Carib Scope

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  • UWI Launches 2026 Council Meetings, Showcasing Year-in-Review Achievements and Strategic Priorities

    UWI Launches 2026 Council Meetings, Showcasing Year-in-Review Achievements and Strategic Priorities

    KINGSTON, JAMAICA – The University of the West Indies (UWI) initiates its comprehensive 2026 Annual Council Meetings series starting March 6 from its Mona Campus headquarters. This governance tradition marks a significant moment of institutional accountability for the Caribbean’s premier higher education institution.

    Professor Densil Williams, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal, will inaugurate the proceedings with a detailed review of the 2024-2025 academic year. His presentation, scheduled for 9:00 AM Jamaica time, will encompass research breakthroughs, operational metrics, student demographics, and stakeholder engagement initiatives across the university network.

    The subsequent weeks will witness consecutive council gatherings across UWI’s five physical campuses and its digital Global Campus platform. These deliberative sessions will evaluate institutional performance metrics, financial accountability reports, and strategic direction for the multi-campus university system that serves 17 Caribbean governments.

    This annual exercise in institutional transparency gains particular significance following UWI’s recent recognition by Times Higher Education, which placed the university among the top 3.6% of global higher education institutions. This ranking, benchmarked against approximately 35,000 universities worldwide, underscores UWI’s international academic standing.

    All council meetings will be publicly accessible through UWI’s digital broadcasting platform (uwitv.global) and dedicated Flow Channels, maintaining the university’s commitment to public engagement. Each session will conclude with structured media question-and-answer segments, allowing journalists to submit inquiries through designated interactive channels.

    The complete 2026 meeting schedule includes: Mona Campus (March 6), Cave Hill Campus (March 13), Global Campus (March 18), St. Augustine Campus (March 25), Five Islands Campus (March 26), and the culminating University Council Meeting on May 8.

  • Parents advocate welcomes free breakfast move but urges clear planning

    Parents advocate welcomes free breakfast move but urges clear planning

    In a significant endorsement of educational reform, Barbados’ Group of Concerned Parents has applauded the government’s forthcoming universal free breakfast program for primary schools, characterizing it as a crucial intervention addressing socioeconomic barriers to student achievement. The initiative, scheduled for nationwide implementation in September 2026, represents the latest evolution in the nation’s nine-decade tradition of school nutrition programs that began with milk and crackers in the 1930s before transitioning to hot lunches in 1963.

    Spokeswoman Paula Ann Moore emphasized the program’s recognition of the tangible challenges confronting financially disadvantaged children. “No child can learn properly when they are hungry,” Moore stated, connecting nutritional deficits to behavioral issues observed in educational and social settings. She noted that many children exhibiting deviant behavior originate from households struggling with provision of basic necessities.

    Beyond addressing hunger, the breakfast initiative promises practical benefits for school logistics. Moore highlighted potential alleviation of cafeteria congestion, suggesting that universal morning meal access could eliminate the protracted lunchtime queues that currently consume entire lunch periods. This operational efficiency could simultaneously assist families in morning planning through guaranteed nutritional access.

    However, the parents’ group issued measured cautions regarding program execution. Success determinants include adequate financial allocation, realistic timelines, adherence to nutritional standards, and careful implementation to prevent stigmatization should means-testing be introduced despite the program’s universal designation. Moore posed critical implementation questions: “How will we measure the success of this school breakfast initiative? Adequate planning with realistic timelines, adequate financial and other logistical resources, and accordance with the school nutrition policy ensuring healthy food is provided—all of which aren’t cheap—are all essential for long-term sustainability.”

    The breakfast program constitutes one component within a broader education transformation project whose comprehensive documentation the group has requested be made public. Drawing parallels to Jamaica’s 2021 Education Reform Report, Moore advocated for transparency to ensure stakeholder alignment in this “critical backbone of our national development.”

    This initiative continues Barbados’ distinctive tradition of educational investment within the Caribbean Community, including universally free secondary education, textbook loan schemes, and existing meal programs. Moore characterized this consistent policy focus as “unique in CARICOM, if not globally,” particularly for a small developing nation.

    The group concluded with cautious optimism, expressing willingness to collaborate with authorities to realize the broader education transformation, while acknowledging that ultimate validation will emerge through implementation: “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.”

