Carib Scope

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  • UWI 2026 year-in-review council meetings start this week, (with livecast link)

    UWI 2026 year-in-review council meetings start this week, (with livecast link)

    The University of the West Indies (UWI) commences its 2026 Council Meetings series on March 6 at the Mona Campus, initiating a comprehensive institutional review process that will engage all five campuses through May. This annual governance cycle begins with a keynote address by Professor Densil Williams, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal, who will present the university’s 2024-2025 performance metrics encompassing research breakthroughs, operational achievements, and community engagement statistics.

    The coordinated meetings will sequentially convene governance bodies from Mona, Cave Hill, St. Augustine, Five Islands, and the Global Campus, culminating in the University Council Meeting on May 8. Each session will feature detailed evaluations of institutional accountability reports and facilitate stakeholder dialogues regarding strategic development priorities.

    In a significant commitment to institutional transparency, all proceedings will be publicly broadcast through UWItv platforms, maintaining UWI’s tradition of open governance. As a multi-nation publicly funded institution serving 17 countries, these broadcasts enable Campus Principals and Vice-Chancellor Beckles to disclose operational, financial, and academic advancements directly to constituents.

    The timing of these assessments follows UWI’s recent recognition by Times Higher Education, which ranked the institution among the global top 3.6% of universities worldwide—a notable achievement among approximately 35,000 institutions internationally. The live-streamed sessions will incorporate dedicated media question-and-answer segments, with interactive participation channels available throughout broadcasts.

    All meetings are accessible via www.uwitv.global and UWItv’s dedicated Flow Channels, ensuring widespread public and media access to the university’s governance processes.

  • Two qualify for CARIFTA despite soggy start

    Two qualify for CARIFTA despite soggy start

    Despite a rain-disrupted start that threatened to derail the opening day of the Shakira Shorey Field Event Championship, two exceptional athletes soared past the CARIFTA qualifying standards under clearing skies at Harrison College. Heavy overnight precipitation had initially jeopardized the commencement of the Dasani Barbados Secondary Schools’ Athletic Championship finals, prompting delays and presenting competitors with significantly compromised conditions. The decisive action by Technical Director Dorian Best to proceed with the event after an 11 a.m. weather improvement was vindicated as athletic performances escalated throughout the day.

    In a standout performance, Aniya Nurse of The St Michael School dominated the Under 20 Girls’ Long Jump, achieving a winning leap of 5.80m that substantially exceeded the CARIFTA benchmark of 5.65m. Queen’s College athlete Kyesha Husbands also surpassed the standard with a formidable second-place jump of 5.71m, while Nyema Taylor of Combermere secured third with 5.50m.

    The Under 20 Boys’ Long Jump witnessed Jazzair Best, also from The St Michael School, clinch victory with a 7.13m effort. He was closely followed by Harrison College’s Jules O’Garro (7.04m) and Jahkye Brewster of the Lodge School (6.94m).

    Discus events further highlighted the day’s competitive spirit. Tazaria Joseph of The Lodge School claimed the Under 20 Girls’ title with a best throw of 34.87m, edging out Combermere’s Chloe Blackman (34.55m). The St. Michael School continued its strong showing in the Under 20 Boys’ Discus, with Tayshaun Yarde winning gold via a 44.97m throw, ahead of Jayden Walcott of Combermere (43.77m).

    Other notable results included Ajalah Cumberbatch of Frederick Smith Secondary securing the Under 17 Boys’ Javelin with a 50.99m throw despite challenging wind conditions. In the Junior Girls’ Shot Put, Aliyah Greaves of Queen’s College triumphed with a 10.58m effort, while the Junior Boys’ contest saw a tight battle with Tariq Greaves of Combermere taking gold with 11.89m.

    The championship resumes with eight additional finals scheduled for day two, as teams strategize for early advantage before the commencement of track events.

  • 3 things you should know about Cancer and the Heart

    3 things you should know about Cancer and the Heart

    The remarkable advancement in cancer therapeutics, yielding higher cure rates and sustained remission periods, has brought a critical secondary concern to the forefront: mitigating the organ damage inflicted by the treatments themselves. Under the guidance of specialists like Dr. Joerg Herrmann, a cardiologist and founder of the Mayo Clinic’s Cardio-Oncology Clinic in Minnesota, the emerging discipline of cardio-oncology is dedicated to safeguarding cardiovascular health throughout the cancer care continuum. This field has uncovered a complex, bidirectional relationship between cancer and heart disease that extends far beyond the toxic side effects of chemotherapy or radiation.

