Carib Scope

分类： society

  • UWI 2026 year-in-review council meetings start this week, (with livecast link)

    UWI 2026 year-in-review council meetings start this week, (with livecast link)

    The University of the West Indies (UWI) commences its 2026 Council Meetings series on March 6 at the Mona Campus, initiating a comprehensive institutional review process that will engage all five campuses through May. This annual governance cycle begins with a keynote address by Professor Densil Williams, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal, who will present the university’s 2024-2025 performance metrics encompassing research breakthroughs, operational achievements, and community engagement statistics.

    The coordinated meetings will sequentially convene governance bodies from Mona, Cave Hill, St. Augustine, Five Islands, and the Global Campus, culminating in the University Council Meeting on May 8. Each session will feature detailed evaluations of institutional accountability reports and facilitate stakeholder dialogues regarding strategic development priorities.

    In a significant commitment to institutional transparency, all proceedings will be publicly broadcast through UWItv platforms, maintaining UWI’s tradition of open governance. As a multi-nation publicly funded institution serving 17 countries, these broadcasts enable Campus Principals and Vice-Chancellor Beckles to disclose operational, financial, and academic advancements directly to constituents.

    The timing of these assessments follows UWI’s recent recognition by Times Higher Education, which ranked the institution among the global top 3.6% of universities worldwide—a notable achievement among approximately 35,000 institutions internationally. The live-streamed sessions will incorporate dedicated media question-and-answer segments, with interactive participation channels available throughout broadcasts.

    All meetings are accessible via www.uwitv.global and UWItv’s dedicated Flow Channels, ensuring widespread public and media access to the university’s governance processes.

  • Gang members given keys to their prison cells

    Gang members given keys to their prison cells

    In a significant ruling addressing public violence, six individuals involved in a gang-related confrontation at a Kingstown KFC outlet have received suspended prison sentences. Chief Magistrate Colin John delivered the verdict at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, imposing a six-month prison term suspended for two years upon each defendant.

    The convicted individuals include Kimron Jacobs, Jazrick Young (16, student), Kezron Peters (17, car wash attendant), Verron Holder (17, salesperson), Gabriel Haywood (18, construction worker), and Ivorn Thomas (23). All parties pleaded guilty to charges of affray stemming from the February 13 incident.

    According to prosecution evidence presented by Inspector Renrick Cato, the violence erupted around 9 p.m. following a sports event at Independence Park. The altercation began as a verbal dispute between Thomas and another patron inside the Bay Street restaurant before escalating into a physical confrontation. Participants reportedly utilized restaurant objects as weapons during the melee.

    Police investigation, aided by CCTV footage, revealed connections to local gang networks. During interviews, defendants acknowledged associations between the ‘Eight and 6ixx’ gangs and the ‘Five and 7even’ gangs operating across multiple communities including Georgetown, Campden Park, and Sandy Bay.

    Notably, Haywood—a former Police Youth Club member who dropped out of school in Form 3—claimed gang involvement resulted from needing to protect a bullied cousin. The magistrate emphasized the defendants’ behavior brought embarrassment to both themselves and their families while urging them to pursue educational opportunities.

    Prosecutor Cato highlighted the offense’s severity, noting public location and property damage to warning signs. While personally favoring imprisonment, he professionally recommended suspended sentences, stating defendants should ‘hold the keys to their own cells’ for future behavior.

    The court noted that despite previously admitting gang affiliations, all defendants except Thomas denied membership when their parents attended proceedings.

  • Parham, Seatons, and Glanvilles Residents Invited to Shape Local Conservation Actions

    Parham, Seatons, and Glanvilles Residents Invited to Shape Local Conservation Actions

    A comprehensive national survey initiative titled “Community Voices for Conservation” is now underway across Antigua and Barbuda, spearheaded by the IHO Nature Rangers in collaboration with the EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network. The project specifically targets residents in coastal communities including Parham, Seatons, Willikies, Glanvilles, and surrounding areas adjacent to the North East Marine Management Area (NEMMA).

    The survey represents a critical effort to gauge public awareness, environmental concerns, and community interest in biodiversity preservation. By collecting firsthand insights from populations whose livelihoods and cultural heritage are intrinsically linked to marine ecosystems, organizers aim to develop precisely tailored conservation strategies that address real-world needs and priorities.