  • Republic Bank to close two southern branches, move into former Scotiabank Rockley

    Republic Bank to close two southern branches, move into former Scotiabank Rockley

    Republic Bank (Barbados) Limited has announced a strategic consolidation of its south coast operations, merging its Worthing and Wildey branches into a newly established facility at Coconut Walk in Rockley. The move, which utilizes the premises previously occupied by Scotiabank, is positioned by the bank as a strategic initiative to enhance operational efficiency while safeguarding customer service quality and preserving employment.

    Carlene Seudat, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, confirmed the operational timeline: the Worthing branch will cease operations at the end of this month, followed by the closure of the Wildey location on April 30. The new flagship branch at Coconut Walk is slated to open its doors on May 4, 2024.

    The consolidation will impact an estimated 15,000 customers previously served by the two closing branches. However, bank officials emphasize that full banking services will remain accessible across the institution’s entire network. Customers are being assured of a seamless transition with no changes to their account terms or conditions.

    To modernize the customer experience, the new branch will feature a significantly upgraded technological infrastructure. The design includes a more open, digitally-focused layout equipped with four Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)—three attached to the building and one drive-through facility. This expansion in self-service options contrasts with the planned removal of ATMs from the closing Worthing and Wildey locations.

    In addressing workforce concerns, Ms. Seudat provided explicit assurances that the operational merger would not result in staff redundancies. Through extensive engagement with both employees and union representatives that began last year, the bank has developed a redeployment strategy. All affected staff members from the closing branches will be absorbed into the new Rockley facility or transferred to the bank’s five other remaining branches across the island.

    The bank is concurrently encouraging customers to adopt its digital banking platforms and expanded ATM network, reflecting evolving consumer preferences toward remote banking solutions. This consolidation represents Republic Bank’s broader strategic shift toward modernized banking environments that prioritize digital accessibility and operational efficiency.

  • Council of Ministers reaffirms ECTEL’s role in safeguarding consumers

    Council of Ministers reaffirms ECTEL’s role in safeguarding consumers

    The Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) has positioned itself as a critical regulatory shield for consumer protection amidst rapid technological transformation. This strategic direction was unveiled during ECTEL’s 49th Council of Ministers Meeting, convened on February 27, 2026, at the Royalton Saint Lucia with hybrid participation.

    Honourable Konris Maynard, Chairman of ECTEL’s Council of Ministers and St. Kitts and Nevis’ Minister for Information, Communications and Technology, emphasized the organization’s vital role in an era defined by artificial intelligence breakthroughs and shifting digital markets. “ECTEL is critically placed to ensure we can protect our consumers in our Member States,” Maynard stated in his opening address.

    The meeting marked the inaugural participation of Honourable Phillip Jackson, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ newly appointed Minister for Innovation and Digital Transformation. Chairman Maynard formally welcomed Minister Jackson, expressing the council’s anticipation to “lean on the experiences and insights you will bring as a new member.”

    Substantive progress was achieved during the proceedings, as reported by ECTEL’s Managing Director David A. Cox. The council granted formal approval to the organization’s Strategic Plan, unlocking subsequent phases of budgetary preparation and implementation. “We managed to achieve quite a lot that was positive for ECTEL,” Cox remarked, characterizing the meeting as productive.

    A significant presentation featured results from ECTEL’s Digital Inclusion Survey (DIS), conducted to analyze digital technology access and usage patterns across member states. The research identified both advancement opportunities and persistent barriers to full participation in the digital economy, providing data-driven insights for future policy formulation.

    As the supreme decision-making body within the ECTEL framework, the council champions the implementation of the organization’s founding Treaty. Its mandate includes promoting effective competition, accessible pricing structures, and enhanced service quality for citizens throughout the Eastern Caribbean region.

  • National Development Foundation expands initiatives for Earth Hour 2026

    National Development Foundation expands initiatives for Earth Hour 2026

    The National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) has announced ambitious plans to transform Earth Hour 2026 into a comprehensive platform for environmental action and sustainable development. Executive Director Cletus Joseph revealed during a press conference that this year’s observance will significantly expand beyond its traditional symbolic nature to incorporate concrete projects and youth engagement initiatives.

    Since assuming leadership of Dominica’s Earth Hour activities in 2021, NDFD has systematically reimagined the global movement as a catalyst for tangible environmental progress. The foundation has shifted focus from merely switching off lights for sixty minutes to implementing structured programs including community clean-ups, youth awareness campaigns, and educational outreach in collaboration with civil society organizations.

