The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) recently concluded a pivotal regional engagement series in Guyana (October 8-11), bringing together over 300 educators, students, employers, and stakeholders to deliberate on the ethical and responsible implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational assessments. This initiative, part of CXC’s broader transformational agenda, underscores the organization’s commitment to aligning with the educational policy goals of its member states. Dr. Wayne Wesley, CXC Registrar and CEO, emphasized the importance of embracing AI responsibly during the sessions, which also highlighted innovations like the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC). This modularized qualification aims to expand access to certification for out-of-school youth, part-time students, and adult learners. During a courtesy visit to Guyana’s Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, Dr. Wesley outlined CXC’s ongoing AI initiatives, which align with the Ministry’s strategic objectives. Parag praised CXC’s efforts, noting their consistency with national educational priorities. The engagement series, which began in Barbados in mid-September and extended to Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the OECS, will culminate in an online webinar on October 17. Dr. Nicole Manning, CXC’s Director of Operations, lauded the overwhelming participation and constructive dialogue across the region. Key outcomes include a consensus on allowing students to use AI tools for ideation and enhancements in their School-Based Assessments (SBAs) for the May-June 2026 examinations, provided proper referencing is maintained. Looking ahead, CXC will host a Regional Education Conference in Jamaica (October 28-30) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth, Skills, and Information. Titled ‘Navigating the Digital Age: Rethinking Teaching, Learning, and Assessment,’ the conference will convene top Caribbean educators to strategize on advancing the region’s educational transformation agenda.
作者： admin
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: The mockery of democracy – unmasking the corrupt electoral reform process in Dominica
In the verdant landscapes of Dominica, often hailed as the ‘Nature Isle of the Caribbean,’ the essence of democracy is under severe threat. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and his Dominica Labour Party (DLP) have maintained a tight grip on power for over two decades, raising concerns about the island’s democratic integrity. The introduction of electoral reforms in 2025, ostensibly aimed at enhancing transparency and fairness, has instead been criticized as a calculated move to entrench the ruling party’s dominance. The sidelining of the Electoral Commission, a constitutionally mandated body designed to ensure free and fair elections, has further fueled accusations of authoritarianism. The reform process, which included the tabling of three key bills in December 2024, was marked by chaos and suppression of dissent. Protesters outside the House of Assembly were met with tear gas and rubber bullets, while inside, debate was stifled by the DLP’s overwhelming majority. The InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) has expressed grave concerns over the lack of public scrutiny and the erosion of voter registration safeguards. The deliberate marginalization of the Electoral Commission and the exploitation of vulnerable citizens for voter harvesting have drawn widespread condemnation. Skerrit’s government, bolstered by passport-sale revenues and international alliances, has been accused of turning state machinery into a partisan tool. The 2022 snap elections, boycotted by the opposition and marked by low turnout, set the stage for this escalation. Skerrit’s relentless pursuit of unfair advantage, coupled with his unfulfilled promises of clean governance, has led to growing calls for accountability. Dominica now stands at a crossroads, with its citizens and international allies urged to take a stand against this erosion of democratic principles. The choice is stark: reclaim democratic birthright or succumb to the twilight of one-man rule.
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VS blaast weer boot op nabij Venezuela; 6 doden
In a dramatic military operation, the US Navy destroyed a boat in international waters near the Venezuelan coast on Monday, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, as confirmed by former President Donald Trump. The targeted vessel was allegedly involved in drug trafficking, prompting the US government to label the operation as a strike against ‘narcoterrorists.’ Trump released a video showing the moment the boat exploded, emphasizing the action as part of America’s broader campaign against illegal drug networks. The US administration defended the operation, asserting its legality under international law and its alignment with efforts to combat organized crime. However, the incident has drawn criticism from legal experts and human rights advocates, who question the transparency and justification of such attacks, particularly in the absence of publicly disclosed evidence. Critics argue that the move sets a concerning precedent for unilateral military actions in international waters, raising questions about adherence to international legal standards.