    Data gathered through this initiative will directly inform multiple environmental programs including youth engagement campaigns, educational outreach, wetland monitoring systems, and community consultation processes. This evidence-based approach ensures that conservation actions under the “Strengthening Conservation Actions in the North East Marine Management Area” project remain responsive to local conditions and community input.

    Project Manager Britney McDonald emphasized the participatory nature of the endeavor, stating: “Community voices are essential to effective conservation. When residents share their perspectives, they help shape practical solutions that protect biodiversity while supporting livelihoods and resilience.”

    The initiative builds upon previous community engagement efforts, including recent clean-up activities at the Glanvilles football field and planned sign installations. Funded by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and the World Bank, with implementation support from the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute and Integrated Health Outreach, the project represents a significant investment in community-led environmental stewardship that will benefit both current and future generations.

  • SVG represented at regional CSOs conference in Jamaica

    SVG represented at regional CSOs conference in Jamaica

    Jamaica served as the host for a landmark gathering of civil society organization (CSO) leaders from across the Caribbean region from February 24th to 27th. The inaugural Caribbean CSO Conference assembled 120 delegates representing twelve nations, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Suriname, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    Organized through a partnership between the Canadian-funded Local Engagement and Action Fund (LEAF) and the Caribbean Development Bank’s Basic Needs Trust Fund, the conference adopted a practical, execution-oriented approach. The four-day forum was strategically designed to enhance collaboration, stimulate innovation, and facilitate strategic dialogue to bolster regional resilience and impact.

    Canada’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, Mark Berman, emphasized the critical function of CSOs in tackling persistent development challenges. He identified climate vulnerability, youth unemployment, gender inequality, and protection of vulnerable populations as key areas where civil society plays an indispensable role. Commissioner Berman further urged organizations to adapt to global transformations by strengthening governance structures, financial resilience, digital capabilities, and advocacy efforts.

    George Yearwood, Portfolio Manager for the CDB Basic Needs Trust Fund, reinforced the institutional recognition of CSOs as fundamental pillars of sustainable development throughout the Caribbean. He highlighted how non-governmental and community-based organizations consistently serve as first responders during crises and maintain positions as trusted advocates within marginalized communities, championing causes ranging from social justice and environmental stewardship to gender equality and youth empowerment.

    The conference, themed “The Shift: Igniting Civil Society’s Next Chapter,” centered its discussions around four critical pillars: funding and sustainability models, technology and artificial intelligence integration, operational excellence, and enhanced advocacy and visibility strategies. The event concluded with a World NGO Day celebration featuring a regional showcase that honored the vital contributions of CSOs to Caribbean development progress.

  • Dominicanos en Antigua conmemoran 182 años de Independencia con gran celebración cultural

    Dominicanos en Antigua conmemoran 182 años de Independencia con gran celebración cultural

    The Movement for Innovative Development of Dominicans in Antigua (MODEINDA) successfully orchestrated the 182nd anniversary celebration of Dominican Republic’s independence in St. John’s, Antigua, marking two decades of cultural preservation efforts since 2003. Under the leadership of President Manuel Melenciano Herrera, the organization brought together diverse community elements to create a vibrant celebration of Dominican heritage.

    The extensive preparations involved months of coordinated effort, with rehearsals commencing January 6th and continuing weekdays for two months. The event featured multiple performance groups including traditional provincial representations by children aged 4-10, Batton Ballet for teens (11-18), Taínos group of mixed ages, children’s merengue dance, Alibaba group, and the Mangulina Group’s choreography.

    Financial and logistical support formed the backbone of the celebration, with Melenciano contributing significantly as primary sponsor. His investments included costumes for seventy participants, refreshments and transportation during rehearsal months, accommodation and meals for nine artists, six airline tickets from Dominican Republic to Antigua, $11,000 for artistic groups, and $6,500 EC for stage complex, lighting, and live band setup.

    The event enjoyed substantial institutional support, with Honorable Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Tourism Minister Henry Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez providing artist accommodations. Acting Chief of Agricultural Extension Ika Fergus supplied the ceremony venue, while Ambassador Lionel Max Hurst facilitated visa exemption approvals. Police commissioners ensured parade security from Yasco to Agricultural Extension Division with escort services.