    A cornerstone of the 2026 initiative involves active participation from secondary school students, encouraging them to employ technology and creative thinking to develop sustainable community solutions. “We’re encouraging these young persons to be creative with their minds and their words and their hands,” Joseph emphasized, highlighting the long-term goal of nurturing environmental stewardship among youth.

    The foundation’s Green Innovation Summit, an annual event, will continue to promote sustainable entrepreneurship while the Green Loan Facility provides financial support for businesses adopting energy efficiency, renewable systems, and climate-resilient technologies. This financial mechanism enables small business owners to implement eco-friendly strategies that enhance both environmental sustainability and profitability.

    Donald Bercasio, another NDFD representative, provided historical context, noting that the program has achieved significant milestones since its inception. The 2023 participation of the presidential state house in Earth Hour symbolized national commitment, while World Wildlife Fund (WWF) recognition in 2025 validated Dominica’s innovative approach to the movement.

    Demian Dumas, Business Support Specialist at NDFD, characterized Earth Hour as “a globally recognized moment of reflection and commitment” that represents institutional collaboration and community solidarity in Dominica. The 2026 campaign, operating under the theme ’60 minutes for the planet,’ emphasizes that meaningful environmental change can begin with intentional individual actions.

    In partnership with the Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation, NDFD will implement a three-tiered school engagement initiative designed to mobilize students across all educational levels, further cementing the foundation’s holistic approach to environmental advocacy and sustainable development.

  • Fire officers to receive bonus for handling of major Roseau blaze

    Fire officers to receive bonus for handling of major Roseau blaze

    The Government of Dominica has announced substantial financial recognition for firefighters who demonstrated exceptional bravery during a significant commercial fire in central Roseau. Minister for National Security Rayburn Blackmoore formally declared a cash incentive of no less than $500 for every fire officer involved in combating the intense blaze that erupted on King George IV Street in the early hours of Monday morning.

    The announcement came during an official ceremony this week where two new fire trucks were handed over to the national fire department. Minister Blackmoore highlighted the extraordinary professionalism and courage displayed by personnel under dangerous conditions, specifically noting the exemplary performance of female firefighters who operated with equal capability and efficiency as their male counterparts.

    “The men and women had to brave the elements; they were professional, they were quick on their feet, and what I saw gives me greater appreciation and admiration for their service to country,” Blackmoore stated during the ceremony. He emphasized that while firefighters perform their duties without expectation of additional reward, exceptional dedication deserves special recognition beyond regular salaries.

    The fire incident resulted in substantial damage to multiple business establishments, including the temporary closure of one of Dominica’s leading pharmacies. Minister Blackmoore confirmed that Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has fully endorsed the cash incentives, underscoring the administration’s commitment to rewarding public servants who demonstrate outstanding commitment to national service.

  • Rotary eert Wilgo ‘Hoppie Hopman’ Koster voor 40 jaar inzet voor jeugd

    Rotary eert Wilgo ‘Hoppie Hopman’ Koster voor 40 jaar inzet voor jeugd

    Surinamese community development pioneer Wilgo ‘Hoppie Hopman’ Koster has been distinguished with the prestigious Rotary Vocational Excellence Award for his four-decade commitment to youth empowerment and social betterment. The formal recognition ceremony occurred Thursday during a special assembly of Rotary Suriname at the Assuria High Rise venue.

    Koster received the honor specifically within the Youth and Welfare category, acknowledging his extensive leadership within scouting organizations, his dedicated involvement with the Stibula community center in Latour, and his consistent integration of Catholic values into his social outreach initiatives. The international Rotary award celebrates professionals demonstrating exceptional vocational excellence coupled with substantial community service contributions.

    In his acceptance address, Koster expressed profound gratitude while simultaneously advocating for increased recognition of youth work’s societal importance. He noted that welfare and youth development sectors frequently receive less public attention compared to sports and other activities. “Youth often mirror the examples set by adults—it’s that straightforward,” Koster emphasized, issuing a call for adults to model positive behavior for younger generations.

    The award includes a $2,000 monetary prize designated for charitable allocation. Koster revealed plans to dedicate portion of these funds toward renovating the urgently deteriorating scout clubhouse in Latour. Despite this accolade, Koster affirmed his unwavering commitment to community service, stating: “I will not rest on my laurels. I will continue to need your support.”

