Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Schools drug research freeze after IDB survey fallout blocks data

    Schools drug research freeze after IDB survey fallout blocks data

    A critical national effort to monitor drug use among Barbadian schoolchildren has remained suspended for over three years, Parliament learned this week. The standstill originated from a deeply controversial 2022 survey conducted by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), which has since created a climate of reluctance within the Ministry of Education toward approving any school-based research.

    This disclosure emerged during parliamentary debates on the 2026–27 Education Estimates. Attorney General Wilfred Abrahams, whose former ministerial portfolio included the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA), revealed the impasse has effectively barred the council from accessing schools to conduct vital research. Abrahams attributed the paralysis directly to the aftermath of the ‘highly publicised survey,’ which triggered national outrage and led to a comprehensive overhaul of research protocols.

    The contentious IDB survey, initially disguised as a computer science pre-test administered without parental knowledge, involved over 700 first-form students across five secondary schools. The nearly 300-question instrument probed sensitive topics including sexuality, gender identity, and substance abuse, alongside collecting personal information about the students’ parents. The revelation sparked intense public debate and prompted immediate calls for stricter oversight.

    Abrahams emphasized the severe operational impact on the NCSA, which traditionally relies on survey data to shape drug treatment policies and early warning systems for emerging substance trends. ‘They need to know from the children: are you using drugs, what drugs are you using? This is not to call out a child, but so we know what programmes can be specifically designed,’ he argued, cautioning that essential safeguards must not create bureaucratic paralysis.

    In response, Minister of Education Transformation Chad Blackman defended the newly established rigorous frameworks while acknowledging the indispensable value of reliable data for formulating effective interventions. Chief Education Officer Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw detailed the revised, multi-tiered approval process now governing all academic research. This includes a mandatory preliminary review by a newly formed committee of research experts within the ministry, followed by additional scrutiny from individual school principals.

    Dr. Archer-Bradshaw clarified that these stringent protocols were instituted precisely because the ministry could ‘no longer take for granted’ that researchers would act ethically. The process is further guided by compliance with the Data Protection Act, involving consultations with the Data Protection Commissioner and requiring parental consent in specific instances. While encouraging continued dialogue with the NCSA, she firmly maintained that ‘the protocols are there to be followed’ and cannot be overstepped, balancing child safety with the nation’s need for crucial public health data.

  • Students urged to stay alert to child labour signs despite no cases

    Students urged to stay alert to child labour signs despite no cases

    Barbadian authorities have initiated a comprehensive awareness campaign targeting student populations about the dangers of child exploitation, despite the nation’s absence of documented cases. The initiative, spearheaded by Acting Permanent Secretary Faye Prescod of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and the Third Sector, emphasizes preventive education as the cornerstone of child protection strategies.

    During a pivotal forum titled ‘Protect Our Children: Raise Your Voice Against Child Labour’ at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Prescod addressed students on the critical distinction between developmental chores and exploitative labor. “While assisting family members constitutes normal development, child labor represents a fundamental deprivation of childhood experiences,” Prescod articulated to attendees. “Globally, approximately 138 million children remain trapped in labor situations that deny them education, recreation, and the opportunity to pursue aspirations.”

    The ministry official delineated child labor as work that endangers minors’ physical or psychological welfare, interferes with educational pursuits, and essentially robs them of their childhood. Although Barbados maintains a clean record with no confirmed instances, Prescod noted the island’s geographical categorization within the Latin America and Caribbean region—areas where child labor persists more prominently—necessitates continued vigilance.

    A dedicated Child Labour Committee established in 2024, comprising representatives from law enforcement and religious organizations, conducts quarterly meetings and school sensitization programs. These efforts focus on equipping secondary students with the knowledge to identify potential exploitation and the confidence to report concerns to trusted adults.

    Prescod empowered young attendees as potential agents of change, stating: “Your awareness and advocacy constitute powerful tools for social protection. By recognizing inappropriate labor situations and voicing concerns, you contribute to safeguarding childhoods both locally and globally.”

  • Abinader opens international symposium on criminal investigation reform

    Abinader opens international symposium on criminal investigation reform

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a landmark initiative to transform law enforcement methodologies, Dominican President Luis Abinader inaugurated the First International Symposium on Criminal Investigation, Science and Innovation against Crime. The event, attended by over 400 national and international delegates, signals a paradigm shift toward evidence-based prosecution integrating advanced technology, intelligence gathering, and scientific rigor.