    A significant revelation is the shared ‘web of risk factors’ that predisposes individuals to both illnesses. Lifestyle choices are a major contributor; for instance, smoking dramatically elevates the risk for lung cancer and simultaneously for coronary artery disease and heart attacks. Dr. Herrmann emphasizes that adopting a holistic healthy lifestyle—maintaining a healthy weight, moderating alcohol, controlling cholesterol, ensuring quality sleep, and consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables—can concurrently reduce risks for these two leading causes of mortality. Physical activity, in particular, is highlighted for its triple benefit: reducing cardiac damage risk during treatment, preventing cancer recurrence, and improving long-term cardiovascular outcomes.

    Furthermore, the relationship is not merely correlational but causal in both directions. Research now indicates that a cancer diagnosis itself can adversely impact the cardiovascular system independently of therapy. Conversely, patients with pre-existing heart failure or other cardiovascular conditions demonstrate a statistically higher risk of developing cancer.

    To proactively address these risks, oncologists are integrating sophisticated protective strategies. These include employing targeted therapies and proton beam therapy to minimize collateral damage, staggering chemotherapy cycles to allow cardiac recovery, administering cardioprotective medications, and utilizing advanced radiation shielding techniques like breath-holding to increase the distance between the treatment target and the heart.

    Innovation is also paving the way for the future. Dr. Herrmann’s research focuses on predictive tools, potentially powered by artificial intelligence (AI) applied to electrocardiograms, to identify high-risk patients before treatment begins. This enables personalized, shared decision-making. The development of therapies to repair chemotherapy-induced heart damage and the exploration of wearable technology for continuous, cost-effective cardiac monitoring in cancer survivors represent the next frontier in ensuring long-term health after a cancer diagnosis.

  • ST Kitts & Nevis PM signs political consultation agreement with Ghana

    ST Kitts & Nevis PM signs political consultation agreement with Ghana

    In a significant move to strengthen intercontinental ties, the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of Ghana have established a formalized diplomatic framework through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding. The agreement, centered on the creation of a Political Consultation Mechanism, was formalized on March 4, 2026, during an official State Visit by Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew to Ghana.

    The signing ceremony, which took place in Accra, featured Prime Drew and Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, representing their respective governments. This strategic arrangement moves beyond traditional diplomatic exchanges by instituting a structured platform for ongoing high-level dialogue between the two nations.

    The newly established mechanism is designed to facilitate regular consultations and create systematic opportunities for collaboration across multiple sectors. Key areas identified for cooperation include political affairs, bilateral trade enhancement, scientific research, technological innovation, and cultural exchange programs. The framework aims to promote policy alignment while strengthening diplomatic relations through continuous engagement at both ministerial and technical levels.

    Prime Minister Drew emphasized the strategic importance of the agreement, stating: ‘This mechanism ensures that our engagement with Ghana is structured, strategic, and sustained. It creates the platform for meaningful cooperation across multiple sectors that matter to our people.’ The accord represents a modern approach to South-South cooperation, establishing institutionalized channels for knowledge sharing and mutual development between the Caribbean and African regions.

    This diplomatic initiative marks a progressive step in international relations, demonstrating how smaller nations can create substantive partnerships through formalized consultation frameworks that extend beyond symbolic diplomacy to create tangible cooperation opportunities.

  • Applications Open for International Solar Alliance Fellowship Programme 2026–2028

    Applications Open for International Solar Alliance Fellowship Programme 2026–2028

    The International Solar Alliance (ISA) has officially initiated the selection process for its eighth cohort of Solar Fellows, marking the continuation of its Mid-Career Professionals Capacity Building Scheme. This prestigious program, established in 2019, offers government professionals from member nations an exceptional opportunity to advance their expertise in renewable energy technologies.

    Successful candidates will enroll in a comprehensive two-year Master of Technology program specializing in Renewable Energy Technologies and Management at the renowned Indian Institute of Technology Delhi. The academic journey for the selected cohort is scheduled to commence on July 23, 2026, with the application portal remaining accessible until March 30, 2026 (4:00 PM IST).

    The fellowship program specifically targets mid-career policymakers, planners, administrators, and managers demonstrating significant leadership potential and commitment to public service. To date, five batches have successfully completed the program, while two additional cohorts are currently undergoing training at IIT Delhi, testament to the initiative’s growing impact on global solar energy development.

