolution toward increasingly automated, technology-enhanced services.

  • Foreign hurricane relief workers subject to strict health screening protocol – MOHW

    Foreign hurricane relief workers subject to strict health screening protocol – MOHW

    Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness has implemented comprehensive health screening protocols for all international relief personnel entering the country following Hurricane Melissa. This decisive action addresses concerns about potential disease importation while maintaining critical disaster response operations.

    The ministry’s response comes after Opposition Health Spokesperson Dr. Alfred Dawes raised alarms about possible disease transmission through relief workers, referencing cholera outbreaks following the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Dr. Dawes emphasized the need for vigilant screening measures to prevent similar public health emergencies.

    Officials have established a multi-layered defense system against disease transmission. All relief workers undergo pre-arrival verification requiring deploying agencies to certify personnel are medically fit and free from communicable illnesses. Upon arrival, public health inspectors conduct thorough assessments including temperature checks, symptom reviews, and vaccination status verification, with particular attention to countries visited within the previous six weeks.

    The surveillance continues throughout workers’ deployments with mandatory reporting requirements for any illness cases. Emergency medical teams’ temporary housing facilities undergo rigorous inspections to ensure proper sanitation, waste management, and hygiene infrastructure. All monitoring activities integrate with Jamaica’s enhanced post-disaster surveillance system for comprehensive coverage.

    The Health Ministry maintains that no communicable diseases have been detected among relief workers to date, affirming the effectiveness of these protective measures while ensuring continued international support for hurricane recovery efforts.

  • Flippa Moggela and Chronic Law release collaboration

    Flippa Moggela and Chronic Law release collaboration

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant musical partnership, Jamaican dancehall artist Flippa Moggela (professionally known as Flippa Mafia) has joined forces with acclaimed lyricist Chronic Law to deliver a powerful new single titled ‘Like This.’ The track is rapidly gaining traction across both domestic and international airwaves, establishing itself as a potential anthem within the genre.

    The collaboration finds both artists adopting a contemplative stance, using their verses to articulate the personal challenges posed by envy and negativity from others. Flippa Moggela emphasized the song’s universal appeal, noting that its theme resonates with a broad audience facing similar interpersonal struggles. ‘My music is always rooted in authenticity, which is why my fanbase remains so dedicated. This song addresses the universal challenge of overcoming envious individuals and the pitfalls they create,’ he stated, also praising Chronic Law’s significant contribution to the project.

    Produced under the collaborative banner of Flip Money Records and VX Records, the single is featured on the ‘Mix Feelings’ riddim, a rhythm that also hosts works from other prominent artists like Jahmiel, Nhance, and Tishaine.

    Explaining his decision to release his own juggling—a classic dancehall practice of featuring multiple artists on a shared rhythm—Flippa Moggela cited a deep-seated commitment to cultural preservation and artistic entrepreneurship. ‘Growing up, I listened to jugglings; they are an integral part of our dancehall heritage. I am dedicated to upholding the rich legacy established by my predecessors, which includes providing a platform for other talented artists. From a business perspective, producing your own music is also a strategic move,’ he explained.

    The alliance between the two artists was facilitated by none other than dancehall superstar Popcaan. Flippa Moggela revealed that Popcaan initiated the connection, which was originally intended for a live performance at his Evolution concert. Although scheduling conflicts prevented that appearance, the introduced link between the artists flourished, resulting in a seamless and impactful studio collaboration that Flippa described as perfectly synergistic.

  • ‘God is so good to me’

    ‘God is so good to me’

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic passage through St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, the profound human toll extends far beyond physical destruction. For Janet Chambers, a resident of Middle Quarters, the Category 5 storm in October didn’t merely demolish her home but unleashed an overwhelming tide of desperation and powerlessness.

    Absent during the hurricane’s fury, Chambers received the devastating news through a frantic call from her sister warning about her home’s precarious state. Returning to her property, she confronted unimaginable devastation: her kitchen vanished, veranda destroyed, and entire roof structure stripped away, leaving nothing but vulnerability to the elements.

    Facing this catastrophe without immediate resources or familial support—being husbandless and childless—Chambers turned to divine intervention in her deepest despair. ‘Lord, you see God, mi no have nobody but you,’ she pleaded, confronting the impossibility of financing repairs with her limited means.

    Her salvation emerged through the Middle Quarters New Testament Church of God, where Reverend Leslie Pinnock transformed sympathy into substantive action. Witnessing Chambers washing outdoors in pouring rain because her interior was equally exposed, Pinnock and congregants immediately covered her home with tarpaulin before mobilizing a comprehensive repair initiative.