    President Abinader emphasized that sustainable public security hinges on closing impunity gaps through technical evidence and systematic investigative reforms. The symposium constitutes a critical component of the modernization agenda for the Central Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DICRIM), transitioning from traditional reactive policing to a proactive model built on data analytics, institutional interoperability, and operational transparency.

    Beyond superficial changes in equipment or uniforms, Abinader framed the reform as a profound institutional overhaul grounded in scientific principles and strategic management. A key outcome will be the adoption of a ten-point code of conduct for police investigations, to be formally endorsed by senior law enforcement leadership to guarantee nationwide compliance.

    Interior and Police Minister Faride Raful outlined priority challenges including organized crime, ethical artificial intelligence applications, and secure inter-agency data exchange. She highlighted existing successes through joint task forces, which have already contributed to reduced homicide rates and disruption of criminal networks.

    National Police Director Andres Modesto Cruz Cruz addressed the evolving nature of crime, noting its increasingly technological and cross-border characteristics. He advocated for a response strategy combining rigorous methodology with unwavering respect for human rights. This symposium forms part of the comprehensive reform of the National Police, aiming to establish an internationally aligned, professional, and scientifically-driven investigative culture focused on impunity reduction.

  • CAMAARD promotes “Barahona cradle of Larimar” campaign

    CAMAARD promotes “Barahona cradle of Larimar” campaign

    BARAHONA, Dominican Republic – A strategic rebranding initiative is underway in the southern Dominican province of Barahona, where business leaders and artisans are mobilizing to redefine the region’s global identity. The Chamber of Commerce and Handicraft Production Foundation (CAMAARD) is spearheading the “Barahona Cradle of Larimar” campaign, advocating for official recognition of the province’s exclusive claim to the rare blue pectolite gemstone.

    The movement, championed by master goldsmith Julio Humberto Fricá and formally endorsed by CAMAARD, proposes replacing the current regional slogan “Barahona, the Pearl of the South” with terminology that emphasizes the area’s unique geological heritage. Larimar, found exclusively in this Caribbean region, represents both a cultural treasure and economic asset that proponents believe deserves center stage in the province’s identity.

    CAMAARD President Valentín Guerrero confirmed the organization’s full institutional support, noting that formal proposals are being prepared for legislative consideration. “This strategic repositioning will enhance tourism appeal, strengthen cultural identity, and elevate larimar’s commercial status as a national symbol,” Guerrero stated.

    The campaign gains significant momentum following the World Intellectual Property Organization’s 2025 certification of “Of Barahona Origin” for larimar, which received international recognition across 18 countries. This designation provides legal protection and marketing advantages that advocates plan to leverage in building the country’s brand equity.

    Organizers are currently forming a specialized commission through CAMAARD and the SELECTA-RD exhibition platform, with Fricá playing a central role. The committee will engage government officials and legislators while circulating public registration forms to gather institutional and individual support for the landmark initiative.

  • Alertheid geboden bij cassaveziekte ‘heksenbezem’

    Alertheid geboden bij cassaveziekte ‘heksenbezem’

    Surinamese agricultural authorities have issued an urgent alert regarding the escalating threat of Cassava Witches’ Broom Disease (CWBD), a devastating fungal infection that jeopardizes both food security and economic stability in remote communities. Antoinette Djoeneri, Head of the Mycology/Bacteriology Department at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV), emphasizes that this crisis demands coordinated national and regional response efforts.

    The pathogen, which manifests through distinctive stunted growth and excessive branching in cassava plants, currently has no known effective fungicide treatment. Research initiatives across Brazil, French Guiana, and Colombia have similarly failed to develop chemical controls against this persistent fungus.

    CWBD’s impact extends beyond agricultural damage to threaten the livelihoods of processing communities that depend on cassava for chip production and bread-making. The districts of Brokopondo, Marowijne and Sipaliwini face particular vulnerability due to their geographical isolation and reliance on cassava as a dietary staple.

    Senior researcher Santusha Bhaggoe recommends immediate destruction of infected plants through controlled burning to prevent spore dissemination by insects. The practice of stacking contaminated plant material risks creating permanent infection reservoirs, as cuttings may resprout into diseased plants.

