Jefferson Gabriel, a 23-year-old nursing student in Saint Lucia, is navigating the challenges of being a man in a predominantly female profession. During his clinical maternity rotation, a mandatory part of his nursing training, Gabriel found himself often sidelined due to patients’ discomfort with male caregivers. Despite his eagerness to learn, he spent entire days observing only one patient, as many women declined his participation in their care for personal or religious reasons. This experience highlights the persistent gender biases in nursing, particularly in maternity wards. Nursing students in Saint Lucia undergo clinical rotations across various wards, but Gabriel’s experience in the maternity ward was starkly different from his peers. While his female counterparts engaged fully in patient care, Gabriel’s role was limited to tasks like bathing newborns. Sister Solomon, a veteran nurse with over 30 years of experience, noted that while the Registration of Nurses and Midwives Act refers to female nurses, there are no legal barriers preventing men from entering the field. She emphasized that skill and compassion, not gender, define a good nurse. Gabriel, inspired by his father’s medical crisis, chose nursing to help others and now aspires to enter nursing education to challenge gender biases and inspire future generations. He acknowledges the discomfort some women feel but stresses that male nurses approach their work professionally. Despite the challenges, Gabriel remains passionate about nursing and hopes to shift perceptions about who can provide care. His story reflects a broader trend of increasing male participation in nursing, driven by changing societal attitudes and the influence of social media in challenging stereotypes.
作者： admin
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OPINION: Nuts and bolts of Caricom ‘free movement’ for Saint Lucia in the future
In a significant move towards regional integration, four CARICOM nations—Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines—recently implemented full freedom of movement for their citizens. This decision, made during Saint Lucia’s political campaigning period, fulfills a commitment made at CARICOM’s 50th anniversary. However, Saint Lucia’s silence on the matter raises critical questions about its position in this evolving regional landscape. Historically, Saint Lucia has been a champion of regionalism, from the efforts of Nobel laureate William Arthur Lewis to the aspirations of the failed federation. Yet, the current lack of action calls for practical, forward-thinking discussions to prepare for potential future steps towards freedom of movement. This phase presents an opportunity for public education and engagement on the implications of regional obligations. The four pioneering countries have rejected the outdated requirement under Article 45 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC), which limited CARICOM nationals to a six-month stay as tourists. Instead, they invoked the Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation, allowing nationals to enter, reside, work, and remain indefinitely without permits, while also granting access to healthcare and education. For Saint Lucia, joining this movement requires careful planning. Policymakers must address key questions: What benefits will CARICOM nationals receive? How will healthcare and education access be defined? What systems will integrate migrants? Will social security benefits be transferable? These issues demand national dialogue to ensure transparency and fairness. The legacy of regional integration, championed by figures like Elma Gene Isaac, must inspire deliberate and thoughtful action. As Saint Lucia contemplates its next steps, clarity and inclusivity must guide the process, ensuring that regional integration moves from rhetoric to reality.
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Divali – Van duisternis naar licht
Diwali, often referred to as the ‘Festival of Lights,’ is one of India’s most cherished celebrations, observed globally with immense enthusiasm. This year, the festival falls on Monday, October 20, aligning with the lunar calendar. Often compared to Christmas and New Year combined, Diwali carries a profound message of brotherly love, peace, mutual respect, and unity. Both festivals emphasize renewal, the strengthening of family bonds, and the exchange of gifts, blessings, and good wishes. The vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by new clothes, sweets, and colorful decorations.
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Farmers, exporters warn of trouble beneath Saint Lucia’s sea moss boom
Saint Lucia’s burgeoning sea moss industry, once celebrated for its premium quality and unique harvesting methods, is now facing a crisis of devaluation due to weak oversight and increasing competition. Local farmers and exporters are urging authorities to expedite efforts to regulate and standardize the sector, warning that the island’s once-lucrative product is losing its market edge.
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WEATHER (12:00 PM, Oct 19): A tropical wave is affecting the area
A powerful tropical wave is currently sweeping across the Lesser Antilles, with the southern islands bearing the brunt of its impact. The weather system is forecast to bring persistent moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds throughout the region into the evening. Residents in areas susceptible to flooding, landslides, and rockfalls are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Additionally, maritime conditions are expected to deteriorate over the next 12 to 24 hours, with wave heights reaching up to 7 feet along the west coast and nearly 10 feet on the east coast. In response, a Small Craft Warning has been issued, urging small vessel operators and sea-bathers to exercise extreme caution and stay alert to changing conditions.
