Carib Scope

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  • Digicel Foundation donates US$80,000 smart lab to Church Teachers’ College

    Digicel Foundation donates US$80,000 smart lab to Church Teachers’ College

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to revolutionize teacher preparation, the Digicel Foundation has inaugurated an advanced US$80,000 Smart Laboratory at Church Teachers’ College in Mandeville. This initiative marks a pivotal step in accelerating digital transformation within Jamaica’s educational framework, directly addressing the need for technologically proficient educators.

    The official unveiling ceremony on Tuesday featured prominent education stakeholders who emphasized the strategic importance of the investment. Dr. Tamika Benjamin, Assistant Chief Education Officer for the Tertiary Unit at the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, characterized the project as a visionary commitment to national human capital development.

    “This initiative transcends the establishment of a physical facility; it embodies a deliberate investment in Jamaica’s educational future,” Dr. Benjamin declared. “By focusing on teacher education, we are fundamentally investing in our students and enabling the comprehensive modernization of pedagogy to align with global digital advancements.”

    Dr. Benjamin further elaborated that sustainable educational reform is intrinsically linked to high-quality teacher preparation. She commended the Digicel Foundation for expanding its Smart Lab program—previously implemented in primary and secondary schools—into the tertiary teacher-training sector, calling it a demonstration of exceptional foresight.

    “Educators constitute the most critical school-based determinant of student success,” she asserted. “Consequently, the overall caliber of our education system is ultimately bounded by the quality of the teachers we train.”

    She charged teacher-training institutions with the national mandate to produce graduates who are not only pedagogically skilled and knowledgeable in their subject areas but also digitally literate, innovative, and adaptable to the needs of 21st-century learners.

    Charmaine Daniels, Chief Executive Officer of the Digicel Foundation, outlined that the new lab is a key component of a broader national strategy designed to enhance digital access and foster technological confidence among the teaching community.

    Reflecting on the resilience of Jamaican educators, Daniels shared observations from the foundation’s weekly community and school visits following Hurricane Melissa. She praised teachers for their unwavering dedication amidst challenging circumstances.

    “Despite damaged classrooms and personal hardships, educators consistently prioritized their students’ learning and Jamaica’s collective future,” Daniels stated, underscoring the rationale behind investing in those who shape the nation’s youth.

    — Adapted from JIS reporting

  • Hurricane Melissa now tied for strongest Atlantic hurricane following new report

    Hurricane Melissa now tied for strongest Atlantic hurricane following new report

    A conclusive analysis from the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) has officially elevated Hurricane Melissa to a historic and devastating status. The final report confirms that the cyclone’s maximum sustained winds reached an extraordinary 190 mph, a figure that places it in a dead heat with 1980’s Hurricane Allen for the most powerful Atlantic hurricane ever recorded by wind speed.

    The significant revision, moving the estimate from the initial 185 mph, was determined through advanced data collected by reconnaissance aircraft during the storm’s peak intensity over the ocean. While its landfall wind speed upon striking Jamaica on October 28th remains officially recorded at 185 mph, the storm’s ferocity was further underscored by a separate, breathtaking measurement. A specialized dropsonde instrument deployed by the National Center for Atmospheric Research registered a wind gust of 252 mph, establishing a new global benchmark for the highest wind gust ever captured by such technology.

    The human cost of this meteorological monster was severe. Hurricane Melissa’s path of destruction across the Caribbean resulted in 95 confirmed fatalities. The island of Jamaica, particularly its western regions, bore the brunt of the impact with 45 deaths and widespread catastrophic damage that rendered entire communities uninhabitable. Neighboring nations also suffered greatly, with Haiti reporting 43 deaths, the Dominican Republic 4, and Cuba 1. This tragic toll echoes the legacy of Hurricane Allen, which, despite not making landfall in the Caribbean, was responsible for over 220 deaths in Haiti alone, highlighting the immense destructive potential of such high-intensity storms even from a distance.

  • Cuba denounces ‘infiltration’ by armed group in speedboat from US

    Cuba denounces ‘infiltration’ by armed group in speedboat from US

    HAVANA, Cuba — Cuban authorities reported a decisive maritime confrontation on Wednesday, resulting in multiple casualties after coast guard forces intercepted a Florida-registered speedboat allegedly attempting an armed infiltration. According to an official statement from Cuba’s Interior Ministry, the incident culminated in a lethal exchange of gunfire near Cuban territorial waters, leaving four individuals dead and six others wounded.

    The Ministry’s investigation revealed that those detained following the engagement confessed their intentions to execute a terrorist infiltration mission. Security forces discovered an arsenal of military-grade equipment aboard the vessel, including assault rifles, handguns, and Molotov cocktails. Officials identified all ten apprehended suspects as Cuban expatriates residing in the United States.