    Prospective applicants must submit their materials through the official PG International Admission Portal (https://ecampus.iitd.ac.in/IPGADM/login) and meet the eligibility criteria established by IIT Delhi. The ISA will sponsor twenty candidates across its member countries, with selection priorities given to member states should nominations exceed available slots. Professor Snehasish Panigrahi, Assistant Professor and M.Tech Coordinator at IIT Delhi’s Department of Energy Science and Engineering, will provide application process assistance to interested candidates.

  • Gang members given keys to their prison cells

    Gang members given keys to their prison cells

    In a significant ruling addressing public violence, six individuals involved in a gang-related confrontation at a Kingstown KFC outlet have received suspended prison sentences. Chief Magistrate Colin John delivered the verdict at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, imposing a six-month prison term suspended for two years upon each defendant.

    The convicted individuals include Kimron Jacobs, Jazrick Young (16, student), Kezron Peters (17, car wash attendant), Verron Holder (17, salesperson), Gabriel Haywood (18, construction worker), and Ivorn Thomas (23). All parties pleaded guilty to charges of affray stemming from the February 13 incident.

    According to prosecution evidence presented by Inspector Renrick Cato, the violence erupted around 9 p.m. following a sports event at Independence Park. The altercation began as a verbal dispute between Thomas and another patron inside the Bay Street restaurant before escalating into a physical confrontation. Participants reportedly utilized restaurant objects as weapons during the melee.

    Police investigation, aided by CCTV footage, revealed connections to local gang networks. During interviews, defendants acknowledged associations between the ‘Eight and 6ixx’ gangs and the ‘Five and 7even’ gangs operating across multiple communities including Georgetown, Campden Park, and Sandy Bay.

    Notably, Haywood—a former Police Youth Club member who dropped out of school in Form 3—claimed gang involvement resulted from needing to protect a bullied cousin. The magistrate emphasized the defendants’ behavior brought embarrassment to both themselves and their families while urging them to pursue educational opportunities.

    Prosecutor Cato highlighted the offense’s severity, noting public location and property damage to warning signs. While personally favoring imprisonment, he professionally recommended suspended sentences, stating defendants should ‘hold the keys to their own cells’ for future behavior.

    The court noted that despite previously admitting gang affiliations, all defendants except Thomas denied membership when their parents attended proceedings.

  • Parham, Seatons, and Glanvilles Residents Invited to Shape Local Conservation Actions

    Parham, Seatons, and Glanvilles Residents Invited to Shape Local Conservation Actions

    A comprehensive national survey initiative titled “Community Voices for Conservation” is now underway across Antigua and Barbuda, spearheaded by the IHO Nature Rangers in collaboration with the EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network. The project specifically targets residents in coastal communities including Parham, Seatons, Willikies, Glanvilles, and surrounding areas adjacent to the North East Marine Management Area (NEMMA).

    The survey represents a critical effort to gauge public awareness, environmental concerns, and community interest in biodiversity preservation. By collecting firsthand insights from populations whose livelihoods and cultural heritage are intrinsically linked to marine ecosystems, organizers aim to develop precisely tailored conservation strategies that address real-world needs and priorities.

    Data gathered through this initiative will directly inform multiple environmental programs including youth engagement campaigns, educational outreach, wetland monitoring systems, and community consultation processes. This evidence-based approach ensures that conservation actions under the “Strengthening Conservation Actions in the North East Marine Management Area” project remain responsive to local conditions and community input.

    Project Manager Britney McDonald emphasized the participatory nature of the endeavor, stating: “Community voices are essential to effective conservation. When residents share their perspectives, they help shape practical solutions that protect biodiversity while supporting livelihoods and resilience.”

    The initiative builds upon previous community engagement efforts, including recent clean-up activities at the Glanvilles football field and planned sign installations. Funded by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and the World Bank, with implementation support from the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute and Integrated Health Outreach, the project represents a significant investment in community-led environmental stewardship that will benefit both current and future generations.

  • UK Imposes Visa Requirement on Saint Lucian Travellers

    UK Imposes Visa Requirement on Saint Lucian Travellers

    In a significant policy shift affecting Caribbean relations, the United Kingdom has mandated visa requirements for all Saint Lucian nationals seeking entry to British territory. The abrupt announcement, formally communicated to Saint Lucia’s government on March 4, 2026, took effect mere hours later at 15:00 GMT on March 5.

    The UK Home Office justified this diplomatic measure as necessary to bolster border security and alleviate mounting pressure on immigration processing systems. Official correspondence cited a documented surge in asylum applications from Saint Lucian visitors following their entry to the UK, creating operational strains within the asylum framework.

