Belize’s education system is poised for transformation as key stakeholders gather for a pivotal two-day meeting to chart the course for the next five years. Hosted by the Ministry of Education, the Education Sector Plan meeting focuses on evaluating the achievements and challenges of the Belize Education Sector Plan (BESPlan) 2021–2025 and laying the groundwork for the 2026–2030 strategy. Education Minister Oscar Requena emphasized the importance of this collaborative review, highlighting significant progress in areas such as student enrollment across all levels, from preprimary to tertiary education. The meeting aims to identify priorities, address systemic challenges, and craft a comprehensive plan to enhance Belize’s educational landscape. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and equitable access to education, setting the stage for long-term societal and economic benefits.
分类： society
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Body of Norwegian man recovered by Navy in Cabarete
In a tragic incident, the body of a Norwegian national was recovered from the waters off Cabarete, near the Velero Hotel in Sosúa, Puerto Plata province, on Monday afternoon. The Dominican Republic Navy reported that the discovery was made around 2:40 p.m. by the interceptor boat Elnath, approximately two miles from the shore. The victim, identified as 49-year-old Jonas Ovedal, was a resident of Tenares. His remains were transported to the Puerto Plata dock, where forensic pathologist Dr. Miguel Cuevas conducted an initial examination in the presence of judicial authorities. According to the medical report, Ovedal died from drowning. His body was subsequently transferred to the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF) for a detailed autopsy. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact circumstances leading to his death.
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FLASH : Cap
A recent inspection of the Cap-Haïtien prison by the Association of Volunteers for the Reintegration of Prisoners (AVRED-Haiti) has unveiled a dire humanitarian crisis. The facility, designed to accommodate 500 inmates, currently houses 841 individuals, including 30 women, 16 minors, and 795 men. This severe overcrowding exacerbates the already deplorable living conditions, with cells lacking ventilation, light, and basic sanitation. The prison’s clinic, in a state of disrepair, is staffed by only one doctor and one nurse, leaving 20 inmates suffering from infectious and skin diseases without proper medical care. The kitchen is unsanitary, toilets are overflowing, and the main building is cracked and dilapidated, posing a risk of collapse. AVRED-Haiti has condemned the flagrant violations of human rights, including the lack of legal assistance, inadequate healthcare, food insecurity, and the absence of educational or reintegration programs. The association has called for urgent intervention by the State and its partners to address these issues and uphold the dignity of those deprived of their liberty.
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Tsunami drill at MBIA: Wednesday, 5 November 2025
The Grenada Airports Authority (GAA) has announced a Tsunami preparedness drill scheduled to take place at the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. This initiative is part of the GAA’s commitment to enhancing disaster readiness and ensuring the safety of airport users in the face of potential natural disasters. The drill coincides with World Tsunami Awareness Day, highlighting the importance of global awareness and preparedness for such catastrophic events. The exercise will last approximately 1.5 hours, during which normal airport operations will continue uninterrupted. Flights will not be affected, and the airport will remain open to the public. In the unlikely event of an actual emergency during the drill, the simulation will be halted immediately, and standard emergency protocols will be activated. The GAA has urged the public to remain calm and informed, emphasizing that any emergency-like activities observed during this period are part of the planned exercise. The authority expressed gratitude to travelers, airport stakeholders, and the local community for their cooperation and understanding as they work to bolster safety measures and emergency response capabilities. This drill underscores the GAA’s proactive approach to disaster management and its dedication to safeguarding the well-being of all airport users.
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Two Suspects Wanted for Robbing UNO Gas Station
Authorities in Belize City are on the hunt for two individuals implicated in a brazen armed robbery at the UNO gas station located at mile 1.5 on the Philip Goldson Highway. The incident occurred on Friday, November 3, 2025, leaving the community on edge. According to reports, the station manager, Eric Chi, was preparing to make a deposit when he was accosted by one of the suspects, who brandished a firearm and forced him to the ground. An accomplice on a motorcycle assisted in the theft of a substantial amount of cash before both fled the scene. While initial estimates suggest that up to $50,000 was stolen, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Hilberto Romero, Head of the National Crime Investigation Branch, has yet to confirm the exact figure. Romero revealed that the suspects were allegedly lying in wait at a nearby parking lot before targeting the manager. Police are currently examining surveillance footage to aid in the identification and apprehension of the suspects. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement seeks to bring the perpetrators to justice.