    This episode represents one of the most significant security breaches in recent Cuba-US relations, occurring amid heightened tensions between the neighboring nations. The Cuban government has characterized the event as a coordinated terrorist attempt, underscoring ongoing geopolitical friction and highlighting concerns about cross-border security threats. Authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the full scope of the alleged plot and its international connections.

  • Dominican squad heads to Guadeloupe for Carifta trials

    Dominican squad heads to Guadeloupe for Carifta trials

    Seventeen elite track and field athletes and five officials from Aspire Athletics Club are poised to represent Dominica at the upcoming Guadalupe CARIFTA Trials, demonstrating remarkable resilience amid significant challenges. The delegation, characterized by head coach Nabi Wallace as “a diverse team of sprinters, jumpers, throwers, and middle-distance runners,” includes five pre-qualified competitors—three of whom currently hold national records.

    The team’s departure is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25th, with competition set for Saturday, February 29th from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM local time. Prior to the trials, athletes will engage in two crucial days of training at the Guadalupe stadium, allowing them to acclimatize to the synthetic track, jumping pits, and throwing areas—a strategic advantage that could significantly impact performance outcomes.

    Coach Wallace revealed in an official audio statement that preparation has been hampered by multiple obstacles, including volatile weather patterns, suboptimal training facilities, and financial constraints. “Nevertheless,” Wallace emphasized, “we have pushed through with our fundraising committee and the help of the Dominica Athletics Association and the Dominica Olympic Committee, along with adopters, supporters, and well-wishers. This is truly a team effort.”

    Highlighting the team’s philosophical approach, Wallace stressed the importance of faith and unity in their quest for athletic excellence. The primary objective remains making history through record-breaking performances and securing medal positions for Dominica at the CARIFTA Games. The 2026 CARIFTA Games are scheduled for April 4-6 at Grenada’s Kirani James Stadium, serving as the ultimate destination for these emerging Caribbean athletes.

  • Rotary Club Announces Winners of Peace Art Poster Competition

    Rotary Club Announces Winners of Peace Art Poster Competition

    The Rotary Club of Antigua has unveiled the distinguished winners of its annual Peace Art Poster Competition, celebrating the creative expressions of young artists advocating for global harmony. The organization reported an exceptional caliber of entries that transformed the judging procedure into both an inspirational and demanding endeavor, with students presenting profound artistic visions of peace.

    Victors emerged across four distinct age brackets, showcasing talent from various educational institutions. Peace-Marie Browne from St. Nicholas Primary School claimed victory in the youngest category (ages 5-7), while Haedriana Bent of Five Islands Primary School triumphed in the 8-10 age group.

    The adolescent categories witnessed equally impressive achievements. Deja Neke Philo from Clare Hall Secondary School (CKHS) earned premier recognition in the 11-13 division, with fellow CKHS student Tianna Henry dominating the 14-16 age category.

    In their official communiqué, the Rotary Club extended commendations to all participants for their extraordinary passion and inventive approaches. The organization additionally acknowledged the crucial support provided by educators, parental figures, and academic establishments in fostering this meaningful initiative.

    Event coordinators emphasized that the competition persists as a vital channel for the younger generation to communicate potent messages of unity and reconciliation through visual artistry. The initiative continues to reinforce the Rotary Club’s enduring commitment to nurturing peaceful dialogue and creative problem-solving among Antigua’s youth population.

  • Oemraw spreekt van ‘karaktermoord’ en wijst op hervormingen bij SZF

    Oemraw spreekt van ‘karaktermoord’ en wijst op hervormingen bij SZF

    In a striking written statement, Rudrakanth Oemraw, the currently suspended Director-General of Suriname’s State Health Insurance Fund (SZF), has vehemently responded to the controversy surrounding his leadership. He claims the allegations against him constitute unfounded assumptions, an unjust suspension, and even attempts at “character assassination.”

    Oemraw emphasized that upon assuming his role, he received no formal handover from previous management. Despite this, he immediately implemented sweeping measures to revitalize the institution. Under his guidance, the SZF reportedly achieved several critical improvements:

    – Establishment of a 24-hour accessible General Practitioners Post (HAPS) for clients
    – Expansion of SZF pharmacy and Ligeon services to round-the-clock operations
    – Recovery of approximately SRD 30 million in wasted funds and/or overbilling from service providers
    – Significant enhancement of workplace conditions, transforming what he described as a “mouse hole” where staff worked under difficult circumstances
    – Streamlining payment processes to service providers to reduce arrears and protect institutional reputation
    – Initiation of digital transformation to reduce paper-based claim processing and increase transparency
    – Addressing overlapping payments within the healthcare chain and launching initiatives to ensure BGVS viability

    Oemraw maintains these reforms required substantial capacity building and expert recruitment to succeed.