    This regulatory change encompasses both standard visitor visas and a specialized transit visa for travelers merely passing through UK airports en route to other international destinations. A limited transitional arrangement permits Saint Lucians holding existing Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) with pre-booked travel plans to maintain visa-free entry until April 16, 2026, provided they arrive before 15:00 BST on that date.

    The Saint Lucian administration expressed profound concern regarding the policy’s impact on citizens regularly traveling to Britain for familial visits, educational pursuits, tourism, and business engagements. While diplomatic negotiations with UK authorities remain ongoing, the development has triggered regional apprehension across the Eastern Caribbean.

    This action echoes Britain’s previous imposition of visa restrictions on Dominica, raising questions about the continuity of visa-free access for other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations. Although countries like Antigua and Barbuda haven’t received similar notifications, the precedent has ignited discussions about the evolving nature of UK-Caribbean travel relations. Saint Lucia’s government has committed to providing updated guidance as additional information emerges from ongoing bilateral discussions.

  • SVG represented at regional CSOs conference in Jamaica

    SVG represented at regional CSOs conference in Jamaica

    Jamaica served as the host for a landmark gathering of civil society organization (CSO) leaders from across the Caribbean region from February 24th to 27th. The inaugural Caribbean CSO Conference assembled 120 delegates representing twelve nations, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Suriname, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    Organized through a partnership between the Canadian-funded Local Engagement and Action Fund (LEAF) and the Caribbean Development Bank’s Basic Needs Trust Fund, the conference adopted a practical, execution-oriented approach. The four-day forum was strategically designed to enhance collaboration, stimulate innovation, and facilitate strategic dialogue to bolster regional resilience and impact.

    Canada’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, Mark Berman, emphasized the critical function of CSOs in tackling persistent development challenges. He identified climate vulnerability, youth unemployment, gender inequality, and protection of vulnerable populations as key areas where civil society plays an indispensable role. Commissioner Berman further urged organizations to adapt to global transformations by strengthening governance structures, financial resilience, digital capabilities, and advocacy efforts.

    George Yearwood, Portfolio Manager for the CDB Basic Needs Trust Fund, reinforced the institutional recognition of CSOs as fundamental pillars of sustainable development throughout the Caribbean. He highlighted how non-governmental and community-based organizations consistently serve as first responders during crises and maintain positions as trusted advocates within marginalized communities, championing causes ranging from social justice and environmental stewardship to gender equality and youth empowerment.

    The conference, themed “The Shift: Igniting Civil Society’s Next Chapter,” centered its discussions around four critical pillars: funding and sustainability models, technology and artificial intelligence integration, operational excellence, and enhanced advocacy and visibility strategies. The event concluded with a World NGO Day celebration featuring a regional showcase that honored the vital contributions of CSOs to Caribbean development progress.

  • Sri Lanka beschermt Iraans schip te midden van VS-Iran conflict

    Sri Lanka beschermt Iraans schip te midden van VS-Iran conflict

    Sri Lanka finds itself in a delicate diplomatic position as it attempts to mediate humanitarian concerns surrounding a second Iranian warship operating near its territorial waters. This development comes just one day after a U.S. submarine torpedoed and sank the Iranian frigate Iris Dena in international waters off the Sri Lankan coast, resulting in more than 80 casualties with dozens still missing.

    Cabinet spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa confirmed Thursday that Colombo is “making every effort to preserve lives” regarding the second vessel, which currently remains within Sri Lanka’s exclusive economic zone. The warship carries over 100 crew members and appears to be heading toward the same area where its companion vessel was destroyed, raising concerns about another potential attack.

    According to Al Jazeera correspondent Minelle Fernandez reporting from Colombo, the second ship likely belongs to a group of three Iranian naval vessels returning from an international maritime conference in India. The vessel has reportedly experienced mechanical difficulties and has formally requested permission to dock in Sri Lankan ports—a request that remains under consideration as communications continue.

    The situation places Sri Lanka in a precarious position as the expanding conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran creates ripple effects across the region and beyond. What began five days ago with American and Israeli airstrikes on Iran—which resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—has escalated into retaliatory attacks by Iranian-backed groups on U.S. and Israeli targets across Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Iraq and Cyprus.

    The geopolitical turmoil has already triggered significant disruptions to global energy markets, with oil and gas prices soaring worldwide. Shipping routes, particularly around the critical Strait of Hormuz, have experienced substantial interruptions. Qatar has temporarily suspended liquefied natural gas production following attacks on energy infrastructure.

    International observers warn that prolonged conflict could have severe consequences for regional stability and the global economy, while nations including China and Russia join growing worldwide calls for peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels.