In an era marked by escalating climate challenges, the Ministry of Education in Grenada is spearheading efforts to harness STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) solutions for climate resilience and disaster management. The initiative, highlighted during the recent National Science Fair, showcased groundbreaking projects in renewable energy, robotics, and sustainable technologies, underscoring the critical role of STEM in addressing global environmental crises. The Grenada Trade Centre served as the hub for these innovations, where young minds presented creative approaches to mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance disaster preparedness. The Ministry emphasized the importance of integrating STEM education into national strategies to foster innovation and equip future generations with the tools to tackle pressing environmental issues. This forward-thinking approach aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and build resilient communities. While NOW Grenada disclaims responsibility for contributors’ opinions, the platform continues to amplify discussions on critical topics, encouraging public engagement and awareness.
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BEL Explains San Pedro Power Outage
San Pedro Town experienced a significant power outage on the evening of Sunday, November 4, 2025, following a transformer malfunction near Ramon’s Village Resort. The incident, which occurred shortly after 6:00 p.m., left the town in complete darkness. Residents reported hearing what they described as an explosion-like sound, raising concerns about the severity of the issue.
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), the national electricity provider, issued an official statement explaining the cause of the outage. The disruption was attributed to a hardware fault on the overhead section of the 34.5 kV sub-transmission line, a critical infrastructure component that supplies power to the island. This line connects San Pedro to the national grid through a combination of submarine, underground, and overhead systems.
Compounding the problem, BEL’s San Pedro Gas Turbine, which typically serves as a backup power source, could not be activated. The turbine relies on the same damaged transmission line, rendering it ineffective during the outage. Additionally, adverse weather conditions further delayed restoration efforts, prolonging the inconvenience for residents.
Despite these challenges, BEL managed to restore power to the area, bringing relief to the affected community. The incident underscores the vulnerabilities in the island’s power infrastructure and highlights the need for robust backup systems to mitigate future disruptions.
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Applications for Caribbean STEM Olympiads 2026 close out on November 30
The Caribbean STEM Olympiads (CSO) 2026 is nearing its application deadline, set for November 30, 2025. Organized by the Caribbean Science Foundation (CSF), this prestigious competition invites students aged 13 to 21 from CARICOM member states and Associate Countries to showcase their talents in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
To assist potential participants, the CSF will host its fourth and final informational webinar on November 16, 2025, at 7:00 pm AST. This session, accessible via Zoom, will provide comprehensive details about the Olympiad, including competition rules, entry procedures, judging criteria, and more. It also offers an interactive platform for students and educators to ask questions and engage in discussions.
The CSO features three age-based categories: Level 1 (13-15 years), Level 2 (16-18 years), and Level 3 (19-21 years). Participants can compete individually or as teams representing schools, clubs, or organizations. The competition spans three core areas: Robotics & Electronics Systems, Computer Programming, and Mathematics. Winners will be awarded platinum, gold, silver, and bronze medals, along with cash prizes.
Preliminary elimination rounds are scheduled for mid to late December 2025, with the finals taking place from January 12 to 18, 2026. Interested students can access the initial registration form and additional details on the official CSO website: https://caribbeanscience.org/cso/.
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Barbados to join the select group of full members of CAF
Barbados is on the verge of making history as the smallest nation to achieve full membership in the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). This milestone was announced by Ryan Straughn, Minister in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, during a parliamentary debate on the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean Bill, 2025. Straughn emphasized that this move would significantly strengthen Barbados’ integration into the regional development finance framework. He compared the decision to joining a credit union, highlighting that it would grant Barbados enhanced access to CAF’s decision-making processes and funding mechanisms. Barbados initially joined CAF 14 years ago under the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) administration, which secured a US$200 million financing facility with a US$15 million subscription. However, the proposed legislative amendments aim to provide Barbados with more flexibility, especially in response to the evolving global financial landscape and the shifting policies of institutions like the World Bank, which has increasingly aligned with the current U.S. administration. Once finalized, this upgraded membership will not only bolster the government’s access to CAF financing but also create opportunities for private sector entities and individual Barbadians to benefit from the bank’s development programs and investment tools.