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CBH Participates in Disaster Management Exhibition
On October 14th, the Central Board of Health (CBH) actively participated in a Disaster Management Exhibition organized by the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS). The event, themed ‘Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,’ was held at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre and attracted hundreds of students accompanied by their teachers. Various agencies showcased their roles and responsibilities before, during, and after disasters, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and resilience. The CBH team, known for its focus on public health areas such as food safety, vector control, and sanitation during disasters like hurricanes, chose to spotlight water safety and hygiene practices at this exhibition. At one display table, the team demonstrated practical methods to ensure water safety, including boiling, adding unscented household bleach, and using chlorine tablets. They stressed the critical need for using potable water to prevent health risks. Another display used props to illustrate the dangers of walking or playing in floodwaters, explaining how these waters can become contaminated by damaged septic tanks and pit latrines, harboring harmful germs that can cause illness. Through these interactive displays, participants gained essential knowledge on making water safe for consumption and the importance of avoiding contact with floodwaters after heavy rains or storms. The exhibition served as a valuable platform for educating the public on disaster resilience and health safety measures.
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Community Road Repairs Underway in Tyrell’s, Bathlodge, Clare Hall and Golden Grove
The Ministry of Works has initiated a widespread road repair campaign targeting several key areas, including Tyrell’s, Bathlodge, Clare Hall, and Golden Grove. This initiative aims to bolster road infrastructure in preparation for the impending rainy season. In Bathlodge, crews are currently engaged in base preparation, while patching teams are actively working in Clare Hall and Golden Grove. Officials have emphasized that these efforts are part of the ministry’s broader strategy to enhance community infrastructure and ensure safer, more reliable roadways. The ministry has also expressed appreciation for the recent favorable weather conditions, which have enabled the continuation of work following delays caused by earlier rainfall. This project underscores the government’s commitment to improving public infrastructure and addressing the needs of local communities.
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Antigua Yacht Club Commodore Dr. Clarence Pilgrim Hails October Mini Dinghy Regatta Champions
The Antigua Yacht Club recently concluded its October Mini Dinghy Regatta, a vibrant event that highlighted the prowess of young sailors in various competitive classes. The regatta, part of the club’s youth sailing series, aims to nurture the next generation of skilled sailors. Among the standout performers were Shanoy Malone, who clinched victory in the Laser Class, and Tyden Jones, who emerged triumphant in the Optimist Class. The Optimist Class also saw Ruben Van Hest and Lluc Agusti securing second and third places, respectively. Commodore Dr. Clarence Pilgrim extended heartfelt congratulations to all participants, emphasizing their dedication and talent. Provisional results from the event are now accessible on the Antigua Yacht Club’s official website. The regatta not only showcased competitive spirit but also reinforced the club’s commitment to fostering young talent in sailing. Photos from the event, credited to Loraine Mitchell Gaillard, captured the excitement and determination of the participants.
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Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister Showcases Key Initiatives at OECS Council Meeting
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) held its 8th Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs (COM:FA) on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly. The gathering, set against a backdrop of global geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, and climate crises, aimed to forge a unified strategy for the resilience and survival of small island developing states. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, emphasized the critical nature of the Council’s work, stating that the region’s challenges demand swift, coordinated, and sustained action. He stressed that the Council’s deliberations are essential for shaping policies that directly impact the resilience, sustainability, and prosperity of OECS Member States. Dr. Jules remarked, ‘In the face of turbulence, our mandate is clear: to safeguard resilience, defend sovereignty, and chart a sustainable future for our people. Our strength lies in solidarity and strategy.’ Hon. Frederick Stephenson, incoming Chair of the COM:FA and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, highlighted the importance of small states in the global community. He stated, ‘Our states, though modest in size, are indispensable voices in the global community. The seas are rising, but so too is our steadfastness. The challenges gather, but so too does our unity.’ The meeting saw the handover of the Chairmanship from Hon. Alva Baptiste of Saint Lucia to Hon. Frederick Stephenson. Ministers discussed a range of issues, including the reaffirmation of the region’s commitment to transforming Citizenship by Investment programmes, enhancing coordination ahead of COP30 in Brazil, and addressing Haiti’s crisis through humanitarian assistance and diplomacy. They also endorsed the expansion of the Canadian Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme and supported the OECS Joint Embassies in Rabat as a cost-effective platform for advancing relations with Morocco and Africa. The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, emphasizing that the decisions taken were concrete steps to protect livelihoods, strengthen regional unity, and amplify the Caribbean voice on the global stage. A special virtual meeting will be convened before November 2025 to accelerate work on joint mission restructuring and consolidate progress on the Council’s commitments.