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United Workers Party extends its condolences on the passing of Julius Timothy
The United Workers Party (UWP) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Julius Timothy, a distinguished businessman and former politician, who passed away earlier this morning. In an official statement released on their Facebook page, the UWP National Executive Committee conveyed heartfelt condolences to Timothy’s family and friends. The statement highlighted Timothy’s unwavering dedication to the nation and his tireless commitment to the people of Dominica. ‘We extend our deepest sympathies to his loved ones during this difficult time. Julius Timothy’s contributions to our country will not be forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace,’ the party remarked. Timothy’s legacy as a public servant and entrepreneur has left an indelible mark on Dominica’s socio-political landscape.
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Julien Alfred’s legacy shines on in new jewellery line
A new jewellery collection honoring Olympic gold medallist Julien Alfred has been unveiled, with proceeds set to support her charitable foundation. The Julien Alfred Legacy Collection, created by Eleanor Prospere, founder of Fearless Jewellery, was officially launched on October 11 during a fundraising event at BodyHoliday’s Firefly Villa. The collection, inspired by Alfred’s historic 100m victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics, features unisex macramé bracelets, earrings, and gold-plated necklaces and bracelets. Each piece incorporates elements of Saint Lucian identity, including the national flag, the map outline, and the marguerite flower. Prospere, a French-Saint Lucian designer, emphasized the collection’s dual purpose: celebrating Alfred’s achievements and promoting national pride. The project began after Prospere’s father tracked down Alfred and her manager, Henry Rolle, to secure their approval. Following a three-year collaboration agreement, Prospere meticulously designed and financed the collection, which includes 400 pieces. The designer also plans to expand the collection with Cuban link necklaces for men and matching pieces for women. Prospere, who shares a Saint Lucian heritage with Alfred, expressed her lifelong passion for jewellery design, which she has pursued for over 14 years.
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2–4 Inches of Rain Possible from Tropical Disturbance AL98
A tropical disturbance identified as AL98 is currently traversing the Eastern Caribbean, posing a significant threat of heavy rainfall across the region. Weather experts have issued warnings, particularly for the southern islands, where precipitation is expected to range between 2 and 4 inches, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 8 inches. The Leeward Islands are forecasted to experience lighter rainfall, with amounts between 0.5 to 1 inch, though some locations may see totals exceeding 3 inches. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepare for possible flooding and severe downpours. This weather event underscores the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with such tropical disturbances. Meanwhile, in a separate note, a local news platform in Antigua is promoting its digital marketing services, offering customizable packages for businesses seeking to enhance their online presence.
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Ceasefire in Peril? Israel Strikes Gaza, Halts Aid After Accusing Hamas of Truce Violations
The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Gaza is under threat following renewed hostilities, as Israel launched air strikes and suspended humanitarian aid, accusing Hamas of breaching the U.S.-mediated truce. The ceasefire, which had brought a temporary halt to over two years of conflict, now hangs in the balance. Israeli military officials reported that Hamas fighters in Rafah attacked Israeli forces with rocket-propelled grenades and sniper fire, prompting retaliatory strikes in southern Gaza. Additional violations, including fire directed at Israeli troops beyond the designated withdrawal boundary, were also cited. At least eight people were killed in the Israeli strikes across Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an immediate halt to aid deliveries, stating they would remain suspended until further notice. Hamas denied the accusations, with its military wing, the Al Qassam Brigades, claiming no knowledge of the attacks and reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire. Netanyahu convened high-level security consultations with Defense Minister Israel Katz and military chiefs, vowing to respond forcefully to Hamas. Katz warned that Hamas would face severe consequences for any truce violations. The escalation coincides with calls from far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition to resume full-scale war. Meanwhile, Hamas announced it had recovered the body of an Israeli hostage and would return it if conditions permit.
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International Atomic Energy Agency Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme
The Government of Grenada, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development, has officially launched the application process for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme (MSCFP). This initiative is designed to empower women globally by providing them with opportunities to pursue advanced education in nuclear-related fields, thereby addressing the gender disparity in science and technology.
The MSCFP offers comprehensive support, including tuition coverage for master’s degree programmes in nuclear-related disciplines at accredited universities. Additionally, recipients will have access to internship opportunities facilitated by the IAEA, enhancing their professional development and practical experience in the field.
Eligibility for the programme is restricted to female citizens of Grenada who are either currently enrolled or planning to enrol in a master’s degree programme in a nuclear-related field for the academic years 2025/2026 or 2026/2027. Applicants must also meet the academic requirements set by their chosen university.
The selection process will take into account factors such as geographic distribution, field of study, language diversity, and any prior support received from the IAEA. Applications must be submitted through the IAEA’s online portal by the deadline of 31 October 2025. Interested candidates can find detailed information on the programme, eligibility criteria, and application procedures at iaea.org/MSCFP.
For further assistance, applicants may contact the Human Resource Development Division of the Ministry of Education at (473) 440-2737/417-9762 or via email at [email protected].
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