In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on Jamaica, the Digicel Group has spearheaded a comprehensive humanitarian campaign to aid recovery efforts across the island’s most devastated regions. The Category 5 storm, which struck on October 28, claimed 32 lives, decimated homes, and crippled critical infrastructure, leaving countless families in dire need.
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President of Suriname says country will not export bauxite under any circumstances
PARAMARIBO, Suriname (CMC) – Suriname’s President Jennifer Greelings-Simons has moved to dispel rumors suggesting that her government is engaged in formal negotiations with the Chinese multinational Chinalco. Speaking to reporters upon her return from Brazil, President Greelings-Simons clarified that while Vice President Gregory Rusland recently met with a Chinalco delegation, these discussions were not indicative of official government talks. ‘Chinalco requested a meeting with the vice president, and that happened. He listened to their proposals, but this does not constitute formal negotiations,’ she stated. The meeting reportedly focused on the bauxite sector, a key industry for Suriname. Earlier, the Directorate for Public Communications (DVC) had announced that the cabinet would renegotiate with Chinalco to secure a more favorable agreement for the country. President Greelings-Simons emphasized that her administration remains committed to protecting Suriname’s interests in any future dealings with foreign entities.
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Guyana to introduce website to report bullying schools
The Ministry of Education in Guyana has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering moral and civic education within the national school curriculum, alongside the introduction of a dedicated website for reporting bullying incidents. Education Minister Sonia Parag announced the plan during a national anti-bullying consultation, emphasizing its role in a broader strategy to eliminate bullying and instill positive values among students. Parag highlighted that moral education is essential for cultivating empathy, kindness, and responsibility in the younger generation. ‘Moral education should serve as the cornerstone for personal growth, helping us become better individuals,’ she stated, underscoring the importance of making acts of kindness and goodwill habitual. As part of this initiative, the Ministry also launched the Management Information System Unit (MISU) platform, a secure digital tool designed to enable students, parents, and teachers to report instances of bullying or harassment effectively.
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Guyanese gov’t outlines new initiatives for increased rice production
The Guyana government has allocated more than GUY$7.2 billion (equivalent to approximately US$28.8 million) to support the rice industry this year. This substantial investment aims to mitigate the impact of declining global rice prices, enhance agricultural yields, and reduce production costs for local farmers. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha highlighted these efforts during a recent engagement with rice farmers in Region Three, emphasizing the government’s commitment to sustaining the sector.
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Review shows no link between paracetamol and autism
A comprehensive review published in the British medical journal BMJ has found no clear evidence linking the use of paracetamol during pregnancy to autism or ADHD in children. This conclusion comes in response to repeated claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who asserted that the common painkiller could increase autism rates. Trump’s comments, urging pregnant women to avoid paracetamol, sparked widespread criticism from the medical community, who warned that such statements could deter women from using one of the safest pain relief options available. The World Health Organisation has also emphasized the lack of robust evidence supporting such a link. The umbrella review, led by a UK-based team of researchers, analyzed all existing scientific studies on the topic and found that previous research suggesting a connection was of ‘low to critically low’ quality. These studies failed to account for confounding factors, such as genetic predispositions, and could not establish a causal mechanism. The review also highlighted the historical underinvestment in women’s health research and called for more rigorous studies. Experts praised the findings, with Professor Dimitrios Siassakos of University College London stating that the review ‘confirms what experts around the globe have been saying.’ Steven Kapp of the University of Portsmouth, an autistic researcher with ADHD, emphasized the importance of improving life for neurodivergent individuals rather than attempting to prevent neurodivergence. Beyond paracetamol, Trump and his vaccine-skeptic Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have made unfounded claims about an autism ‘epidemic,’ which experts attribute to improved diagnostic methods and increased awareness.
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McKenzie saddened by Falmouth’s devastation
FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Following an extensive five-hour tour of Falmouth, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, described the state of the historic town’s infrastructure as “frightening.” The assessment comes in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that wreaked unprecedented havoc across Jamaica, leaving Falmouth in ruins. McKenzie drew parallels between the devastation in Falmouth and the severely impacted capital of St. Elizabeth, Black River, noting that the only advantage Falmouth holds is its ongoing commercial activity. However, the extensive damage to infrastructure remains a grave concern. One of the most distressing sights was the Falmouth Infirmary, which once housed over 100 residents and staff. McKenzie emphasized that the facility is now uninhabitable, and alternative arrangements are being explored to accommodate its former occupants. In contrast, the nearby drop-in center and shelter fared better, sustaining only minor damage and already providing refuge to several individuals. McKenzie also highlighted the severe damage to Falmouth’s famed Georgian architecture, particularly the Falmouth Court House, which serves as the headquarters of the Trelawny Municipal Corporation. He stressed the need to engage with the Minister of Culture to address the restoration of heritage buildings, acknowledging that repairs may not meet current standards due to the extent of the damage. Mayor of Falmouth, C Junior Gager, echoed these concerns, noting the destruction of the main municipal building and suggesting that constructing a new facility on alternative land might be more practical than restoration. Despite the devastation, McKenzie commended the resilience of the Jamaica Fire Brigade in Falmouth, who continue to operate under challenging conditions, even as some firefighters have lost their homes. The minister’s tour is part of the government’s broader damage assessment and emergency relief efforts in areas hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa.