    First identified in August 2025, the disease has prompted collaborative intervention between LVV, the Ministry of Regional Development, and research institution CELOS. Their multi-faceted approach includes:
    – Distribution of educational materials and instructional videos
    – Training technical staff to guide farmers through containment protocols
    – Establishing reporting mechanisms through local agricultural offices
    – Promoting crop diversification strategies to ensure food security

    Authorities urge farmers to report suspected cases immediately to trained personnel who can provide guidance on containment measures and destruction techniques for infected crops.

  • Leisure : Did you know ?

    Leisure : Did you know ?

    In an innovative approach to national development, the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has captured global attention with its groundbreaking Gross National Happiness (GNH) framework. This small nation of approximately 800,000 people has pioneered an alternative development philosophy that challenges conventional economic metrics.

    The GNH concept, established in the 1970s under the leadership of Bhutan’s fourth king, represents a paradigm shift in how nations measure progress. Rather than focusing exclusively on economic indicators, this holistic approach prioritizes the comprehensive well-being of citizens through four foundational pillars: sustainable and equitable socio-economic development, cultural preservation and promotion, environmental conservation, and good governance.

    This revolutionary model actively shapes national policy decisions. Bhutan implements strict tourism controls to protect its cultural heritage and mandates maintaining at least 60% forest coverage nationwide. While quantifying happiness presents methodological challenges, the GNH framework offers a human-centered alternative to materialistic development models, emphasizing harmony between humanity, nature, and spirituality.

    The nation’s cultural fabric is deeply influenced by Vajrayana Buddhism, the state religion, while Dzongkha serves as the official language. Bhutan’s innovative approach to governance continues to inspire global discussions about alternative development models that prioritize qualitative well-being over quantitative economic growth.

    This educational content originates from Quiz.HaitiLibre’s ‘Did You Know?’ series, which features general knowledge articles exploring diverse global topics. The platform offers free, registration-free quizzes available in both French and English, with three difficulty levels catering to all audiences.

  • DPP Drops High‑Profile Rape Case Against OJ Elrington

    DPP Drops High‑Profile Rape Case Against OJ Elrington

    In a dramatic courtroom development, Belize’s Director of Public Prosecutions has terminated the high-profile rape case against prominent attorney Orson “OJ” Elrington mere hours before a critical filing deadline. The prosecution entered a nolle prosequi on March 3, 2026, effectively discontinuing the nearly two-year legal proceeding without resolution.

    The case unraveled not through evidentiary challenges but through a procedural impasse regarding courtroom transparency. Central to the collapse was the prosecution’s repeated failure to meet court-ordered deadlines for submitting a statement from the complainant regarding whether the trial should proceed behind closed doors or in public view.

    Justice Nigel Pilgrim had mandated that the DPP file a declaration from the complainant outlining her position on courtroom privacy by February 26th. When prosecutors missed this deadline, citing the complainant’s mental unpreparedness, the court granted an extension until 11 a.m. on March 3rd. With this final deadline expiring without the required documentation, the prosecution abruptly discontinued the case.

    Defense attorney Alifa Elrington, representing the accused, characterized the outcome as “bittersweet,” asserting that while the termination provides legal relief, it prevents full vindication through public airing of facts. She emphasized the irreversible damage to her client’s reputation after two years of intense media scrutiny and public speculation.

    The case’s conclusion also preempted a potentially landmark ruling from Justice Pilgrim regarding the balance between rape complainants’ privacy rights and the principle of open court proceedings. The defense successfully objected to the judge delivering his prepared decision as an academic exercise after the case’s termination.

    Legal experts anticipate that this procedural collapse may trigger legislative reviews regarding in-camera proceedings for sexual offense cases in Belize, particularly as neighboring jurisdictions like Jamaica and Trinidad maintain blanket policies for conducting victim testimony privately.

  • Cotton Tree Resident, Akeem Jones, Says Police Shot Him

    Cotton Tree Resident, Akeem Jones, Says Police Shot Him

    A Cotton Tree resident is demanding justice after alleging he was the victim of an unjustified police shooting followed by an attempted cover-up. Akeem Jones, 32, claims he was shot in the arm by an officer from behind while simply standing outside with his younger brother on March 3, 2026.

    Jones maintains he had no prior encounters with law enforcement and was not the intended target of any police operation. According to his account, officers were pursuing his brother when the incident occurred. The shooting resulted in an exit wound through his arm, with medical professionals advising a two-month recovery period that will prevent him from working.