    The church’s Mission Rise 3.0 project identified three most vulnerable households, including Chambers’ and sixty-nine-year-old pensioner Wilbert Peart’s residence. Peart, surviving on a mere $14,000 monthly pension, described the assistance as fundamentally ‘needed, not wanted’ after the hurricane cracked his walls, destroyed belongings, and compromised his roof.

    During a recent weekend, congregants from Escarpment Road, Middle Quarters and surrounding districts volunteered to reconstruct Chambers’ home. As she witnessed this collective effort, Chambers expressed transcendent gratitude: ‘If God never show up for me, I don’t know how I would manage… In everything, God stand by me and don’t leave me.’

    While these repairs mark significant progress, both survivors acknowledge the long recovery ahead. Peart emphasized that despite profound gratitude, ongoing support remains essential for those living on the brink of poverty. The church’s intervention illustrates how faith communities provide not just spiritual comfort but tangible solutions when natural disasters exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.

  • Trinidadian footballer Shaka Hislop reveals he has prostate cancer

    Trinidadian footballer Shaka Hislop reveals he has prostate cancer

    Former Newcastle United and Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper Shaka Hislop has publicly disclosed his ongoing battle with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. The football pundit shared his personal health journey in a heartfelt video posted to his Instagram account, detailing his diagnosis and treatment to raise awareness among men worldwide.

    Hislop revealed that the cancer was detected approximately 18 months ago during his routine annual physical examination. ‘I consistently insisted on a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test as part of my check-up,’ Hislop explained. ‘This particular time, my PSA levels were elevated, prompting further investigation through MRI and biopsy procedures which confirmed the presence of an aggressive prostate cancer.’

    The former West Ham player underwent a radical prostatectomy—a surgical procedure for partial or complete removal of the prostate gland—on December 6, 2024. However, Hislop’s medical journey continued when follow-up tests six months post-surgery showed rising PSA levels again. Subsequent scans confirmed the cancer had metastasized to his pelvic bone, requiring immediate medication and an intensive seven-and-a-half week radiation therapy regimen which he recently completed.

    Making a special appeal to Caribbean men who statistically face the highest mortality rates from prostate cancer globally, Hislop emphasized: ‘My community, my people, please go get tested. Understand your PSA numbers and track their historical changes. Prostate cancer becomes survivable when detected early, and various treatment options exist. Testing genuinely saves lives—it certainly saved mine.’

    Hislop’s courageous disclosure follows medical research from institutions like Johns Hopkins Medicine which indicates early detection significantly improves prostate cancer outcomes. His advocacy highlights the critical importance of regular health screenings, particularly for high-risk demographic groups.

  • Mom charged for death of pregnant daughter in Michigan

    Mom charged for death of pregnant daughter in Michigan

    MICHIGAN, United States — A Michigan couple stands accused of perpetrating a crime described by prosecutors as ‘evil personified,’ following the murder of the wife’s biological daughter and the surgical removal of the victim’s nearly full-term baby.

    Cortney Bartholomew, 40, and her husband Brad Bartholomew, 47, face multiple felony charges including murder and torture in connection with the death of 22-year-old Rebecca Park. The victim, who was adopted and raised by another family, had been missing for three weeks before her body was discovered in a wooded area.

    According to prosecuting attorney Johanna Carey, the horrific crime unfolded when Brad Bartholomew transported Rebecca to the couple’s residence before forcing her into another vehicle and taking her to a remote forest location. Court documents reveal that the defendants then stabbed the pregnant woman, forced her to lie on the ground, and performed a crude cesarean section to remove the infant. Both mother and child succumbed to their injuries.

    The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office has not yet disclosed a potential motive for the brutal attack. The biological relationship between Cortney Bartholomew and the victim adds a complex dimension to the case, as Park had been adopted and raised separately from her biological mother.

    Both defendants have been denied bond following their arraignment via video conference from jail. The case has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised questions about the circumstances that could lead to such violence within a biological family relationship. Law enforcement continues to investigate whether additional factors, including possible mental health issues or previous conflicts, might have contributed to the tragic outcome.

  • KC seek motivation for second-tier Walker Cup through record title chase

    KC seek motivation for second-tier Walker Cup through record title chase

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant shift for Jamaican school football, defending champions Kingston College (KC) have suffered a stunning elimination from the ISSA Manning Cup quarterfinals, marking their first absence from the tournament’s final eight in twelve years. This unexpected early exit simultaneously opens an unusual opportunity for the team to pursue historic silverware in the secondary Walker Cup competition.

    The ‘Purples’ concluded their round of 16 campaign in third position, resulting in their relegation to the urban-area Walker Cup while forfeiting eligibility for the prestigious all-island Champions Cup. This demotion presents KC with a paradoxical chance to become the most decorated institution in Walker Cup history, currently tied with St George’s College at nine titles each.