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Marissa Yung Lee on show at Horizons Art Gallery
Horizons Art Gallery is proud to present a captivating new exhibition by Marissa Yung Lee, a self-taught artist renowned for her evocative oil portraits of cultural and traditional mas performers. Titled ‘A Love Letter to Trinidad and Tobago,’ the exhibition showcases Lee’s mastery of oil painting, blending Contemporary Realism with Impressionism to create works that transcend mere representation, evoking deep emotion and mystery. Each piece tells a unique story, capturing fleeting moments through her alla prima brush and knife techniques. Lee’s inspiration stems from the profound connections she forms with her subjects and the inherent beauty and challenge of the medium itself. Her latest collection celebrates the people, culture, and spirit of Trinidad and Tobago, offering both heartfelt tributes and playful twists. Lee’s work has been featured in prestigious venues such as the National Museum and The Art Society of Trinidad & Tobago, and her accolades include a distinction from the Portrait Society of America and a finalist spot in The Almenara 2025 Art Prize in Spain. The exhibition opens on November 11 at 6:30 pm and runs until November 22 at Horizons Art Gallery, 37 Mucurapo Road, St James. Admission is free.
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Women In Art Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago hosts Transformations
The Women In Art Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (WIAOTT) is set to host its 29th annual exhibition, themed ‘Transformations,’ at Arnim’s Art Galleria’s south branch in La Romaine. The event, which runs from November 11 to November 22, will showcase the works of 29 talented female artists, highlighting themes of resilience, transition, and reinvention. Founded in 1996, WIAOTT has been a cornerstone in promoting and empowering women in the visual arts, providing a platform for artistic growth and visibility. This year’s exhibition features a diverse range of media, including acrylic painting, drawing, mixed media, oil, fabric, pastel, architecture, watercolour, and abstract expressions. Participating artists such as Andrea Barry, Bernadette Hospedales, and Gizelle Winter will present their interpretations of personal and collective transformations, reflecting the dynamism of Trinidad and Tobago’s women artists. The exhibition will also include several categories of artist awards, recognizing excellence across various artistic disciplines. Artworks will be available for purchase both at the exhibition and online via the WIAOTT website. For more information, contact 610-9289.
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UTT’s new honorary doctorates
The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) has announced that it will award honorary doctoral degrees to three distinguished citizens at its 2025 graduation ceremony on November 19. The honorees include Peter Elias, who will receive an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts; Israel Khan, who will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws; and Jamwant Maharaj, who will be honored with an honorary Doctor of Science. Additionally, Gilman Figaro, founder and chairman of the Sunshine Awards and a prominent supporter of Caribbean music, will be named an honorary distinguished fellow.
Peter Elias, a renowned figure in the fashion industry, has made significant contributions to couture and Carnival costume design, particularly through his work with The Lost Tribe. His selection marks only the ninth honorary doctorate in fine arts at UTT, with Meiling Esau (2017) being the only other active fashion designer previously honored.
Israel Khan, president of the Criminal Bar Association and founder of Justitia Omnibus Law Chambers, has been a leading figure in the legal field since 1979. In 2023, he was recognized as one of the six most distinguished graduates of the Hugh Wooding Law School on its 50th anniversary. Khan has also served as a tutor at the institution for over three decades.
Jamwant Maharaj, a former chemistry teacher at Naparima College, has authored and published educational books for CSEC and CAPE students. He continues to mentor students through the online platform WEXL, leaving a lasting impact on the field of education.
An honorary doctorate, or honoris causa, is a prestigious recognition of an individual’s lifetime achievements and contributions to society. Unlike traditional academic degrees, it does not require formal scholarship but acknowledges the profound impact of the recipient’s work. This award inverts the conventional educational paradigm by celebrating a body of work that may itself become a subject of academic study.
UTT has a history of honoring influential figures, including Nelson Mandela, who received over 50 honorary degrees for his anti-racism and peace advocacy. Since 2005, UTT has recognized a diverse group of luminaries, such as Geoffrey Holder, Mungal Patasar, and Le Roy Clarke. Notably, only five of these honors have been awarded posthumously, highlighting the importance of celebrating living contributors to society.
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Fatima take RBC Royal Slam basketball crown
Fatima College emerged victorious at the first-ever RBC Royal Slam College’s Basketball Tournament, held on November 9 at the Eastern Regional Indoor Sporting Arena in Tacarigua. In a high-energy championship final, Fatima dominated St Mary’s College with a decisive 122-84 victory, showcasing exceptional teamwork and defensive prowess. The team’s ‘Big Three’—William Francis, Zachary Julien, and Idriis Martin—led the charge, delivering standout performances that left fans in awe. Francis achieved a remarkable triple-double with 28 points, 13 rebounds, 12 steals, seven assists, and three blocks, while Julien topped the scoring charts with 32 points. Martin also shone brightly, contributing 24 points and seven steals. Despite a valiant effort from St Mary’s Nkobi Ince, who scored 32 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, his team fell short. In the third-place playoff, Presentation College San Fernando secured a hard-fought 85-77 win over Queen’s Royal College, thanks to Michael McCarthy’s dominant double-double of 28 points and 24 rebounds. McCarthy’s stellar performance earned him the Tournament MVP award, while Francis was named Finals MVP. The event also featured electrifying halftime performances by the Studio 7 Spartans cheerleaders, adding to the festive atmosphere. The tournament concluded with a celebration of individual excellence, as players like Julien, Martin, Ince, and McCarthy were honored in the All-Star 5 lineup, alongside awards for best defensive player, most promising player, and more.