    The embattled director further revealed that multiple investigations were launched since his appointment, including a comprehensive review dating back to 2018. He alleges this investigation was sabotaged and claims he was pressured to reverse findings, which he refused. These actions, he states, resulted in “serious threats” against both himself and his family, necessitating security measures.

    Regarding his recent leave and subsequent suspension, Oemraw contends he was initially placed on two days’ leave before being unjustly suspended. He observes unusual haste in replacing him and indicates he was encouraged to resign voluntarily.

    Media reports referencing an alleged investigation report are dismissed as “subjective, distorted creations” that he never formally received. Oemraw asserts authorities deliberately chose to publicly discredit him rather than await proper investigative outcomes.

    The director has declined to provide additional details to media outlets, stating his written response comprehensively represents his position. He promises further elaboration after additional consultation, concluding that “the final word on this matter has not yet been spoken.”

  • President feliciteert Jetten; persoonlijk onderhoud tussen regeringsleiders in voorbereiding

    President feliciteert Jetten; persoonlijk onderhoud tussen regeringsleiders in voorbereiding

    In a significant diplomatic exchange, Surinamese President Jennifer Simons has formally congratulated Rob Jetten on his appointment as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The official message, delivered on behalf of both the Surinamese government and its citizens, marks an important step in reinforcing bilateral relations between the two nations.

    President Simons expressed particular appreciation for the existing relationship between Suriname and the Netherlands, emphasizing the critical importance of further deepening these ties. She specifically referenced the recent state visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima to Suriname in December 2025, noting that this royal engagement significantly contributed to strengthening mutual trust and understanding between the countries.

    The Surinamese leader conveyed her anticipation for future collaboration built upon principles of equality and mutual benefit. In her congratulatory message, President Simons extended wishes for success, strength, and wisdom to the new Dutch government leader in executing his official duties.

    Concurrently, Melvin Bouva, Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation, confirmed to local media that both foreign ministries are actively preparing for a personal meeting between President Simons and Prime Minister Jetten. This high-level discussion is scheduled to occur in the near future, signaling both nations’ commitment to enhanced diplomatic engagement.

    These coordinated diplomatic initiatives aim to intensify bilateral relations further, with cooperation based on respect for sovereignty and mutual interest standing as central pillars of the ongoing dialogue between Suriname and the Netherlands.

  • ExxonMobil launches US$100 million science, tech, math initiative for Guyana

    ExxonMobil launches US$100 million science, tech, math initiative for Guyana

    In a landmark move for educational development, global energy giant ExxonMobil has unveiled a comprehensive decade-long initiative valued at US$100 million to revolutionize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education throughout Guyana. The announcement was formally made by ExxonMobil Chairman and CEO Darren Woods during a high-profile dinner event at the Guyanese State House, the official presidential residence, on Monday evening.

    The ambitious program, designed to span ten years, will fundamentally reshape Guyana’s educational infrastructure by implementing multiple strategic projects targeting both students and educators. Central to the initiative is the establishment of an extensive teacher training framework for secondary-level mathematics and science instruction, developed through a collaborative partnership with Guyana’s Ministry of Education and the University of Guyana.

    A cornerstone of the project involves creating a nationwide network of specialized STEM centers dedicated to hands-on learning experiences for teenagers and young adults. The inaugural facility is scheduled for construction at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus in Georgetown, with completion targeted for the 2028-2029 timeframe. This center will emulate a successful model previously observed by Guyanese President Irfaan Ali during his visit to Houston, Texas, last year.

    President Ali emphasized the critical importance of adhering to the 2028 completion deadline during his address, noting that trainer and facilitator development would commence almost immediately. The president highlighted that situating the center within a university environment would provide younger students with early exposure to campus life while significantly elevating the quality of STEM education nationwide.

    The high-level event, broadcast via delayed livestream on the president’s official Facebook platform, gathered government ministers, private sector representatives, senior military and police officials, ExxonMobil executives, and diplomatic personnel from the United States Embassy.

  • COMMENTARY: Kubuli Farms – Cultivating innovation, inclusion and opportunity in Dominica

    COMMENTARY: Kubuli Farms – Cultivating innovation, inclusion and opportunity in Dominica

    In the heart of Dominica, Jeffrey Bruney has transformed Kubuli Farms into a beacon of agricultural innovation, demonstrating how purpose-driven farming can reshape economies and communities. His unconventional journey from telecommunications professional to agricultural pioneer spans 34 years, embodying a profound career shift that has yielded significant social and economic impacts.