    Head Coach Vassell Reynolds expressed measured disappointment while acknowledging the team’s challenging circumstances. “Having started as defending champions and giving our preparation our best shot as a coaching staff, clearly we must feel somewhat disappointed,” Reynolds stated to the Jamaica Observer. He cited the substantial challenge of replacing seven regular starters from last year’s championship squad as a primary factor in their premature exit.

    Statistical analysis reveals KC sustained only one defeat throughout the season – a narrow 1-0 loss to Hydel – while recording two draws. However, defensive vulnerabilities proved decisive, exacerbated by the absence of key personnel including 16-year-old central defender Jaeshawn Edwards, currently trialing in Dubai, and left back Rajae Ximines who departed the football program despite receiving a national under-20 training camp invitation.

    The Walker Cup, controversially restructured as a second-tier competition for teams eliminated in the Manning Cup’s second round, hasn’t featured KC since their 2016 triumph. That previous victory signaled the program’s resurgence after a prolonged drought, ultimately culminating in their 2018 Manning Cup victory – their first in nearly three decades – followed by two additional Manning Cups and last year’s Olivier Shield as all-island champions.

    Coach Reynolds has already begun reframing the team’s objectives: “We feel, having not won the Walker Cup since 2016, that can motivate ourselves and look forward to achieving.” Their campaign commences next Wednesday against St Jago High in a quartet of opening matches that will also feature nine-time joint holder St George’s College versus defending champions Mona High, alongside St Catherine High facing Campion College and Tivoli Gardens meeting Wolmer’s Boys.

  • Jazz Must Be returns to The Summit for second staging

    Jazz Must Be returns to The Summit for second staging

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The cultural landscape of Kingston prepares to embrace an evening of sophisticated musical artistry as vocalist Apryl-Jaye presents the second annual installment of “Island Car Rentals Presents: Jazz Must Be.” The exclusive jazz fusion showcase is scheduled for Thursday, December 4 at The Summit venue, promising two hours of immersive auditory excellence from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with doors opening at 7:00 PM.

    Under the distinguished patronage of Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, this year’s event maintains its commitment to musical excellence while incorporating meaningful philanthropic elements. The production enjoys continued support from title sponsor Island Car Rentals, alongside contributing partners Tamia Carey, Roots Financial Group, and FMA Customs Brokers.

    Audiences can anticipate a meticulously curated program featuring Apryl-Jaye’s signature blend of jazz, bossa nova, and innovative fusion interpretations. The evening’s musical journey will include a special tribute segment arranged by renowned saxophonist Dean Fraser, honoring reggae legends Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Delroy Wilson, and John Holt. Additionally, the program will memorialize black artists who passed in 2025, including celebrated musicians Angie Stone and D’Angelo.

    The event will showcase Jamaica’s exceptional musical talent through an all-star ensemble featuring Keneil Delisser (drums), Dale Brown (bass), Gregory Palmer (keyboard), Okiel McIntyre (trumpet), and Lamont ‘Monty’ Savory (guitar). Organizers have hinted at a surprise guest performance, maintaining tradition from the inaugural event.

    Beyond the musical offerings, the experience includes a Food Village for early arrivals, and the event incorporates charitable components. A portion of proceeds will support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, while an on-site donation drive will collect non-perishable food and personal care items.

    Tickets are exclusively available for pre-sale at Music Mart for $5,000 JMD. Additional event information can be obtained via WhatsApp at 876-540-1020.

  • Gov’t receives Ethiopian delegation on hurricane recovery assistance mission

    Gov’t receives Ethiopian delegation on hurricane recovery assistance mission

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant demonstration of South-South cooperation, the Jamaican government welcomed a high-level Ethiopian delegation on Thursday to formalize international support for hurricane recovery initiatives. The delegation, spearheaded by State Minister His Excellency Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye from the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, arrived to assess damage and identify specific areas where Ethiopian expertise and resources could assist Jamaica’s rehabilitation efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

    The delegation was formally received at Jamaica House by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister. The meeting included key figures such as Permanent Secretary Ambassador Rocky Meade and Commander Alvin Gayle, Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), highlighting the strategic importance of the bilateral engagement.

    Senator Fitz-Henley publicly acknowledged the diplomatic gesture through social media, commending Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his proactive approach in offering support. He emphasized the deep historical connections between the two nations, noting shared ancestry and cultural heritage as foundations for a strengthened partnership. Fitz-Henley expressed confidence that this collaboration would intensify significantly in the coming weeks, months, and years.

    As part of their fact-finding mission, Ambassador Tsegaye was scheduled to conduct firsthand assessments in the severely affected parishes of St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland. This ground-level evaluation aims to align Ethiopia’s assistance with Jamaica’s most pressing post-disaster needs, ensuring targeted and effective international disaster relief cooperation.