Team Saint Lucia has emerged victorious as the 2025 ECGA Amateur Gross Golf Champions, marking a significant milestone for Golf Saint Lucia Inc. The official celebration, held on October 16 at the Sandals Golf and Country Club, honored the team’s remarkable achievement. The tournament, hosted at the Royal St Kitts Golf Club in St Kitts and Nevis, featured diverse categories, including men’s, seniors, super seniors, and ladies’ divisions. Notably, the Saint Lucian ladies’ team secured a win in their category, with Lisa Garner clinching the individual title. Yadhu Urs, a Saint Lucian residing in the United States, dominated the men’s individual tournament with impressive scores of 72 and 69. Coach Tim Mangal, in an interview with sports commentator Dr. Joseph Reds Perreira, highlighted the team’s meticulous preparation, strategic planning, and adaptability as key factors behind their success. Training commenced in August, building on Saint Lucia’s previous victories in 2003 and 2023. Mangal emphasized the importance of teamwork and collaboration, with players supporting each other to refine their skills. Despite challenges such as slower greens, the team’s resilience and preparation ensured their triumph. Looking ahead, Mangal expressed a commitment to promoting golf in Saint Lucia, particularly among the youth, aiming to expand participation and elevate the sport’s competitiveness.
作者： admin
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UWI Five Islands Students Launch Campus Newsletter to Amplify Student Voices
The Frigate Post, a dynamic publication at the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC), has become a cornerstone of campus life, celebrating student creativity, achievements, and community spirit. Conceived as a platform to foster connection and storytelling, the publication aims to reflect the diverse talents and experiences of its student body.
‘Our mission was straightforward: to unite the campus through compelling narratives while showcasing the ingenuity and accomplishments of our students,’ explained the editorial committee. ‘We envisioned a space that was both entertaining and enlightening, where every student could find a piece of their own journey.’
Each edition of The Frigate Post is meticulously crafted by a dedicated team of student volunteers who invest countless hours to ensure the content is accurate, high-quality, and innovative. Beyond its serious features, the publication also includes lighthearted elements such as the ‘Joke of the Day,’ capturing the lively and spirited atmosphere of UWI FIC.
‘We take immense pride in the progress we’ve made and are eager to continue evolving,’ the committee shared. ‘Every issue is a snapshot of our campus’s unique story, and we’re thrilled to see where the future takes us.’
The Frigate Post is now accessible online and actively encourages submissions from all UWI FIC students, inviting them to contribute their voices and perspectives to this growing campus legacy.
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PM Browne: Tenders Board Members to Be Rotated for Accountability
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has unveiled plans to implement a rotation system for members of the Tenders Board and other key public offices as part of a broader strategy to enhance governance and prevent complacency. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne emphasized the need for balance and accountability in oversight roles. He clarified that the initiative is not a response to any wrongdoing but a proactive measure to ensure no individual becomes too entrenched in their position. ‘The Tenders Board, for example, I’m going to rotate the people serving the Tenders Board too. They must not get comfortable,’ Browne stated. He extended this policy to senior officials, including Diane Black-Layne at the Department of Environment, and even within his own Cabinet, to foster growth and development among other capable individuals. This move aligns with Browne’s ‘national reset’ initiative, launched following a government vehicle procurement controversy. The reset encompasses reforms in the Treasury, Public Works Department, and procurement systems to bolster transparency and public trust. Browne reiterated his commitment to creating a culture of renewal and balance in leadership roles, asserting, ‘What I want to ensure is that this government, this country, is governed better.’
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Senator Lamin Newton Supports Irene B. Williams Students Ahead of Panorama
Senator Lamin Newton has stepped forward to support students from the Irene B. Williams Secondary School by funding their uniforms for the upcoming Schools Panorama competition. In a heartfelt statement, Newton emphasized his unwavering dedication to youth development, stating that he was “called upon to assist” and acted “without hesitation.” He highlighted the importance of nurturing young minds, saying, “We must always be willing to assist our youth, inspire them, and provide the necessary guidance required to make them model citizens.” Newton also extended his best wishes to the students, invoking “God’s continued guidance” for their success in the competition. The annual Panorama event, a celebrated platform for young steelpan musicians across Antigua and Barbuda, is set to bring together talent from various schools, fostering cultural expression and community spirit.
