The opposition party A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has raised significant concerns regarding the Guyana government’s agreement with Coursera to provide upskilling courses for public servants. APNU’s parliamentarian Ganesh Mahipaul announced that a meeting of 12 parliamentarians would determine the best approach to address the issue, whether through a motion, parliamentary questions, or direct engagement with relevant ministries. Mahipaul emphasized that if the government seeks supplementary funding for Coursera, APNU will rigorously question the necessity and effectiveness of the programs. APNU’s statement highlighted the lack of transparency in the contract, including undisclosed costs, procurement methods, and data protection measures for public servants’ personal information. Minister of Public Service and Government Efficiency Zulfikar Ally has yet to respond to these allegations. APNU also criticized the government for adding another standalone program to an already fragmented training landscape, questioning how Coursera aligns with existing initiatives like the University of Guyana and the Guyana Online Academy (GOAL) scholarships. Shadow Education Minister Coretta Mc Donald argued that Coursera’s courses are inadequate for developing the necessary skills and values in Guyanese public servants, advocating instead for the reopening of the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service, which was closed in 2021. Mc Donald emphasized the need for a national institution that fosters professional development, integrity, and patriotism, qualities she believes Coursera cannot provide.
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Bagga police station moves to another temporary location
The Barrouallie Police Station, which was temporarily moved to a house in Peters Hope in February 2021 due to the deteriorating condition of its historic century-old building, is now being relocated once more. This time, it will be housed at the Barrouallie Community Centre. The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) announced that this move is part of its ongoing efforts to provide responsive and accessible policing services. The decision follows extensive consultations with local residents, who emphasized the need for a stronger police presence and easier access to law enforcement services within the town. The RSVGPF stated that the new location offers a secure and spacious facility, enabling officers to operate more efficiently while fostering closer community ties. The police force also revealed that plans are underway to construct a new, permanent police station in Barrouallie, which will further enhance policing capabilities in the Western Division. Additionally, the RSVGPF is advancing efforts to rehabilitate the Layou Police Station, which has been in disrepair for some time, with issues such as vegetation growth on the roof and sewage leaks. The relocation of the Barrouallie Police Station highlights a broader initiative to modernize police facilities across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, ensuring better officer welfare and improved security services. The RSVGPF expressed gratitude to the residents of Barrouallie and surrounding communities for their continued support and cooperation in building safer and more secure neighborhoods.
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APUA Nears Completion of Major Upgrades at Ivan Rodrigues Reverse Osmosis Plant
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its efforts to modernize the nation’s water infrastructure. The Ivan Rodrigues Reverse Osmosis Plant, a cornerstone of this initiative, is nearing the completion of its mainline installation works. This ambitious project, executed in collaboration with the Seven Seas Water Group, represents one of APUA’s largest infrastructure investments in recent years. The upgrades aim to bolster water supply reliability, enhance water quality, and ensure long-term stability for residents across Antigua and Barbuda. On Thursday, key stakeholders, including Minister Melvin Nicholas, APUA CEO John Bradshaw, and representatives from Seven Seas Water, visited the site to witness the successful production of potable water from the upgraded system. Officials hailed this achievement as a pivotal milestone, signaling improved capacity and a more resilient water network. APUA extended its gratitude to its dedicated staff, the Seven Seas Water Group, and the public for their unwavering support and patience during the upgrade process. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to delivering robust systems and a sustainable water supply for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
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CARPHA calls for greater action
In observance of World Diabetes Day, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has issued a compelling appeal to governments, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, workplaces, and individuals across the region to rally behind the global theme, ‘Diabetes and Wellbeing.’ This initiative underscores the campaign’s focus on addressing diabetes in the workplace, curbing its rising prevalence, and mitigating its life-altering complications that affect thousands in the Caribbean. Diabetes, a chronic condition resulting from insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin use, can lead to severe health issues such as nerve damage, cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, blindness, and lower-limb amputations if not properly managed. Globally, diabetes remains a critical health threat, with 1.6 million deaths attributed to it in 2021, nearly half of which occurred before the age of 70. High blood glucose levels also accounted for 11% of cardiovascular deaths. The prevalence of diabetes has doubled since 1990, with 14% of adults living with the condition in 2022. In the Caribbean, diabetes is a significant public health challenge, with the highest prevalence in the Americas at 11.9%. Risk factors such as obesity (23.2%), physical inactivity (31%), and unhealthy diets are also alarmingly high. Dr. Lisa Indar, Executive Director of CARPHA, highlighted the agency’s efforts to combat diabetes through capacity-building initiatives. Over 100 healthcare providers and civil society representatives across five member states have been trained using CARPHA’s Guidelines for the Management of Diabetes in Primary Care in the Caribbean, adding to the 17 member states trained from 2021 to 2022. CARPHA is also set to relaunch an online, on-demand version of this training via a Moodle Learning Management System to enhance accessibility. CARPHA emphasizes that many risk factors for type 2 diabetes are preventable through healthy diets, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol. For those living with diabetes, proper treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular screenings can prevent or delay complications. CARPHA urges member states and partners to expand access to free or affordable diabetes risk screenings, implement or update national diabetes guidelines, promote healthy environments, and engage communities and individuals in prevention and care. Self-management, including monitoring blood glucose levels, adhering to medication, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, is crucial for individuals with diabetes. World Diabetes Day, the largest diabetes awareness campaign globally, unites individuals, healthcare professionals, advocates, policymakers, and the public to raise awareness and take action against diabetes, reaching over 160 countries.