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Antigua and Barbuda urges concrete financing reforms and quarterly accountability at OAS sustainable development meeting
At the 7th Regular Meeting of the Inter-American Committee on Sustainable Development (CIDS), held at the Organization of American States, Ambassador Sir Ronald Sanders of Antigua and Barbuda delivered a compelling address on the urgent need for tailored financing mechanisms to support vulnerable nations. Emphasizing the practical challenges faced by small states, Sir Ronald highlighted the necessity of keeping electricity operational post-storms, ensuring educational facilities, rebuilding infrastructure, and maintaining fiscal space for essential services like healthcare and pensions. He criticized the inefficacy of vague promises and delayed funding, calling for concrete actions to address these critical issues. Sir Ronald outlined three immediate priorities: 1) Financing terms that align with risk, including standardized 30-year maturities, five-year grace periods, and automatic payment pauses post-disasters for high-vulnerability states. He advocated for the use of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) in determining access to grants and low-cost loans. 2) Transparent partner commitments, urging each partner to publicly declare their funding contributions for Caribbean projects by June 30, 2026, and to establish a dedicated fund for transport and basic services. 3) Quarterly public accountability reports from CIDS, tracking metrics such as coastal protection coverage, disaster recovery timelines, renewable energy adoption, and debt service ratios. Additionally, Sir Ronald proposed the creation of a small OAS project-preparation team focused on coastal defenses and water security, along with a public timeline webpage to monitor commitments and deadlines. Concluding his address, he stressed the importance of upfront resilience financing and the inclusion of loan repayment pauses during disasters as a standard loan condition.
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Lions Club of Antigua Celebrates 57 Years of Service to the Nation
The Lions Club of Antigua is set to celebrate its 57th anniversary with a week-long series of events from October 10th to 18th, 2025. This milestone underscores the Club’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian service, community engagement, and wellness initiatives. Established on October 14th, 1968, the Lions Club of Antigua has been a pivotal force in addressing the needs of thousands of individuals and families across the island. As it enters its 57th year, the Club reaffirms its mission to empower volunteers, meet humanitarian needs, and foster peace and international understanding. The anniversary week will feature a diverse array of activities, including a church service and food distribution, media appearances, a mental health workshop, and a celebratory social gathering. Additionally, the Club will honor its longstanding members and extend its outreach to Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital, where it will install benches and initiate a backyard garden project. The Lions Club of Antigua invites the community to join in these celebrations and continue supporting its mission of service with integrity, humility, and compassion. For more details on the events and how to get involved, visit the Club’s social media pages and website.
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Average Pension Payments could reach EC$3,000 within a few years
In a remarkable development, average pension payments in Antigua and Barbuda have more than doubled in recent years, soaring from approximately EC$1,000 to around EC$2,100. According to David Mathias, Executive Director of the Social Security Board, this upward trajectory could see pensions reaching EC$3,000 within the next few years. This surge is attributed to higher contribution levels and the increasing longevity of retirees, which has placed greater strain on the fund’s resources. Mathias emphasized that each new retiree is contributing at higher rates but also drawing more from the system due to longer lifespans. While short-term contribution income remains stable, long-term liabilities are outpacing inflows, raising concerns about the fund’s sustainability. Traditional solutions, such as increasing contribution rates or raising the pensionable age, have been met with public resistance. To address this, the Social Security Board has pivoted toward generating income through strategic investments. A key initiative is the government-backed redevelopment of the Jolly Beach Resort, which will be financed by the government and later transferred to the Social Security Board as equity. This innovative approach allows the fund to benefit from dividends and hotel revenues without directly utilizing contributors’ money. Transparency is ensured through monthly and quarterly reporting to Cabinet, and an expanded investment committee comprising banking and valuation experts will oversee the process. The ultimate goal is to bolster the fund’s cash flow, build a sustainable reserve, and ensure timely pension payments even during economic downturns. This forward-thinking strategy aims to secure the financial stability of Antigua and Barbuda’s social security system for future generations.