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3 in every 4 homes in Guyana now have access to fibre… One Communications powers Nation’s digital leap
In a landmark achievement for Guyana’s digital infrastructure, One Communications has announced that its fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) network now reaches over 75% of households across the nation. This significant milestone underscores the company’s role as the leading provider of advanced fibre connectivity in the country, propelling Guyana’s digital transformation forward. With more than 170,000 homes and businesses now connected, the expansion aligns with the government’s agenda to enhance nationwide connectivity, foster ICT-driven economic growth, and improve access to education. The company’s Chief Operations Officer, Eshwar Thakurdin, emphasized the focus on bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas, particularly in regions like West Side, East Coast Demerara, Berbice, and Linden. The project, which required an additional investment of USD 10 million over the past two years, has positioned Guyana as one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing broadband markets. Thakurdin highlighted the company’s mission to keep Guyana connected to future advancements, whether for global investors, remote learners, or smart homes. The latest phase of expansion, completed between August and October 2025, has brought high-speed internet to numerous communities, including Look Out, Grove, and Rosignol. Hilton Wong, General Manager of One Communications’ business arm Brava, also noted the transformative impact on small businesses, enabling them to move online and access digital payment solutions. Since its initial rollout in 2017, One Communications has continued to expand its fibre network, with further rollouts planned for 2026. The company, part of the ATN International Group, remains committed to fostering inclusion, empowerment, and national progress through cutting-edge telecommunications solutions.
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Antigua’s Gaston Browne reiterates call for Caribbean to be a zone of peace
Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a fervent call for the Caribbean to remain a ‘zone of peace,’ expressing deep concerns over the United States’ escalating military presence in the region. Speaking at the launch of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference (CHOGM), set for November 1-4, 2024, Browne warned that any conflict arising from this build-up would disproportionately affect small island states, particularly those in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). He highlighted the region’s vulnerability, noting that even basic necessities like fruits are imported from North America. Browne drew parallels to the economic fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war, which caused prices in the Caribbean to surge by up to 10%, and cautioned that military action in the hemisphere would have far more severe consequences. He urged Caribbean nations to unite against any form of military intervention, emphasizing that the region should not be drawn into geopolitical disputes. Browne also condemned recent US airstrikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels in international waters, which have been criticized by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, for lacking evidence. The Prime Minister called for global peace, justice, and unity, reminding the world that humanity shares a common ancestry and that undermining any nation undermines all of humanity.
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Regional Security System concludes training to bolster region’s criminal investigative skills
The Regional Security System Training Institute (RSS TI) has successfully concluded its Criminal Investigation Course, a comprehensive program designed to enhance the region’s capacity to tackle complex and serious criminal activities. The intensive training brought together law enforcement officials from various Member States, focusing on modern investigative techniques and effective case management. Key topics included evidence collection, crime scene protocols, interview strategies, analytical reasoning, and leadership development. The course also emphasized inter-agency collaboration and strategic decision-making, essential for achieving consistent and high-quality investigative outcomes across the region. The program was led by Assistant Superintendent Cecil Watson and facilitated by retired Canadian detectives Alan Cooke and Zaia Lazar, whose international expertise significantly enriched the training. At the closing ceremony, Deputy Executive Director of RSS, Mr. Atlee Rodney, commended the participants for their dedication and encouraged them to apply their new skills to improve investigative standards within their organizations. EU Attaché Mr. Tedesco reaffirmed the European Union’s support for regional security, noting that the initiative was funded by the 11th European Development Fund. Assistant Commissioner Jefferson Clarke of the Barbados Police Service delivered the keynote address, urging participants to uphold the highest levels of professionalism in their work.
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Single-Lane Traffic Continues on Sir Sydney Walling Highway, Valley Road North, and Anchorage Road
The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) has announced the continuation of single-lane traffic on several major roads in Antigua and Barbuda to facilitate critical infrastructure repairs. The affected routes include Sir Sydney Walling Highway (SSWH), Valley Road North (VRN), and Anchorage Road (AR).
