The President of the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU), Nadia Caliz, has vehemently criticized Education Minister Oscar Requena for his handling of the ongoing teacher pay controversy. In a late-night Facebook livestream, Caliz labeled Requena’s explanation as “nonsense” and “disrespect to the highest level,” expressing deep frustration over what she described as misinformation and a lack of transparency. Caliz refuted Requena’s claim that salary deductions were due to advance payments made in December, asserting that no such agreement existed with the union. She clarified that the payments were long-overdue increments and allowances, not advances. Additionally, Caliz highlighted that some teachers have yet to receive salaries dating back to June, July, September, and October. Beyond the financial delays, Caliz condemned the lack of respect and transparency toward educators, many of whom are facing severe financial hardships. She emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that some teachers are being forced to vacate their homes due to unpaid rent. The union is demanding accountability and warning that this issue will not be ignored. Caliz vowed, “We’re going to get to the bottom of this. There’s a storm on the horizon, and this time, it’s a big one.”
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Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney has died
Dick Cheney, the 46th Vice President of the United States and a towering figure in American politics, passed away on Monday at the age of 84. His death, attributed to complications from pneumonia exacerbated by pre-existing heart and vascular conditions, marks the end of a storied yet polarizing career. Cheney, who served under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, was widely regarded as one of the most powerful vice presidents in U.S. history, though his tenure was marred by controversy and declining public approval. Born in Nebraska and raised in Wyoming, Cheney earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wyoming and pursued graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin. His political journey began in 1969 as a Capitol Hill intern, eventually leading to roles as White House Chief of Staff (1975–1977), U.S. Congressman (1979–1989), and Secretary of Defense (1989–1993) under President George H. W. Bush. After leaving public office during the Clinton administration, Cheney became CEO of Halliburton, a prominent energy corporation. Cheney’s legacy is deeply intertwined with his advocacy for the 2003 Iraq invasion, based on unproven claims of weapons of mass destruction and Al-Qaeda ties, and his support for enhanced interrogation techniques, including torture. Despite his influence, Cheney’s approval ratings plummeted to 13% by the end of his vice presidency. In later years, he became a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, whom he labeled a ‘coward’ and a threat to the republic. In a surprising move, Cheney endorsed Democrat Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, emphasizing the need to prioritize national unity over partisan politics.
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Antigua and Barbuda Officially Launches CHOGM 2026
The Commonwealth Secretariat and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda marked a significant milestone with the official launch of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026. The ceremony, held at the Lord Nelson’s Ballroom in Sandals Grande Resort, was jointly presided over by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, alongside Karen-Mae Hill, the CHOGM 2026 National Focal Point. Distinguished attendees included Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams, senior government officials, diplomats, and members of the CHOGM 2026 Task Force.
Emphasizing the Commonwealth’s dedication to inclusivity, the event welcomed representatives from diverse communities, including the differently abled, Rastafarian groups, CARICOM youth ambassadors, secondary school students, NGOs, and the private sector. Their participation underscored the Commonwealth’s mission to ensure every voice contributes to a more equitable and prosperous future.
The 2026 CHOGM, scheduled for November 1–4 in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, will revolve around the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.” Prime Minister Browne highlighted the theme’s alignment with Antigua and Barbuda’s national motto, “Each Endeavouring, All Achieving,” emphasizing unity and collective progress. Secretary-General Botchwey echoed this sentiment, stressing the Commonwealth’s modern mission to transform ambition into action through partnerships, innovation, and inclusion.
The ceremony also unveiled the official CHOGM 2026 logo, designed by Chaneil C. Imhoff, which features an abstract frigate bird symbolizing freedom, strength, and forward movement. The vibrant colors reflect unity and collaboration, embodying Antigua and Barbuda’s role as a global connector.
Cricketing legend Sir Vivian Richards was announced as the CHOGM 2026 Envoy, tasked with raising awareness and engagement across the Commonwealth. Richards expressed pride in hosting the event, viewing it as a testament to Antigua and Barbuda’s spirit and hospitality.
The event concluded with cultural performances by the Hellsgate Steel Orchestra, the Antigua Dance Academy, and the UWI Five Islands Campus Singers, showcasing the nation’s rich heritage. Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to the Commonwealth’s principles, marking the launch as a pivotal step toward a sustainable and resilient future.
