Carib Scope

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  • UEH : A Year of Governance, Executive Council Review

    UEH : A Year of Governance, Executive Council Review

    In a striking demonstration of institutional resilience, Haiti’s State University (UEH) has navigated a year of profound challenges under the leadership of Rector Dieuseul Prédélus. Despite operating in one of the world’s most severe security crises that caused significant material damage and operational disruptions, UEH’s Executive Council has successfully maintained educational continuity through innovative measures.

    The university implemented comprehensive digital solutions including distributing SIM cards with 30GB monthly data and tablets to students, while equipping full-time professors with Starlink internet kits. Administrative offices were temporarily relocated to preserve university services, and a groundbreaking health insurance protocol was established for students through partnership with OFATMA.

    Administrative modernization became a cornerstone achievement with the launch of a fully online admissions platform, digitization of archives, creation of a digital library, and deployment of a new website with centralized academic database.

    Internationally, under Vice-Rector Predner Duvivier’s guidance, UEH forged strategic partnerships across four continents, including collaborations with York University, Laval University, and Elms College focused on joint degrees and international mobility. The institution also introduced a new Master’s program in Public Policy Analysis at FDSE while streamlining diploma processing.

    The university’s ambitious 2025-2029 Strategic Plan outlines five transformative pillars: enhanced Research & Innovation through increased funding and an AI Research Center; improved Student Life with expanded services and facilities; Governance reform through new organic laws and transparency; Decentralization via campus development; and Human Capital investment through salary increases and better benefits.

    Student representative Ms. Marc-Lyse Cantave noted that UEH has transitioned from crisis management to fundamental reform, while staff member Bertil Victorin described the changes as a ‘glimmer of hope.’ This foundational year positions knowledge as the ultimate lever of Haiti’s sovereignty despite ongoing national instability.

  • DNL: Cassavecrisis, overheid laat hoofdvoedsel binnenland instorten

    DNL: Cassavecrisis, overheid laat hoofdvoedsel binnenland instorten

    Suriname is confronting a severe agricultural emergency as an aggressive cassava disease continues to devastate crops across the nation after nearly two years of uncontrolled spread. The viral infection, identified as cassava mosaic disease, has reached epidemic proportions, destroying vast agricultural fields and threatening food security for thousands of families.

    The pathogen, which causes severe leaf discoloration, growth stagnation, and drastic yield reduction, spreads rapidly through contaminated plant material and insect vectors such as whiteflies. What began as an agricultural concern has now escalated into a full-blown national crisis, with once-fertile fields transformed into barren landscapes without harvestable produce.

    Cassava serves as the staple food for interior communities and remains a cherished crop nationwide for producing traditional foods including bojo and chips. The escalating disease now directly endangers the nutritional security of these populations, creating acute food shortages in remote regions.

    Despite repeated warnings from agricultural experts and clear recommendations to declare a phytosanitary emergency—mirroring responses implemented in neighboring Brazil and French Guiana—the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries has largely limited its response to media statements. The absence of coordinated action has facilitated mass disease propagation across agricultural regions.

    The Scientific Bureau of DNL, through chairman Rakesh Jhagroe, has issued an urgent call for immediate government intervention. Their comprehensive demands include: immediate destruction of infected fields; halting cassava cutting imports; producing disease-free planting material through CELOS; providing direct support to interior farmers; establishing cross-border collaboration with Brazil and French Guiana; creating a national emergency command for coordination; and implementing intensive awareness campaigns for village communities and agricultural workers.

    Without immediate national mobilization, Suriname stands on the brink of complete cassava production collapse, potentially eliminating the primary food source for thousands of households. Delayed action could precipitate a humanitarian disaster with far-reaching consequences for the nation’s food sovereignty and rural livelihoods.

  • Democratic People’s Movement to hold its first congress

    Democratic People’s Movement to hold its first congress

    The Democratic People’s Movement (DPM) is poised to mark a significant milestone in Grenada’s political landscape with its inaugural congress scheduled for Sunday, 22 March at the Grenada Trade Centre. This foundational gathering will assemble delegates from all 15 constituencies to establish the party’s national executive leadership, formally ratify its constitution, and introduce its initial cohort of electoral candidates.

    The timing of DPM’s organizational launch occurs amidst increasing political competition, with the opposition New National Party (NNP) having already declared a complete slate of 15 candidates. The ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) is similarly expected to contest all constituencies. Further complicating the political field, the newly established People’s National Party (PNP) under former senator and minister Jonathan La Crette has entered the arena, though it has not yet revealed its candidate roster.