    Dominican Republic’s diplomatic representatives, including Ambassador Yolanda Alexandra Victoria Álvarez and Consul General Julio César Mateo Báez, provided both financial contributions and organizational support. Additional sponsors included Carolina Mejía ($3,000 EC), Lola Disco (half of return tickets for artists), Luz Melenciano ($650 EC), Yocasta Salon ($200 EC), Juan Trucking Services ($1,500 EC), and Joe Mike’s Restaurant and Casino ($1,700 EC plus stage equipment). Sky High Airline contributed three one-way tickets from Dominican Republic.

    Local businesses demonstrated community solidarity through promotional t-shirt sponsorships: Media Luna Construction (100 shirts), Media Luna Radio Station (100 shirts), Media Luna Apartments (100 shirts), Health First Pharmacy (75 shirts), Fernando Taxi (50 shirts), and Banca La Perla (24 shirts), all distributed freely to the community.

    The celebration notably featured collaborative elements, with MODEINDA inviting Alex Martínez’s group to present their artist during the festivities, demonstrating inter-group cooperation within the cultural community.

  • Mill Reef Fund Donates $19,500 to Adopt-A-Family Soup Kitchen

    Mill Reef Fund Donates $19,500 to Adopt-A-Family Soup Kitchen

    In a significant philanthropic move, the Mill Reef Fund has contributed $19,500 to bolster the operational capacity of the Adopt-A-Family soup kitchen. This substantial financial injection will directly enhance ongoing initiatives to provide nutritious meals for economically disadvantaged individuals and families within the community.

    The ceremonial presentation of the donation was conducted by Helene van Beuren, Melanie Letby, and Fuller Cowles, who represented the Mill Reef Fund during the official handover event. The contribution arrives during a period of sustained high demand for food assistance services, underscoring its critical importance to the organization’s sustainability.

    According to statements from Adopt-A-Family management, these funds will be allocated exclusively toward their core mission of preparing and distributing hot meals to those facing food insecurity. The organization emphasized that such partnerships with community stakeholders are instrumental in maintaining uninterrupted daily meal services and keeping their facilities operational.

    Organization leaders expressed profound appreciation for the Mill Reef Fund’s generosity, characterizing the donation as a transformative contribution that will generate tangible positive impact. They noted that this support enables them to address growing needs more effectively while continuing to serve as a vital resource for vulnerable community members.

  • Cannabis trafficking trial underway

    Cannabis trafficking trial underway

    The Supreme Court No. 5 witnessed the commencement of a significant drug trafficking trial on Wednesday, where Venice Keith McKenzie Stephen of Sealy Land, Government Hill, faces serious charges related to narcotics importation. A jury composition of seven women and two men, supplemented by three alternates, was sworn in to hear evidence in this high-profile case spanning events from July 2020.

    Stephen formally entered a plea of not guilty to all charges, which include possession, trafficking, and importation of 15.5 kilograms of cannabis. The prosecution, led by Senior State Counsel Kevin Forde, immediately established the legal framework of the case, citing Section 6.1 of the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act that prohibits possession of controlled substances.

    In his compelling opening statement, Forde articulated the prosecution’s two-pronged theory of possession, explaining: “The law recognizes both physical and mental elements of possession. Physical possession requires proof that the substance was either in the defendant’s direct custody or under his control. When an individual orders controlled drugs and directs shipment to his address, he effectively assumes possession upon delivery.”

    The prosecution’s narrative alleges that Stephen orchestrated the importation of narcotics into Barbados and took possession upon receipt. Forde promised jurors that the state would present compelling evidence demonstrating Stephen’s active role in receiving the controlled substances.

    According to the presented timeline, the case unfolded when a customs officer stationed at EHS Freightline Limited encountered Stephen at the facility. The defendant presented identification and provided his personal details before being shown a barrel consigned to him, though labeled under the name ‘Williams Phillips’ with a Canadian return address.

    Critical developments occurred when Stephen consented to open the barrel under customs supervision. The subsequent search revealed 40 separate packages containing cannabis, prompting immediate police involvement. Stephen was arrested at the scene and formally charged following investigation.

    The trial is scheduled to resume on Thursday before Justice Pamela Beckles, with the prosecution expected to call nine witnesses to substantiate their case. Defense counsel Sade Harris represents the accused throughout the proceedings.