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Somohardjo: Minister GBB belooft boothouders intrekking grond Leonsberg
In a swift response to widespread public discontent, Minister Stanley Soeropawiro announced the withdrawal of the contentious decision to allocate the Leonsberg docking facility during an emergency meeting convened by Bronto Somohardjo, Chairman of the Permanent Committee on Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB) in the National Assembly. The meeting, attended by the boat owners’ association led by Ann Sadi, an NDP parliamentarian, was prompted by the outcry over the timing of the decision, made just ten days before the elections. Somohardjo hailed the minister’s promise as ‘a first victory for the people,’ stating, ‘What happened here was not policy; it was brutality. The voice of the people has been heard, and the boat owners have regained their source of income.’ He emphasized that the GBB committee would closely monitor the issue until the withdrawal is officially completed, vowing, ‘We will not shelve this matter; we will pursue it. Our duty as a committee is to protect the people.’ Somohardjo also noted the unanimous support of his committee colleagues—Parmessar, Sharman, Jarbadhan, Jones, Bouterse Waldring, and Bink—in ensuring a just resolution, including potential criminal investigations by the Public Prosecutor’s Office. ‘As a committee, we stand united: justice above injustice,’ he declared. He further praised President Simons and Minister Soeropawiro for their prompt action ‘to right what had gone wrong’ and announced that the GBB committee would soon propose additional legislation to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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India sends aid to Cuba & Jamaica for recovery from Hurricane Melissa
India has dispatched a significant humanitarian aid shipment to Cuba, Bolivia, and Ecuador, each receiving 20 tons of essential supplies. The consignment, which departed from New Delhi on Tuesday, includes rehabilitation materials, food, medicine, medical equipment, generators, hygiene kits, and other critical items, as confirmed by the Indian Foreign Ministry. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to supporting its Global South partners in times of natural disasters, aiding their recovery and reconstruction efforts. Indian Foreign Minister highlighted the nation’s solidarity with these countries, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing global challenges. India has a longstanding history of providing humanitarian assistance to Cuba, particularly in the aftermath of hurricanes and earthquakes. The aid for Cuba is timed to coincide with the upcoming visit of Pabitra Margherita, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, who will also tour Bolivia and Ecuador. During his visit to Cuba, Margherita is expected to discuss enhancing bilateral relations, with a focus on health and medicine, digital public infrastructure, and capacity building.
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Prensa Latina and AKP highlight positive collaboration
The enduring partnership between the Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP) and Prensa Latina, Cuba’s leading news agency, has been a cornerstone in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between Cambodia and Cuba. Initially established in 2012 and revitalized in October 2022, this collaboration is rooted in a shared dedication to truth and the objective dissemination of information about their respective nations. AKP Director General Nimul Sokmom and Cuban Ambassador to Cambodia, Milena Zaldivar, recently highlighted the significance of this alliance during a cordial meeting. Since the renewal of their agreement, AKP has published over 500 news reports about Cuba in English, Khmer, and French, showcasing the resilience, achievements, and unwavering solidarity of the Cuban people. Ambassador Zaldivar emphasized the pivotal role of this media partnership in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. She also commended AKP’s consistent coverage of Cuba’s struggles, particularly its condemnation of the U.S. government’s prolonged economic, commercial, and financial blockade, which has persisted for over six decades.
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TVET Council and BNSI sign landmark MOU
In a significant step toward transforming Barbados’ workforce development framework, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council and the Barbados National Standards Institution (BNSI) have inked a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement, signed at the BNSI headquarters, aims to formally recognize the skills of BNSI member employees while bolstering the island’s quality infrastructure. The collaboration seeks to bridge the gap between competence and quality, offering workers new avenues for formal certification through the TVET Council’s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) programme. PLAR enables individuals to earn qualifications by validating skills acquired through work experience, informal training, or other non-traditional learning methods. Fabian Scott, acting deputy director of BNSI, emphasized that the MOU is fundamentally about people, ensuring that Barbadians’ skills—whether gained on the job or in the classroom—are recognized, certified, and aligned with international standards. Under the agreement, BNSI members and their employees will enjoy discounted access to the PLAR programme, which awards National and Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (NVQs and CVQs) based on both formal education and real-world experience. This initiative aligns with the Government of Barbados’ objective to reduce the number of uncertified workers and enhance national productivity. Hadyn Rhynd, director of BNSI, highlighted the partnership’s role in safeguarding competence and boosting the global competitiveness of Barbadian industries. The MOU also paves the way for deeper collaboration in joint promotions, training, and strategic workforce planning. Henderson Eastmond, Executive Director of the TVET Council, stressed that the partnership extends beyond certification, focusing on building industries, saving foreign exchange, and addressing workforce needs strategically. A key innovation under the MOU is the planned establishment of Sector Skills Councils, industry-led bodies tasked with identifying skills gaps and guiding the development of relevant training and standards. BNSI’s diverse membership base is expected to play a crucial role in this initiative, with sectors like the Creative Industries (film and animation) and Health and Wellness already in focus. Eastmond described the partnership as forward-looking, aimed at creating a future-ready workforce that is competent, confident, and globally recognized. The MOU takes immediate effect and will remain in force for three years, with potential for renewal, marking a major stride in aligning Barbados’ skills development with international best practices and economic resilience.