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Ministry Clarifies Teacher Payment “Misinformation”
The Ministry of Education has refuted claims that teachers in Belize were left unpaid, following concerns raised by the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU). Minister of Education Oscar Requena clarified in a recent interview that the issue stemmed from delayed allowances and communication gaps rather than unpaid salaries. The controversy dates back to December, when some teachers experienced delays in receiving hardship, responsibility, and salary adjustment allowances. To address this, the ministry issued advance salaries, with the understanding that the amounts would later be deducted from future payments. Requena acknowledged that the lack of timely communication from the financial center may have caused confusion when the deductions were processed. He emphasized that the ministry is actively collaborating with the BNTU to resolve the matter swiftly. The ministry has assured stakeholders that efforts are being made to prevent such misunderstandings in the future. News 5 has reached out to the BNTU for further comment.
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Planning and Development Authority launches training initiative
In a significant move to bolster construction safety and align with global best practices, Grenada’s Planning and Development Authority (PDA) has unveiled the ‘Check Consultant Clause’ under the Regional Building Code. This innovative framework mandates an independent third-party technical review for complex or large-scale developments, ensuring that qualified engineers or architects oversee critical design stages. The initiative aims to mitigate structural and foundational risks, which have recently plagued projects both locally and regionally.
At a recent press conference, PDA Chairman Kenrick Fullerton underscored the importance of this measure, stating, ‘This is not merely about compliance; it’s about safeguarding lives, protecting investments, and fostering public trust in our construction practices. It also supports Grenada’s national resilience agenda.’
To facilitate the rollout, the PDA has partnered with Hon. Tony Gibbs, a renowned regional engineer and author of the Check Consultant implementation guidelines. Gibbs will spearhead a series of technical training sessions and stakeholder seminars in collaboration with the Architectural Society, the Grenada Institute of Professional Engineers (GIPE), and local financial institutions. These sessions will cover Grenada’s multi-hazard environment, including wind, earthquake, and structural safety, while guiding professionals on integrating the Check Consultant process into project workflows.
The first training session is scheduled for Tuesday, 18 November 2025, from 9 am to 1 pm, with both in-person and virtual attendance options. The agenda includes technical briefings on multi-hazard design principles, procedural guidance on the Check Consultant framework, and a Q&A segment for professionals and financial institutions. Participation is mandatory for engineers and architects seeking to qualify as Check Consultants, while financial institutions are strongly encouraged to attend due to the potential impact on construction financing and risk assessment.
This initiative is part of the PDA’s broader modernization efforts, which include the adoption of national Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedures and the Fast-Track Review Policy. These measures aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and public accountability in Grenada’s development sector. For further details or to confirm attendance, stakeholders can contact the PDA Front Desk via email or phone.
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Weekend Records Two Fatal Motorcycle Crashes
In a devastating turn of events, two men lost their lives in separate motorcycle accidents on Saturday, November 3, 2025, in the Cayo District and along the Hummingbird Highway. The incidents have raised concerns about road safety in the region.
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CARILEC to host Annual Occupational Health and Safety Symposium in Grenada
The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) has announced that its annual Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Symposium will take place at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort from November 5 to 7, 2025. This prestigious event will convene safety professionals and disaster coordinators from electric utilities across the region to address emerging risks and innovative strategies in occupational health and safety, particularly within the energy sector. The 2025 symposium, themed “The Changing Landscape of Occupational Health and Safety,” will focus on two critical areas: Climate Change and Workforce Resilience, and Energy-Based Safety (EBS): A New Paradigm in Hazard Recognition. Attendees will explore the effects of climate change on workforce productivity and well-being, while also discussing practical approaches to developing climate-resilient safety systems. The EBS segment will emphasize identifying and mitigating high-energy hazards to prevent serious incidents. Dr. Cletus Bertin, CARILEC Executive Director, highlighted the symposium’s significance, stating, “As the energy sector navigates complex challenges like climate change and digital transformation, this event equips professionals to redefine safety culture and safeguard their most valuable asset: their people.” The symposium will feature panel discussions and interactive workshops, providing a platform for participants to exchange best practices and explore cutting-edge advancements in safety management. For further details, including the full agenda, visit www.carilec.org or email [email protected].
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Celebrating Grenadian greatness: King’s New Year’s Honours
Grenada’s Governor-General, Dame Cécile La Grenade, alongside the nation’s government, has proudly announced the recognition of several distinguished citizens in the 2025 King’s New Year’s Honours. These individuals have been celebrated for their exceptional contributions across various sectors, including public service, culture, education, sports, and community development. Their achievements have not only enriched Grenada’s national identity but also strengthened its communities. Among the honorees, Ruth Elizabeth Rouse was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her extensive public service and diplomatic career, which included roles as High Commissioner to the UK and Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organisation. Keith Emmanuel Richard Williams received the Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his three decades of dedication to Grenadian culture, education, and sports. Other notable recipients include Annie Lauretta Rush-Bain, recognized for her community service and leadership in local organizations, and Lyneth Ann Edwards, posthumously awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her lifelong contributions to art and culture. These honours underscore Grenada’s commitment to excellence and national pride, inspiring future generations to serve their country and humanity with distinction.