    Interim Chairman Alister Bain confirmed that while the party will not immediately disclose its full candidate lineup, the DPM intends to compete comprehensively across all constituencies. “We are prepared to contest every constituency and to assume national governance,” Bain stated, emphasizing the party’s commitment to inclusive leadership that prominently features youth and women in decision-making roles.

    The movement has developed its policy platform through extensive community consultations, employing what it describes as a “bottom-up process” to identify candidates and prioritize practical outcomes. Core policy focuses include sustainable employment opportunities, food security initiatives, and accessible healthcare systems.

    With the next general election constitutionally mandated by 2027 but subject to earlier calling, Grenada’s political environment continues to intensify as multiple parties position themselves for electoral contention.

  • Dominican Republic will host international meeting on sea turtle conservation

    Dominican Republic will host international meeting on sea turtle conservation

    Santo Domingo will transform into the epicenter of marine conservation efforts as the Dominican Republic prepares to host the prestigious Annual Meeting of the Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network (Widecast) from March 26-29, 2026. This pivotal gathering will unite scientific experts and conservationists from across the Caribbean basin to address critical challenges facing endangered sea turtle populations.

    The Ministry of Environment’s Vice Ministry of Coastal and Marine Resources confirmed the four-day symposium will facilitate unprecedented regional collaboration. Widecast represents a formidable coalition of conservation professionals spanning more than 40 nations and territories, collectively working to reverse population declines through scientifically-grounded management strategies.

    Central to the event’s mission is advancing technical exchange and scientific cooperation throughout the Wider Caribbean region. The network’s coordinated approach emphasizes capacity building and knowledge sharing to enhance conservation outcomes for multiple threatened sea turtle species.

    A dedicated session on March 27 will spotlight the Dominican Republic’s conservation initiatives, featuring comprehensive presentations from national institutions. These will showcase monitoring methodologies, community engagement programs, and educational campaigns implemented throughout the country’s coastal regions. Discussion will focus on identifying both persistent challenges and emerging opportunities in species protection.

    The urgency of these efforts is underscored by recent conservation data. During 2025, environmental authorities monitored 237 leatherback and hawksbill sea turtle nests across Dominican beaches. Conservationists implemented strategic interventions including the careful relocation of 71 vulnerable nests for protected incubation, while 166 nests remained in their natural habitats. These efforts culminated in the successful emergence of 635 hatchlings, demonstrating tangible progress in regional preservation initiatives.

  • Fundación Movido brings together traffic leaders to transform the road culture of motorcyclists in the DR

    Fundación Movido brings together traffic leaders to transform the road culture of motorcyclists in the DR

    The Dominican Republic has initiated a comprehensive national effort to combat its escalating road safety crisis through the First Road Safety Congress for Motorcyclists, titled “Safe Course.” Organized by the Dominican Road Mobility Foundation (Movido), the landmark event convened at the High Technology building of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo’s Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, bringing together the nation’s foremost transportation authorities and safety experts.

    The congress centered on the critical premise that “investing in road safety is not an expense, but an investment in human lives, productivity and social welfare.” This foundational concept guided discussions among key participants including Engineer Omar Segura, Dean of UASD’s Faculty of Engineering and Architecture; Joel Gneco, Director of Transit at the National Institute of Transit and Land Transport (Intrant); and Franklin Glass, Executive President of the Dominican Chamber of Insurers and Reinsurers (Cadoar).

    Engineer Segura delivered a technical analysis highlighting how street design directly impacts accident rates, noting that “the motorcycle is highly sensitive to the environment of life.” He explained that common road conditions like potholes or inadequate drainage significantly reduce grip, creating potentially fatal hazards for motorcyclists. Segura proposed five strategic solutions: implementing inclusive road design standards, ensuring continuous pavement maintenance, adapting protective metal railings specifically for motorcycle safety, applying effective technological controls, and strengthening specialized education programs.

    Complementing the engineering perspective, psychologist Ofelia Mera addressed the human factors in road safety, emphasizing that on-the-road behavior reflects drivers’ personality traits and cognitive abilities. She defined risk perception as a “cognitive-emotional process through which traffic users interpret, assess the probability of suffering the accident, and the magnitude and consequences.”

    Franklin Glass presented startling comparative data, revealing that while the COVID-19 pandemic prompted nationwide lockdowns after causing 4,200 deaths over eighteen months, the country records approximately 3,400 annual traffic fatalities without comparable economic disruption. Glass highlighted that only 38% of motorcyclists carry insurance and proposed developing accessible, tailored policies covering health, life, accident, and theft protection.