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Cuba attends 12th Meeting of UNESCO National Commissions
Dulce Buergo, President of the Cuban National Commission for UNESCO (CNCU), emphasized Cuba’s steadfast dedication to multilateralism, peace, and international law during her address at the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Central Asia. Speaking on behalf of the Caribbean nation, Buergo highlighted the severe challenges posed by the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade against Cuba, further intensified by its inclusion on the U.S. State Sponsors of Terrorism (SSOT) list. Despite these adversities, she underscored Cuba’s active engagement in various UNESCO-led initiatives, including cultural and creative industries, heritage preservation, UNESCO-associated schools, Geoparks, Biosphere Reserves, and artificial intelligence (AI), all of which contribute to the nation’s development. Additionally, Buergo used the platform to condemn the ongoing genocide against Palestine and reaffirm Cuba’s unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people, advocating for their right to peace and the establishment of a sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital. The conference, running until November 13, serves as a critical forum for addressing global challenges and fostering international cooperation.
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Cuba: Ibero-Am Congress on Science and Technology Management opens
The Knowledge and Technology Management Company (GECYT), a collaborative entity formed by the InnoMAX Business Group and the Havana Delegation of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment (CITMA), is set to host a significant Congress from November 4 to 7. The event aims to foster the exchange of ideas and experiences among participants in the fields of knowledge management, innovation, and technology. Yadira Carrillo Frias, General Director of GECYT, emphasized to Prensa Latina that the Congress will serve as a platform for diverse stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, government officials, innovators, scientists, academics, and students, to collaborate and share insights. Additionally, representatives from universities, information centers, science and technology parks, and various economic sectors are expected to attend, making it a comprehensive gathering for advancing technological and innovative endeavors.
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UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization wraps-up cocoa mission to Dominica, St Lucia, St Vincent-Grenadines, and Grendada
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) recently concluded a comprehensive mission across four Caribbean nations—Dominica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada—from August 6 to August 26, 2025. The initiative, led by FAO’s Cocoa Market Analysis Specialist, Mr. Gustavo Ferro, aimed to assess the current state of the region’s cocoa industry and identify pathways for sustainable development and enhanced global market positioning. Funded through FAO’s Regular Programme Funds, the project aligns with the broader goal of strengthening the specialty cocoa sector in the Caribbean. Cocoa is recognized as a key driver for bolstering local economies, supporting rural communities, and accessing premium fine-flavor markets. During the mission, FAO explored strategies to improve productivity and competitiveness, emphasizing sustainable growth for the Eastern Caribbean’s cocoa industry. Initial findings revealed that, despite variations among the four nations, the region’s network of smallholder farmers could become more competitive through improved coordination, group aggregation, and efficient logistics. The revival of the sector, driven by initiatives like bean-to-bar chocolate production, artisanal cocoa products, and traditional cocoa tea, coupled with the region’s thriving tourism industry, highlights significant prospects for origin branding, agro-tourism connections, and niche markets. Mr. Ferro engaged with various stakeholders, including Ministries of Agriculture, producer associations, cooperatives, exporters, chambers of commerce, and private processing firms. He also visited farms and processing sites to evaluate production practices, post-harvest handling, and quality control systems. Discussions with Permanent Secretaries and technical staff provided comprehensive insights into each country’s cocoa sector. The mission is expected to produce detailed situational analyses for each nation, identifying strengths, gaps, and opportunities along the cocoa value chain. These reports will contribute to a regional roadmap aimed at elevating the Caribbean’s positioning in the fine and flavor cocoa markets. A comprehensive report and presentation will be shared at the upcoming Subregional Dialogue and Validation Workshop in Trinidad and Tobago in November 2025. Mr. Ferro expressed optimism about the feedback received, particularly highlighting Dominica’s potential for specialized marketing due to its rich biodiversity and agroforestry systems. He also praised Saint Lucia’s modest production base, Grenada’s distinctive fine-flavor cocoa, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ resilience in preserving its cocoa heritage. Jennifer Pascal, President of the North East Cocoa Producers Cooperative in Dominica, shared her enthusiasm for the renewed energy and strong potential of the industry. Looking ahead, FAO will collaborate with the Cocoa Research Centre at the University of the West Indies to host a Subregional Dialogue on the Specialty Cocoa Sector, bringing together stakeholders to validate findings, exchange best practices, and develop a strategic roadmap for sustainable growth and improved global competitiveness.