On Sir Sydney Walling Highway, extensive work such as asphalt repairs, junction enhancements, concrete installations, and guardrail setups will proceed westward from Willikies, commencing daily at 8:00 a.m. Similarly, Valley Road North will undergo asphalt repairs in Bolans, starting at the same time each day. Anchorage Road will see sidewalk rehabilitation and drainage improvements near Brydens, also beginning at 8:00 a.m.
To ensure safety, flag persons will be stationed at the sites, and motorists are urged to adhere to their instructions, especially with heavy-duty equipment operating nearby. Despite the disruptions, all businesses in the affected areas remain open.
The roadworks are part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project, a government initiative aimed at enhancing the nation’s transportation network. C.O. Williams Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project, has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and encourages stakeholders to adjust their travel plans to accommodate potential delays. For further inquiries, the public can contact the C.O. Williams Project office at 562-9573.
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STRONGER TOGETHER
The Montego Bay United (MBU) football club is navigating a challenging period following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. With crucial matches postponed and their home pitch at Catherine Hall Stadium rendered unusable due to mud and damage, the team is prioritizing the mental and physical well-being of its members. Head Coach Xavier Gilbert emphasized that reconnecting with players who returned to their families and are now cut off due to communication issues is the immediate focus. ‘We’re still trying to get in touch with players who would have gone home to be with their families and have now been cut off because of communication challenges,’ Gilbert told the Jamaica Observer. The team hopes to resume training soon but is currently focused on cleaning up and supporting families affected by the storm. Gilbert expressed optimism that this adversity will strengthen the team, making them ‘ready and unbeatable’ when the league resumes. Meanwhile, Professional Football Jamaica CEO Owen Hill confirmed that 14 games have been postponed, with more delays likely as the league’s restart is not the top priority. Support for affected clubs remains the focus. Alwayne Wright, a field technician for MBU, shared the harrowing experience of being housed at a property near Dead End Beach during the storm. ‘When the entire top floor of the building came off and the wind started howling, it was scary,’ he recounted. Wright and several others are still stranded, lacking funds to return home and in urgent need of basic supplies like food and water. The Montego Bay Sports Complex, now covered in mud, stands as a stark reminder of the storm’s impact. Despite the challenges, the MBU team remains determined to overcome this crisis together.
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‘Recovery will be quicker than expected’
Supreme Ventures Ltd (SVL), a leading gaming and financial services group based in Jamaica, announced on Tuesday that it has successfully restored 60% of its lottery terminals following the disruption caused by Hurricane Melissa last week. The hurricane forced an unprecedented suspension of its flagship Cash Pot draws, resulting in a significant decline in sales. Executive Chairman Gary Peart revealed in an interview with the Jamaica Observer that operations were halted for two days due to the storm’s impact, with sales still down nearly 50% compared to pre-hurricane levels. Despite the challenges, Peart expressed optimism about the company’s recovery, noting that terminals in severely affected areas like St Elizabeth are being reactivated at an impressive pace. The rapid restoration is crucial for SVL, which generates approximately $150 million daily in gaming revenue. The hurricane also tested SVL’s financial resilience, but the company’s recent $5-billion bond issuance has bolstered its ability to weather the crisis. Peart emphasized SVL’s ongoing strategic pivot from gaming to technology, highlighting the success of its fintech ventures, including Evolve microfinance, ChargeUp phone credit, and remittance services. For the nine months ending September 30, SVL reported a net profit of $1.84 billion, surpassing its full-year 2024 target. Peart attributed this success to cost containment, revenue growth, and strategic diversification. Looking ahead, SVL is eyeing international expansion, particularly in Ghana, where it already operates, and is actively pursuing lottery licenses worldwide. Peart remains confident about the company’s future, anticipating significant revenue growth by 2026 as its digital fintech products gain regulatory approval and scale. SVL’s commitment to shareholders is evident in its latest interim dividend payout of 18.94 cents per share, totaling $499.55 million, representing 92% of its third-quarter net profit.