    The congress concluded with a practical emergency response drill conducted by Civil Defense personnel, while recognizing contributions from transportation advocates Maribel Bellapart, Miguel Franjul, and Yindhira Taveras.

  • PAHO en India ondersteunen Suriname met ICT-middelen voor moeder- en kindzorg

    PAHO en India ondersteunen Suriname met ICT-middelen voor moeder- en kindzorg

    Suriname’s healthcare system has received a significant technological enhancement with the donation of ten desktop computers aimed at strengthening the prevention of mother-to-child disease transmission. The equipment was formally handed over through a collaborative initiative between the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the Government of India.

    The official transfer ceremony witnessed the presence of Indian Ambassador Subhash P. Gupta, with Director Rakesh Gajadhar Sukul from Suriname’s Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labour accepting the equipment on behalf of the nation. This contribution forms part of the regional project ‘Strengthening the EMTCT Strategy with Maternal and Child Health Services,’ which targets the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B across Caribbean nations.

    The computer systems will be deployed across multiple healthcare facilities in Suriname, including the Regional Health Service (RGD), Medical Mission, Academic Hospital Paramaribo, ‘s Lands Hospital, St. Vincentius Hospital, Diakonessenhuis, Mungra Medical Center, and the Bureau of Public Health Care.

    This digital infrastructure upgrade will enhance data management capabilities at both primary care and hospital levels, significantly improving continuity of care for pregnant women and newborns. The technology will facilitate better monitoring of health indicators and enable evidence-based policy development, ultimately contributing to reduced maternal and child mortality rates.

    Ambassador Gupta emphasized the importance of international cooperation during the ceremony, stating India’s commitment to deepening relations with Suriname through joint health initiatives. He also acknowledged PAHO’s crucial role in supporting healthcare efforts throughout Suriname and the broader region.

    PAHO/WHO reaffirmed its dedication to improving access to essential healthcare services and strengthening partnerships, with the ultimate goal of completely eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B throughout the Americas.

  • People being turned away amidst Public Assistance review — Peters

    People being turned away amidst Public Assistance review — Peters

    A significant controversy has emerged in St. Vincent and the Grenadines regarding the administration of social welfare programs, with opposition senator Keisal Peters alleging that eligible citizens are being systematically denied public assistance during an ongoing government review process.

    Senator Peters, who previously served as Minister of National Mobilisation with oversight of the Public Assistance program, expressed concerns through her party’s radio broadcast. While acknowledging the legitimacy of conducting program reviews, she emphasized that such administrative processes should not result in the suspension of financial support to vulnerable populations.

    The current Social Welfare Minister, Shevern John, had announced during February’s 2026 Budget Debate that her ministry would undertake a comprehensive review of Public Assistance recipient lists. The government simultaneously initiated an official audit of the social welfare system, stating intentions to remove ineligible beneficiaries while promoting economic independence among recipients.

    This development follows the New Democratic Party administration’s recent increase of monthly Public Assistance payments from EC$360 to $500. However, Peters contends that the government’s underlying motive involves fiscal constraints rather than genuine welfare improvement. She argues that budget allocations are insufficient to cover both the increased payments and other ministry grants.

    The qualification process for Public Assistance involves a specialized board that evaluates applicants based on stringent criteria, including age (65+), disability status, or medical inability to work. Applicants must provide documented evidence to board members who deliberate on eligibility determinations.

    Peters highlighted that when the previous Unity Labour Party government conducted a similar review in 2022, interim payments continued uninterrupted for those awaiting determination. She claims that under the current administration, individuals are being turned away without temporary support, prompting her public appeal for improved treatment of vulnerable citizens.

  • Editorial: Celebrating Culinary Skills – Why Akim Francis Deserves the GIMIES People’s Choice Award

    Editorial: Celebrating Culinary Skills – Why Akim Francis Deserves the GIMIES People’s Choice Award

    The authentic tourism experience of Saint Lucia extends far beyond its picturesque landscapes, finding profound expression through its distinctive culinary flavors, creative innovations, and exceptional hospitality. Leading this gastronomic movement is entrepreneur Akim Francis, founder of the celebrated venture ‘Bursting with Flavors AKA 5 Star,’ who has become instrumental in translating the island’s cultural essence into memorable dining encounters.

    Francis brings extensive expertise from the hotel industry, where he cultivated rigorous standards for quality, artistic presentation, and superior service. These principles now form the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial endeavor, which transcends conventional dining to offer immersive culinary journeys that capture the authentic spirit of Saint Lucian warmth and generosity.