  • Stabbing in St Joseph leaves one man dead

    Stabbing in St Joseph leaves one man dead

    A violent incident in the St. Joseph area has resulted in a tragic loss of life, Dominica News Online confirms. The community is reeling from an alleged homicide that occurred on Thursday evening, leaving one male victim deceased from stab wounds.

    Initial reports indicate the victim sustained severe injuries during the altercation and subsequently succumbed to them. Law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal stabbing, though specific details regarding motive or potential suspects remain undisclosed at this preliminary stage.

    The incident has sparked concerns among local residents regarding community safety and violent crime prevention. Emergency responders arrived at the scene following reports of the assault, but medical interventions proved unsuccessful in saving the victim’s life.

    Dominica News Online has committed to monitoring developments in this case closely and will provide subsequent updates as additional information becomes available through official channels. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending formal notification of next of kin and completion of preliminary investigative procedures.

  • Grenada at a crossroads: Governance, reform, and the path forward

    Grenada at a crossroads: Governance, reform, and the path forward

    Four years after Grenada’s landmark 2022 general election that brought Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) to power, the nation stands at a critical juncture in its development trajectory. The political transition from Keith Mitchell’s New National Party (NNP) represented a profound public mandate for renewal and fresh governance approaches in the Caribbean nation.

    The previous administration’s legacy includes significant fiscal reforms implemented following Grenada’s early 2010s debt crisis. Through comprehensive debt restructuring, fiscal responsibility legislation, and economic stabilization measures, the country restored investor confidence and established a sustainable economic framework that continues to guide current policy.

    While maintaining these fiscal safeguards, the Mitchell administration has benefited from robust tourism recovery and sustained revenues from the citizenship-by-investment program. However, this economic model reveals Grenada’s persistent vulnerability to global shocks and natural disasters due to its heavy reliance on tourism and external conditions.

    Among the current government’s notable achievements has been the resolution of long-standing pension entitlements for public servants, addressing a contentious issue that had lingered through multiple administrations. This move represents significant progress in institutional confidence-building.

    The administration’s frequently articulated “Transformation Agenda” faces its true test in implementation. Beyond visionary rhetoric, meaningful progress requires concrete timelines, institutional capacity, and measurable outcomes in job creation, economic diversification, infrastructure development, and public service delivery.

    Youth opportunity emerges as the most pressing contemporary challenge. Despite periodic economic growth, many young Grenadians struggle to find stable employment or viable economic pathways. Tourism expansion alone cannot accommodate the aspirations of an increasingly educated and globally connected generation.

    The diaspora represents another crucial development dimension. Grenadians abroad contribute significantly through remittances, investments, and professional expertise—a substantial economic and social capital reservoir that could be further leveraged through deliberate institutional connections.

    Economic diversification remains Grenada’s fundamental long-term imperative. While tourism will continue as an economic pillar, sustainable development necessitates expansion into digital services, agricultural innovation, education services, and creative industries. This transition requires sustained investment in human capital, infrastructure, and institutional capacity.

    Ultimately, Grenada’s progress transcends partisan politics. The nation’s future resilience and shared prosperity depend on collective efforts across generations—a continuing national project shaped by citizens, institutions, and leaders committed to long-term development rather than short-term political gains.

  • Live ammunition training: Saturday, 7 March

    Live ammunition training: Saturday, 7 March

    The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) has issued a formal public advisory regarding scheduled live-fire military exercises. The tactical training operation will be conducted at the Pearls’ Training Range in the Saint Andrew parish on Saturday, March 7th, 2026.

    The high-intensity drills will commence at 8:30 AM local time and conclude by 2:00 PM, encompassing a five-and-a-half-hour operational window. Security authorities have implemented stringent safety protocols, designating the entire perimeter as an active danger zone during this period.

    Law enforcement officials have specifically cautioned residents from Pearls and adjacent communities to maintain a safe distance from the designated area. The advisory extends special warnings to pet owners, maritime operators, and fishing vessel captains, urging extreme vigilance to prevent accidental entry into the restricted waterside vicinity.

    Commissioner of Police offices emphasized the non-negotiable nature of these safety measures, highlighting the irreversible risks associated with live ammunition exercises. While the training is essential for maintaining national security readiness, public cooperation remains fundamental to ensuring incident-free operations.

    The notice clarifies that all media content and contributor opinions remain outside the police force’s editorial responsibility, with dedicated channels available for abuse reporting.