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Jamaica is taking significant strides to revolutionize its educational landscape with the launch of a comprehensive national STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program. This initiative, spearheaded by the UWI-UNICEF Walking in Her Footsteps (WIHFS) project, seeks to empower both university and high school students by providing them with mentorship, real-world experiences, and equitable opportunities in STEM fields. Originally conceived in 2022 by Dr. Marvadeen Singh-Wilmot, a senior lecturer in chemistry, the program has now expanded its reach to include multiple universities and high schools across the nation. Supported by UNICEF, the initiative aims to address the underrepresentation of women in STEM leadership roles and the declining enrollment of males in STEM programs. Dr. Singh-Wilmot emphasized the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in STEM, stating, ‘Mentorship is not just about science; it’s about equity, confidence, and opportunity.’ The program also tackles broader challenges, such as declining student performance in mathematics and science, through targeted teacher training and the introduction of Jamaica’s first Special Mathematics Olympiad for students with disabilities. Key components of the expanded program include a national reach to universities like Northern Caribbean University and Caribbean Maritime University, an innovative ‘Pods Model’ for intergenerational mentorship, teacher integration, community engagement, and STEM tours and workshops. These efforts are designed to foster inclusivity, leadership, and entrepreneurship, ultimately building a STEM-ready workforce that aligns with Jamaica’s national development goals.

In a tragic incident that has shaken the community of Commodore in Linstead, St. Catherine, Jamaica, five individuals, including a four-year-old child, were fatally shot in what authorities believe to be a gang-related attack. The assailants, reportedly posing as police officers, stormed a residence along Commodore Road late Sunday night, leaving nine people injured, five of whom succumbed to their wounds. Among the deceased was a young student from Rosemont Primary and Infant School. The remaining four victims are currently hospitalized in serious condition. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Christopher Phillips, the commanding officer for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Area Five, described the scene as “very, very awful,” noting that even a dog was killed in the attack. Phillips emphasized that the incident appears to be linked to gang violence, a situation that has been monitored by law enforcement for over a year without prior incidents. Senior Superintendent Hopeton Nicholson, head of the St. Catherine North Police Division, assured the community that the police are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice swiftly and using all legal means available. He expressed condolences to the affected families and vowed to work tirelessly to remove such criminals from the streets.

In Trelawny, Jamaica, the sudden disappearance of 77-year-old Dennis Mahoney, a dedicated worker at the Hampden Estate distillery, has left his family and community in distress. Mahoney was last seen leaving his Vanzie Land, Falmouth home for work on Monday, September 22. Despite extensive search efforts involving over 50 people, including members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), and local residents, there has been no trace of him. Canine units, drones, and military equipment were deployed during the search, which covered dense areas of Tilston, Wakefield, and nearby communities. Deputy Superintendent of Police Peter Salkey confirmed that the operation, which lasted from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, yielded no results. Mahoney’s wife, Roselyn, remains hopeful, stating, ‘We don’t know what happened, but we still keep the faith.’ The family is urging anyone with information to contact the Falmouth Police Station or the nearest police station. Mahoney is described as having a brown complexion, medium build, and standing approximately 185 centimetres (6 feet 1 inch) tall.

Over 400 women from diverse backgrounds gathered at the Moon Palace All Inclusive Resort in St Ann, Jamaica, from September 26 for the Church of God of Prophecy Jamaica’s (COGOP) Daughters Unlocked (DU) Women’s Empowerment Conference. This transformative three-day event, themed ‘Beyond the Beyond,’ aimed to inspire women and girls aged 13-65 to transcend limitations and embrace their divine purpose. The conference featured a stellar lineup of speakers, including Apostle Isi Igenegba from Nigeria, Dr Terri-Karelle Johnson, Pastor Lecia Williams, and host Minister Nickeisha Smith, COGOP’s national women’s ministry director. Attendees explored topics ranging from faith and identity to economic empowerment and personal development. A highlight of the event was the ‘Women in Business – The Village’ experience, which provided a platform for female leaders to showcase their businesses and products. The conference also introduced ‘Girls Unlocked,’ a mentorship program for young women aged 13-17, offering guidance on communication, financial literacy, and personal growth. The event was enriched by powerful worship sessions led by Psalmists Minister Marsha Jarrett, Ja-Donne Grey, and Ayana Bonner, accompanied by the Rhoda Isabella Ministries (RIM) Band. Supported by sponsors such as Signature Products and Awards, Jamaica Public Service, and Cari-Med Group, the conference has grown significantly since its inception in 2019, impacting countless lives through spiritual growth, healing, and empowerment. The ministry also partnered with the End Period Poverty Campaign, providing resources and support for vulnerable women and girls. Conference planning committee chairperson, Minister Sheriann Ward, emphasized that Daughters Unlocked is more than an event—it is a community fostering faith, miracles, and spiritual awakening.

In a decisive response to a tragic shooting incident in the Linstead community of Commodore, Jamaica, the government has announced a $2 million reward for information leading to the apprehension of those responsible. The attack, which occurred on Sunday evening, resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including a four-year-old child. Prime Minister Andrew Holness, during a community visit on Monday, emphasized the importance of citizen cooperation in bringing the perpetrators to justice. He urged residents to share any relevant information with the authorities, stating that it is both a civic duty and in the community’s best interest. Holness also highlighted the broader context of crime reduction in Jamaica, noting that despite this devastating incident, the country remains 40% below last year’s murder rate. He expressed confidence in the police’s ability to handle the situation, drawing parallels to the Cherry Tree Lane massacre in Clarendon, where eight people were killed. The Prime Minister assured that the police would adopt a proactive and enduring strategy to prevent reprisals and maintain security in the affected area. Reports indicate that the attackers, some disguised as police officers, stormed a family yard around 8:45 pm, opening fire and injuring nine people, five of whom succumbed to their injuries.