    Through Five Star, Francis crafts meticulously prepared dishes that resonate with both residents and international visitors. His culinary philosophy intertwines food with cultural storytelling and creative expression, showcasing the island’s vibrant personality. Beyond the kitchen, Francis employs dynamic digital content to highlight Saint Lucia’s culinary artistry and its welcoming community atmosphere.

    His contributions to promoting authentic local experiences have strengthened Saint Lucia’s tourism appeal, creating lasting impressions of the island’s cultural and gastronomic richness. This dedication has earned Francis a nomination for the GIMIES People’s Choice Award, recognizing his commitment to service excellence and his passionate promotion of Saint Lucian cuisine globally.

    Public voting now open through social media platforms offers supporters the opportunity to acknowledge an entrepreneur who proudly shares his nation’s flavors and hospitality with the world.

  • Editorial: Celebrating Innovation – Why Avelyn Joseph Deserves the GIMIES People’s Choice Award

    Editorial: Celebrating Innovation – Why Avelyn Joseph Deserves the GIMIES People’s Choice Award

    Avelyn Joseph has emerged as a transformative figure in Saint Lucia’s tourism sector, demonstrating how entrepreneurial innovation can enhance the island’s appeal as a family-friendly destination. The communications professional turned entrepreneur founded The Happy Nest Baby Gear Rental Service, addressing a previously overlooked niche in the travel market.

    Joseph’s business provides traveling families with access to premium, safety-certified baby equipment during their Saint Lucian vacations. This practical solution eliminates the logistical challenges parents face when transporting essential childcare items, allowing them to travel lighter while ensuring their children’s comfort and safety. The service significantly improves the visitor experience while supporting the broader hospitality industry.

    The impact of Joseph’s innovative approach has garnered significant recognition within the tourism sector. She has received two nominations for the prestigious GIMIES Tourism Innovation Award, highlighting her success in developing creative solutions that strengthen Saint Lucia’s tourism offerings. Her business model represents a case study in identifying market gaps and developing services that benefit both visitors and local tourism stakeholders.

    Joseph’s journey exemplifies determination and visionary thinking, demonstrating how young professionals can shape industry evolution through entrepreneurial initiative. By creating opportunities where none previously existed, she has enhanced Saint Lucia’s competitive positioning in the family travel market.

    The tourism community is now rallying support for Joseph’s nomination for the GIMIES People’s Choice Award, recognizing her trailblazing contributions to making Saint Lucia more accessible and welcoming for international families. Voting is available through the official GIMIES social media channels.

  • Editorial: Celebrating Excellent Guest Experience – Why Heidi St Clair Deserves the GIMIES People’s Choice Award

    Editorial: Celebrating Excellent Guest Experience – Why Heidi St Clair Deserves the GIMIES People’s Choice Award

    Beyond scenic landscapes and luxury accommodations, the tourism industry’s true excellence often manifests through dedicated professionals who ensure exceptional guest experiences. Heidi St Clair has emerged as such a transformative figure in Saint Lucia’s hospitality sector, where her specialized childcare services have redefined family vacation standards.

    Operating through her enterprise St Clair’s Siting Services, this entrepreneurial caregiver has established a paradigm of professional childcare within the tourism ecosystem. Her services enable parents to fully immerse in their vacation experiences while their children receive nurturing supervision in secure, stimulating environments. This critical support infrastructure significantly enhances the service quality and competitive advantage of hotels and resorts throughout the island.

    St Clair’s innovative approach to tourism childcare earned regional recognition when she was nominated among the OECS “30 Under 30 in Entrepreneurship” in 2016 through the Youth Empowerment Strategy (YES) program. This accolade acknowledged both her business acumen and her dedication to professionalizing childcare services within the Caribbean tourism industry.

    The childcare specialist distinguishes herself through profound commitment to children’s wellbeing and developmental needs. She maintains that every child deserves emotionally supportive and enriching environments, even during temporary vacation stays. Through attentive communication with parents, continuous staff training, and service refinement, St Clair has cultivated an operation grounded in trust, compassion, and professional excellence.

    These qualities make her an ideal candidate for the GIMIES People’s Choice Award, which celebrates individuals making substantial contributions to their industries and communities. St Clair’s nomination reflects her dual impact on tourism excellence and childhood development, positioning her as a deserving recipient of this public recognition.

    The award committee encourages public participation in honoring St Clair’s ongoing contributions to family tourism and entrepreneurial achievement. Supporters can cast votes through official GIMIES social media channels, including Instagram and Facebook, where dedicated voting portals have been established to facilitate the selection process.