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APNU’s parliamentary leader secretive about PNCR membership, plays down party leadership prospects
Dr Terrence Campbell, the parliamentary leader of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), remained tight-lipped about his membership in the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) during a press conference on Friday. While confirming his affiliation with the PNCR’s Alberttown Group, Campbell declined to disclose the exact date he joined the party, citing it as an internal matter. He emphasized that his focus is on strengthening APNU as a robust opposition rather than pursuing leadership within the PNCR. Despite speculation about his potential candidacy for PNCR leadership, Campbell dismissed such notions, stating his vision is solely directed toward holding the government accountable. He also refuted suggestions that his reluctance to reveal his membership date was linked to fears of being perceived as a newcomer. Campbell, a prominent businessman, previously distanced himself from A New and United Guyana (ANUG) in 2019 following a boycott of his fast-food franchises by APNU+Alliance For Change supporters. He expressed unwavering commitment to PNCR’s ideals, affirming his dedication to the party’s goals and objectives.
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Kahleel Simon of Bolans Laid to Rest
The tight-knit community of Jennings came together on Friday to bid farewell to Kahleel Simon, an 18-year-old from Bolans, whose life was tragically cut short. Simon’s funeral was held at the Cedar Hall Moravian Church, where a somber service was conducted before he was laid to rest. His death, reportedly at the hands of a police officer, has left the community in profound grief and has ignited calls for accountability as investigations into the incident continue. Senator Dwanye George expressed his condolences, labeling Simon’s passing as “heart-breaking” and emphasizing the need for ongoing support for the grieving family and community. As mourners gathered to pay their respects, many voiced their hopes for both healing and justice, underscoring the collective desire for answers and closure in the wake of this devastating loss.
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VIDEO: Three killings in 1 week
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is facing a growing crisis as the homicide count for the year has risen to 36 following three violent deaths in less than a week. Authorities are intensifying efforts to address the surge in violent crime, which has left communities on edge. The most recent incident occurred on Tuesday in Kingstown, where an unidentified adolescent male allegedly stabbed 18-year-old Gary Bute to death. Bute, a resident of Riley and Campden Park, succumbed to his injuries at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital after the attack on Melville and Middle Streets. Detectives are actively searching for the suspect. Earlier, on Sunday, the body of 32-year-old farmer Lee-Chang Anthony was discovered in a shallow grave in Liar Cane, Burgin. Anthony, originally from Long Wall, Kingstown, had been missing since Friday night. Villagers found evidence of violence in his farm hut before uncovering his body in a hole previously dug for a toilet. Police briefly detained three local farmers but released them without charges. The third victim, 25-year-old Shem Walker of Stubbs, was shot and killed on November 5 while traveling in a rented car in Akers. Walker’s death followed threatening comments on his Instagram account five weeks prior. Police are urging anyone with information to contact them at +1784-457-1211 or 999 as investigations into these cases continue.
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Bronto Somohardjo: Generationele corruptie is het echte virus in Suriname
During the second round of the General Political Debates, Bronto Somohardjo, the faction leader of Pertjajah Luhur (PL), launched a scathing critique against what he termed ‘generational corruption’ within Suriname’s political culture. Somohardjo argued that corruption has become an inherited legacy in certain political circles, passed down from one party member to another. He emphasized that some individuals believe power is perpetual, with those who rise to the top never facing accountability.
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Armed Robbery in Lords Bank
A brazen armed robbery unfolded at the Central Transit Garage on Lords Bank Road late Thursday evening, leaving authorities scrambling for leads. The incident, which occurred around 9:10 p.m. on November 13, involved two assailants who confronted watchman Ruben Yam at the facility’s entrance. One of the perpetrators brandished a firearm, while the other wielded a knife, forcing Yam to the rear of the garage where several employees were gathered. The duo made off with an undisclosed sum of cash and personal belongings, including a high-end Samsung Galaxy S21 smartphone valued at $1,200. Despite the swift response from law enforcement, no arrests have been made as of yet. The investigation remains ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident has sparked concerns over safety in the area, prompting calls for heightened security measures.
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Young Voices Drive Health Bill Forward at 5th National Children’s Parliament
On November 14, 2025, Belize’s Fifth Annual National Children’s Parliament convened in Belmopan, marking a significant step forward for youth advocacy in the country. The event, held at the National Assembly, brought together young parliamentarians, Members of Parliament, educators, parents, and other stakeholders to address critical issues affecting children and adolescents. The session coincided with Universal Children’s Month and the launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, emphasizing themes of protection, dignity, and empowerment. A key focus of the day was the introduction of the Adolescent Preventive Health Protection Bill, a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to empower adolescents by granting them independent access to preventive health services and information. The bill, which has already received cabinet approval, mandates health practitioners to adhere to Frazer guidelines when assessing competence, ensures confidentiality, and requires health facilities to adopt adolescent-friendly standards. The proposal sparked vigorous debate among attendees. Opposition Leader Gracelyn Gutierrez expressed theoretical support for the bill’s principle of improving youth access to health services but raised concerns about the potential erosion of family involvement, particularly regarding access to vaccinations, mental health screenings, counseling, and sexual health services for adolescents aged 14 and older without parental consent. Prime Minister Cameera Caliz countered these concerns, highlighting the challenges faced by working parents and the societal stigma surrounding mental and sexual health. She argued that the bill provides a necessary platform for adolescents to voice their concerns and access essential services. Senators also weighed in on the discussion. Business Senator Jamilah Usher emphasized the economic burden of preventable illnesses on Belizean families, warning that without the bill, medical costs would continue to rise, compromising children’s health. NGO Senator Darryl Canul echoed this sentiment, stressing that the bill aims to strengthen family support systems while ensuring the protection of vulnerable youth. The event was organized in collaboration with the National Commission for Families and Children, the Office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology, underscoring the collective effort to advance youth rights and well-being in Belize.