  • Carolina Mejía Launches comprehensive renovation of Enriquillo Park

    Carolina Mejía Launches comprehensive renovation of Enriquillo Park

    Santo Domingo’s historic Enriquillo Park has undergone a comprehensive transformation following a RD$234 million renovation project inaugurated by National District Mayor Carolina Mejía. The revitalized public space in the Villa Francisca sector now features expanded recreational areas, a redesigned Paseo de los Lectores, a new Municipal Police station, and a modern service building equipped with multipurpose facilities and a medical clinic.

    During the inauguration ceremony, Mayor Mejía acknowledged President Luis Abinader’s support for the initiative, emphasizing that the project benefits both local residents and the thousands of daily commuters who pass through this major transportation hub. The park’s redesign includes specialized play areas for different age groups and aims to foster community integration beyond mere physical improvements.

    Architect Marcos Barinas, who led the project planning, explained that the renovation represents a holistic approach to urban renewal that prioritizes social cohesion alongside infrastructure upgrades. Originally inaugurated in 1930, the park occupies a strategic position in the city’s transit network, serving as a convergence point for multiple intercity terminals and urban bus routes.

    The Enriquillo Park restoration forms part of Mayor Mejía’s broader urban renewal program, which has already revitalized more than 210 parks and plazas throughout the capital. Officials emphasized that the project’s long-term success depends on community participation in maintaining the renewed space with proper respect and cleanliness.

  • Column: Harde realiteit

    Column: Harde realiteit

    Amid growing social media debates about national football team selection policies, columnist Mireille Hoepel has articulated a robust defense of opinion journalism’s role in stimulating meaningful public discourse. Hoepel emphasizes that columns inherently represent personal perspectives designed to provoke critical thinking rather than universal truths.

    The controversy centers on whether locally-trained footballers should receive preferential selection over foreign-developed players. Hoepel questions the logic of social media commentators who advocate for local players based on presumed rather than demonstrated capabilities, noting that multiple professional coaches—from Gorré to Menzo, Winter, and currently Ten Cate—have consistently identified quality deficiencies in domestically-developed talent.

    Historical exceptions like Emilio Limon and Sergio Aroepa demonstrate that exceptional local players have always earned selection through proven merit rather than geographical origin. Hoepel argues that current selection debates often overlook crucial performance details that determine match outcomes, prioritizing sentimental local preferences over objective quality assessments.

    The columnist expresses concern that national pride might prevent constructive learning from international expertise, emphasizing that professional scouts evaluate players based on demonstrated abilities rather than assumptions. Hoepel concludes that while diverse opinions enrich democratic discussion, social media frequently devolves into unproductive criticism rather than substantive solution-oriented dialogue.

  • Indomet warns of intensifying showers and rough seas

    Indomet warns of intensifying showers and rough seas

    Meteorological authorities in the Dominican Republic have issued significant weather advisories as a complex atmospheric system approaches the Caribbean nation. The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) has identified a developing trough system that will interact with prevailing east-northeast winds and local topography to generate substantial precipitation across multiple regions.

    According to senior meteorologist Heriberto Fabián, the precipitation pattern will commence with scattered morning showers primarily affecting Atlantic coastal areas. Meteorological models indicate a substantial intensification of rainfall activity following midday, potentially evolving into sustained periods of moderate to heavy downpours. The forecast includes probable thunderstorm development and isolated wind gusts that may exceed seasonal averages.

    The extensive list of provinces anticipated to experience these conditions encompasses La Altagracia, Samaná, María Trinidad Sánchez, San Pedro de Macorís, Hato Mayor, Monte Plata, La Vega, San Cristóbal, Santiago, Puerto Plata, Espaillat, La Romana, El Seibo, and the Greater Santo Domingo metropolitan area.

    Concurrent with terrestrial weather developments, maritime conditions are expected to deteriorate significantly along both Atlantic and Caribbean coastlines. Naval authorities have issued explicit recommendations for operators of small, fragile, and medium-sized vessels to remain in port due to anticipated strong winds and dangerously rough sea conditions. The public has been strongly urged to consult with official maritime agencies before initiating any water-based activities, with particular emphasis on recreational boaters and fishing enterprises.