    Most disturbingly, Jones alleges the officer immediately attempted to suppress the incident. He claims the shooter, identified only as ‘Chavez,’ begged him not to press charges and offered to dismiss pending cases against Jones’ brother in exchange for his silence—an offer Jones characterizes as blatant blackmail.

    ‘I would want court action,’ Jones stated in a recorded interview, expressing frustration about his inability to work and support himself. ‘I am a good citizen. I am not no criminal. Look up my file breda, you nuh wah find anything on me there.’

    The incident has raised serious concerns about police conduct and accountability in the community. Jones’ testimony reflects a growing distrust toward law enforcement, with him stating plainly: ‘We fraid fih police now. We cant run to them.’

    The Belize Police Department has not yet issued an official statement regarding these allegations. The case highlights ongoing tensions between citizens and police authorities in the region, with calls for transparent investigation into the shooting and the alleged attempted cover-up.

  • Chamber of Deputies approves National Alert System bill

    Chamber of Deputies approves National Alert System bill

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant move to enhance public safety, the Dominican Republic’s Chamber of Deputies has granted initial approval to legislation establishing a comprehensive legal framework for the prevention of disappearances and the management of imminent danger scenarios. The cornerstone of this initiative is the creation of a National Alert System, designated as ‘Alerta RD’.

    Spearheaded by legislators Liz Mieses and Carmen Ligia Barceló, the proposed bill is designed to facilitate the instantaneous and mass dissemination of information concerning missing individuals. This system is structured to mobilize a coordinated response across state agencies, media networks, and civil society organizations, significantly amplifying efforts in search, location, recovery, and protection operations. A primary focus of the framework is to extend heightened protection to vulnerable demographics.

    The scope of the legislation extends beyond individual missing persons cases. It meticulously outlines standardized protocols for the detection, communication, and management of alerts stemming from a wide array of crises. This includes natural disasters, public health emergencies, critical public safety threats, and major environmental incidents. The overarching objective is to institutionalize a cohesive and effective response mechanism among authorities, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of emergencies and safeguarding the lives and well-being of citizens through a reinforced early-warning and response infrastructure.

  • Ministry to replace ‘colonial’ inspectorate with new school quality system

    Ministry to replace ‘colonial’ inspectorate with new school quality system

    In a historic departure from a century-old oversight model, the national education system is undergoing a radical transformation. The Ministry of Education has officially terminated its post-colonial inspectorate regime, ushering in a new era with a collaboratively built Quality Assurance Framework. This modern system is designed to evaluate school performance through nationally defined metrics that emphasize development over punishment.

    Chief Education Officer Dr. Ramona Archer Bradshaw articulated the philosophical shift behind the reform, stating that the term ‘inspectorate’ is being retired to eradicate its colonial connotations. The new framework is founded on principles of co-creation and comprehensive systemic analysis. It aims to deliver a holistic evaluation of every function within the education sector, from classroom educators to senior administrative leadership.

    The development of this initiative is already in progress, incorporating a diverse cross-section of academic stakeholders. A significant collaborative exercise was recently conducted with education officers, master teachers, and peripatetic instructors to establish foundational indicators for ‘good teaching’ and ‘effective leadership.’

    A detailed implementation timetable has been laid out. The subsequent five months will be dedicated to continued stakeholder engagement to refine professional role definitions. A pilot cycle is scheduled for October 2026, where teams of officers and master teachers will deploy the new indicators in schools for real-time testing. Data gathered from this pilot will be analyzed to ensure the metrics are adaptable to various school contexts, with full implementation targeted for 2028.

    Dr. Archer Bradshaw emphasized the genuine nature of the co-creation process, describing it as a collective effort to reach a shared understanding of professional expectations. The reform also addresses a longstanding administrative conflict stemming from a past ‘regrading exercise’ that created a pay grade imbalance between some principals and their supervising education officers. To resolve this, the Ministry of the Public Service initiated a new regrading review two years ago. While its conclusions are pending, the education ministry has reaffirmed the legal authority of education officers under the Education Act, with the Chief Education Officer prepared to intervene in cases of non-compliance.

    Notably, reports of resistance from school leaders have diminished over the past two years as the focus has moved from criticism to supportive improvement. The ultimate objective of the new framework is to position master teachers and education officers as collaborative partners dedicated to enhancing educational environments for all students. With the pilot phase approaching, the ministry is calling for full engagement from educators to ensure the 2028 launch of a modern, home-grown, and cooperative standards-based system.