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Divali ver van huis: Licht en hoop in een vreemde stad
This Diwali, I found myself thousands of miles away from home, celebrating alone in Beijing. Despite the physical distance, the warmth of the festival and the connections with friends and colleagues from Bangladesh, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka made the day special. Although my plans for the festival were disrupted by a busy schedule, I embraced the solitude and reflected on the lives of those who face unimaginable hardships. Sending Diwali blessings to friends like Tanzil, Vignesh, Mahdi, Danish, and Sumudu, I hoped for brighter days ahead for them. The festival fell a day earlier in Beijing due to the time difference, but the spirit of Diwali transcended borders. My colleague Marlon and I ventured out to explore the city, braving the cold autumn weather. We indulged in shopping for warm clothes and discovered affordable deals in the bustling malls. In the afternoon, we opted for a traditional Chinese massage, choosing to cycle through Beijing’s streets. The city, once known as the ‘bicycle capital of the world,’ has seen a resurgence in cycling culture, driven by sustainability and efforts to reduce pollution. Despite the chaotic traffic, we navigated the streets with ease, using shared bikes unlocked via a mobile app. A mishap with my phone mid-ride reminded me of its indispensability in daily life here. After the massage, we cycled back through the chilly evening, marveling at the city’s vibrant lights. As the thousands of lights of Beijing continued to shine, I realized that light and hope are universal, even when far from home.
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Mobility boost: Govt to expand wheelchair-accessible transport fleet
Barbados is taking significant strides to improve transportation accessibility for its citizens with disabilities. The government has announced plans to expand its fleet of wheelchair-accessible buses, with the first two vehicles expected to arrive by the end of 2025. This initiative, revealed by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Mark Franklin, during the Caribbean Disability Conference, underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the mobility challenges faced by disabled individuals. Franklin emphasized that transportation remains a critical priority, particularly for schoolchildren and others who rely on specialized services. The National Disabilities Unit (NDU), which currently operates five vehicles—only two of which are fully wheelchair-accessible—will receive new buses equipped with durable lifts designed for daily use. Wayne Nurse, Director of the NDU, confirmed that the new vehicles will accommodate eight to 12 passengers, including wheelchair users, and will be capable of navigating smaller residential areas. The initiative is part of the government’s broader 2023–2030 National Policy for Persons with Disabilities and aligns with recent rights-based legislation aimed at fostering inclusion and accessibility. Franklin highlighted that breaking barriers requires more than policy—it demands empathy, tangible support, and a commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of ability, have equal opportunities to participate in society.
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Grenada’s cultural voice resonates on world stage in China
Kelvin Jacob, Chief Cultural Officer of Grenada’s Ministry of Tourism, Creative Economy, and Culture, delivered a compelling address at the World Poetry, Dance, Music, and Visual Arts Salon during the 3rd Liangzhu Forum in Hangzhou, China. Describing Grenada as ‘a small island with a vast soul,’ Jacob positioned the nation as a creative hub that bridges diverse histories and geographies. His presentation, titled ‘Shared Beauty, Shared Civilisation,’ emphasized the unifying power of culture and creativity in a fragmented world. Jacob highlighted Grenada’s rich cultural tapestry, where African rhythms, European languages, and indigenous traditions coexist harmoniously. He also underscored the island’s growing cultural partnership with China, citing initiatives such as the Confucius Institute at T A Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) and artistic exchanges between Grenadian and Chinese performers. Jacob praised these collaborations as ‘cultural diplomacy at its finest,’ advocating for artists as ‘architects of peace’ who build bridges where politics often create borders. Beyond the forum, Jacob’s itinerary includes cultural and educational exchanges in Yiwu, Beijing, and Shanghai, aimed at strengthening ties in art, heritage, and tourism. The Ministry lauded his participation as a milestone in Grenada’s global cultural influence. Jacob concluded with a powerful message: ‘If we can share our beauty, we can shape our civilisation,’ urging global leaders to prioritize creativity in fostering mutual understanding and progress.