    Bruney’s agricultural awakening began after a decade at Cable and Wireless, where despite financial stability, he found little fulfillment. The late Prime Minister Roosevelt Douglas catalyzed his transition with pivotal advice: ‘If your passion can be your livelihood, there’s no better life than that.’ This philosophy became the foundation for Bruney’s approach to agriculture as a vehicle for dignity, independence, and societal contribution.

    In 2000, Bruney embarked on an intentional migration to enhance his expertise, pursuing business studies and advanced agricultural training at Cornell University. His international experience included implementing innovative farming systems in New York and Sweden, where he developed greenhouse production initiatives for major organizations including Salvation Army and United Way. These experiences equipped him with cutting-edge knowledge in hydroponics, aquaponics, and aquaculture systems.

    Returning permanently to Dominica in 2019, Bruney established Kubuli Farms as a practical application of his global learning. The operation prioritizes context-appropriate innovation, utilizing locally sourced materials like bamboo and PVC for greenhouse construction instead of expensive imported systems. The farm’s hybrid aquaponics system converts fish waste into organic fertilizer delivered through drip irrigation, significantly reducing chemical inputs and operational costs while maintaining environmental sustainability.

    Kubuli Farms’ commercial success is anchored by its flagship product, Glo Coco coconut water, which has become a recognizable brand in Dominican markets. Coconut production forms the operational core, supplemented by diverse secondary crops including tomatoes, lettuce, bell peppers, and cabbages that enhance local food security and nutritional variety.

    Bruney’s innovative approach earned him the Farmer of the Year for Innovation award within just one year of production expansion. Beyond agricultural output, Kubuli Farms addresses critical industry challenges through workforce development. Bruney has created an inclusive employment model that integrates Dominican nationals, Kalinago Territory residents, youth, and migrant workers from Haiti and Cuba. This diversity helps overcome skilled labor shortages while providing lawful employment and professional development opportunities.

    The farm serves as an educational platform challenging perceptions about agricultural work. Youth engagement initiatives reframe farming as a technology-driven career path, while demonstrating its financial viability and entrepreneurial potential. Bruney’s model also encourages diaspora members to repatriate skills acquired abroad, creating knowledge transfer that supports Dominica’s growing tourism sector and market expansion.

    Through this multifaceted approach, Kubuli Farms exemplifies agriculture’s potential as a catalyst for food security, employment generation, technological innovation, and social inclusion. Bruney’s business-oriented methodology combined with modern techniques contributes significantly to Dominica’s economic resilience and sustainable development, offering a replicable model for private sector leadership in agricultural transformation.

  • Ongezonde lucht door Saharastof en rook van branden

    Ongezonde lucht door Saharastof en rook van branden

    Suriname’s Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor has escalated public health warnings as an unprecedented concentration of Saharan dust engulfs the region, creating hazardous air conditions expected to persist through late February 2026. This atmospheric phenomenon, identified as the most significant dust infiltration of the year, has triggered official recommendations for vulnerable populations to implement protective measures immediately.

    The current environmental crisis stems from two primary sources: the transatlantic migration of Saharan Air Layer particulate matter and localized pollution from waste burning and grassland fires. The Saharan dust plume, visible since February 22nd, contains elevated concentrations of PM2.5 particles—microscopic contaminants capable of penetrating deep into respiratory systems. These fine particulates similarly emerge from residential waste combustion practices, compounding existing air quality deterioration.

    Medical authorities emphasize heightened risks for asthmatics, elderly residents, children, and individuals with pre-existing cardiac or pulmonary conditions. Exposure may precipitate asthma attacks, bronchial complications, and allergic responses including hay fever. High humidity levels interacting with dust particles may additionally provoke dermatological conditions such as eczema. Common symptoms encompass persistent dry coughing, sore throat, ocular irritation with excessive tearing, and respiratory discomfort with sneezing or nasal discharge.

    The ministry’s comprehensive advisory outlines critical protective protocols:
    – High-risk individuals should remain indoors with windows and doors secured
    – Implementation of HEPA filtration systems or recirculating air conditioning
    – Mandatory N95/KN95 mask usage outdoors (cloth and surgical masks provide inadequate protection)
    – Maintain hydration to preserve respiratory moisture barriers
    – Adhere strictly to prescribed allergy and asthma medications
    – Employ water rinses or hydrating eye drops for ocular irritation
    – Community vigilance regarding elderly and vulnerable individuals
    – Complete cessation of waste burning activities
    – Immediate medical consultation for respiratory distress, persistent cough, or severe allergic manifestations

    Health officials underscore collective societal responsibility in mitigating health impacts during this exceptional environmental event, emphasizing that coordinated community action remains essential for public welfare protection.