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Former APNU+AFC parliamentarian, other person arrested with marijuana in bus
In a significant law enforcement operation, former APNU+AFC parliamentarian Devin Sears was apprehended late Monday night after police discovered over 300 kilograms of marijuana in a bus he was driving. The arrest occurred on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway near Bamia, where the vehicle was intercepted during a routine patrol. Sears, a 39-year-old educator and political activist from Mackenzie, Linden, was accompanied by Albert Sandy, a 69-year-old farmer from Tacama Waterfront, Upper Berbice River. The bus, registered under the Region 10 Tourism Committee Inc., was subjected to a search after Sears exhibited suspicious behavior, including profuse sweating. Upon inspection, authorities uncovered 22 black plastic bags and four large brown canvas bags filled with suspected cannabis. While Sears remained silent during the arrest, Sandy admitted ownership of the narcotics, claiming he had paid Sears to transport him to Parika. Both men were taken into custody and are awaiting charges as the investigation continues.
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LISTEN: Pringle Denies Involvement in Vehicle Scandal, Calls Allegations Political Distraction
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has vehemently refuted allegations linking him to the ongoing controversy surrounding government vehicle procurement, labeling the accusations as politically driven distractions. In a strongly worded audio statement, Pringle demanded that those making the claims provide concrete evidence and take full responsibility for their assertions. He emphasized that accountability should be based on verifiable facts rather than unsubstantiated rumors. Pringle also called for an independent investigation not only into the vehicle procurement issue but also into the broader operations of the Public Works Department, hinting at potential systemic irregularities. He argued that focusing solely on the vehicle scandal without examining the department’s overall conduct would be shortsighted. Additionally, Pringle dismissed calls for his resignation as premature and unfounded, urging a measured approach to addressing the controversy. His remarks come at a time when the vehicle procurement scandal has sparked widespread public debate and cross-party scrutiny, raising questions about transparency and governance.
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Govt unveils $390M Queen Elizabeth Hospital expansion project
The Barbadian government has secured a $195 million loan to fund a significant expansion of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), a move expected to increase the facility’s capacity by approximately 40%. Health Minister Senator Jerome Walcott announced the groundbreaking initiative on Monday, highlighting that construction is slated to commence before the end of the year. The project, financed through a deferred payment agreement with a Chinese consortium, carries an interest rate of 3.5% over an 11-year term. The loan agreement was formalized during a ceremony at Government Headquarters. The expansion will add 19,320 square metres to the existing 50,000-square-metre hospital, featuring two new towers connected to the current structure via a bridge over Martindale’s Road. One tower will house a state-of-the-art laboratory, four new wards with 96 additional beds, a burn unit, and expanded outpatient facilities, while the second will include a cutting-edge cancer treatment center and administrative offices. The oncology unit will be equipped with advanced technologies, such as a linear accelerator, brachytherapy, a PET scanner, and a cyclotron, elevating cancer care in Barbados to unprecedented levels. Additionally, the project will address long-standing staff requests by incorporating amenities like a gym and a crèche for nurses’ children. The new laboratory is designed to tackle emerging diseases and antimicrobial resistance, addressing challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Construction is estimated to take 42 months, with 60% of the labor provided by Chinese contractors and 40% by local workers. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn emphasized the project’s significance as a major social investment, underscoring its role in improving healthcare accessibility, reducing waiting times, and enhancing working conditions for medical professionals. The expansion is part of a broader health system transformation, including polyclinic refurbishments and equipment upgrades, funded by the Saudi Fund for Development and Barbadian credit unions. Straughn assured citizens that the project reflects prudent fiscal management and will yield long-term benefits for the nation’s healthcare ecosystem.