Barbadian youth aspiring to build careers in construction and automotive repair have received a significant boost with the introduction of over $4,000 in new scholarships. This initiative stems from two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed between the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and local industry leaders Nirvana Construction Inc. and Automotive Art. The agreements, formalized on Tuesday at SJPI’s Wildey campus, aim to provide targeted financial support to students enrolled in masonry and motor vehicle engineering programmes. Nirvana Construction has pledged a $500 scholarship for students from Parkinson Memorial Secondary School entering the Certificate in Masonry programme. Eligible applicants must be Barbadian citizens aged 16 to 18 and submit a recommendation from a school official or coach. Steven Hinds, Managing Director of Nirvana Construction and an SJPI alumnus, emphasized the company’s dedication to youth development and the skilled trades. “We are big on young people. Being in the construction industry, we decided that we need to advance our skilled artisans,” he stated. Meanwhile, Automotive Art will award ten $400 scholarships to continuing students in the Motor Vehicle Engineering Technology and Vehicle Body Repair programmes. Jamon White, General Manager of Automotive Art, described the initiative as a small yet impactful investment in the nation’s future workforce. SJPI Principal Ian Drakes expressed enthusiasm for the partnerships, highlighting their role in making technical and vocational education more accessible. “These are exciting times, and they continue with corporate Barbados entrusting us to keep our technical vocational education going in a very positive and dynamic way,” Drakes remarked. These scholarships align with broader national efforts to attract and qualify more young Barbadians in skilled trades, particularly in construction and auto care. For further details, interested individuals can visit www.sjpi.edu.bb or contact SJPI Guidance Officer Shawna Carter at 246-836-7687. Applications close on September 30.
分类： society
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Two injured in separate shooting incidents on St. Kitts and Nevis
In a concerning escalation of gun-related violence, two separate shooting incidents occurred on September 18, 2025, in St. Kitts and Nevis, leaving two men injured. Authorities have launched investigations into both cases, which add to a growing trend of ‘Shooting with Intent’ incidents across the Federation. The first incident took place in the Newcastle area of Nevis, near the Combermere Pre-School, where a man was shot and subsequently hospitalized. Shortly thereafter, a second shooting was reported in Halfway Tree, where another man suffered a gunshot wound to his hand. Police have not disclosed the identities of the victims. This year alone, 15 such incidents have been recorded, with 12 occurring on St. Kitts and three on Nevis. The rise in gun violence has raised alarms among local communities and law enforcement, prompting calls for increased measures to address the issue.
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Cuba honore un grand homme
Cuba bid a solemn farewell to one of its most dedicated revolutionaries, Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, in a state funeral held on Tuesday. The ceremony, marked by profound emotions and tributes, saw the attendance of Cuba’s highest leadership, including General Raúl Castro Ruz and President Miguel Díaz-Canel. The event took place at the Council of Ministers’ headquarters, where a small urn containing Cabrisas’ ashes was placed, surrounded by white floral wreaths. The first wreath was dedicated by General Raúl Castro, who had previously extended his heartfelt condolences to the family. Other floral tributes were presented on behalf of President Díaz-Canel, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, the Communist Party of Cuba, the National Assembly of People’s Power, the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, and the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment (Mincex). President Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Marrero Cruz expressed their sympathies to Cabrisas’ family, joined by other high-ranking officials, including Vice Prime Minister Ramiro Valdés Menéndez. Vice Prime Minister Inés María Chapman Waugh, visibly moved, praised Cabrisas as a “great man, a great fighter, and a great revolutionary,” emphasizing his unwavering dedication to solving the nation’s challenges. The first guard of honor was formed by President Díaz-Canel, National Assembly President Esteban Lazo, Prime Minister Marrero Cruz, and Roberto Morales Ojeda, Secretary of Organization of the Central Committee of the Party. The funeral underscored Cabrisas’ significant contributions to Cuba’s revolutionary legacy and his enduring impact on the nation.
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Student found hanging on Mississippi college campus
A tragic incident unfolded at Delta State University (DSU) in Cleveland, Mississippi, when a 21-year-old Black student, Demartravion “Trey” Reed, was found hanging from a tree on campus early Monday morning. The discovery, made by a faculty member near the university’s pickleball courts around 7 AM, prompted the immediate closure of classes and campus activities. Reed, a native of Grenada, Mississippi, was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving the campus community in shock and distress. Authorities, including Delta State Police Chief Michael Peeler, have stated that there is currently no evidence of foul play, but investigations are ongoing. The university’s president, Daniel Ennis, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, offering condolences to Reed’s family and arranging counseling services for affected students and staff. Amidst the tragedy, Reed’s family has called for transparency, urging the public to seek the truth and avoid letting the matter be overlooked. They have engaged attorney Vanessa J. Jones to independently investigate the circumstances surrounding Reed’s death. The case has drawn national attention, with the Jackson FBI indicating readiness to intervene if federal misconduct is identified. Meanwhile, the Bolivar County Coroner has ruled the death a suicide, but skepticism persists within the Black community, with organizations like the NAACP highlighting historical context and demanding thorough scrutiny. The incident has reignited conversations about racial justice and safety on college campuses.
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DCOA announces two new wellness events for Month of the Elderly
In a heartwarming initiative to celebrate the Month of the Elderly, the Dominica Council on Ageing (DCOA) has announced a diverse lineup of activities aimed at honoring and supporting senior citizens. The program, designed to promote health and wellbeing, features two major events: a Health Fair on September 20 and a Sports Day on September 28. These events are part of a broader effort to recognize the contributions of older adults and enhance their quality of life. The Health Fair will offer free health screenings, wellness workshops, and consultations with medical professionals, while the Sports Day will encourage physical activity through fun, age-appropriate games and competitions. The DCOA’s initiative underscores the importance of fostering a community that values and cares for its elderly population. With these events, Dominica continues to set an example in prioritizing the health and happiness of its senior citizens.
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Police report short-term spike in robberies, but overall trending down
The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has reported a recent surge in robberies across the Federation, particularly targeting supermarkets operated by the Chinese community. Despite this short-term increase, the overall crime rate, including robberies and larcenies, has shown a significant downward trend compared to the previous year. Since May, multiple supermarkets, such as the All in One Chinese Supermarket in Dieppe Bay and the Panda Chinese Supermarket in Upper Market Street, have been targeted, with some businesses experiencing repeated incidents. Police statistics reveal a 21 percent decrease in robberies year-over-year, even amidst the recent spike. Authorities are intensifying investigations to apprehend perpetrators and prevent further crimes. Deputy Commissioner Cromwell Henry highlighted that businesses adhering to recommended security measures have remained unscathed, while those neglecting protocols have suffered repeated attacks. Beyond robberies, larceny cases have also declined, with 29 reported incidents this year compared to 42 in 2024. The RSCNPF is actively combating cyber-related crimes and raising public awareness about online scams, which remain a significant concern. Enhanced community patrols and partnerships are part of ongoing efforts to maintain public safety. Residents are urged to take proactive steps to protect their properties and businesses.
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St Elizabeth man charged with burglary and larceny
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 30-year-old man from Rocky Hill, Santa Cruz, St Elizabeth, has been formally charged with burglary and larceny in connection with a series of break-ins in Coral Spring Village, Trelawny. The accused, Jermaine Findley, was charged on September 16 after being implicated in a burglary that occurred in the early hours of the morning.
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Charlie Kirk’s widow takes helm of Turning Point USA
In a poignant turn of events, Erika Kirk, the widow of the late right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, has been appointed as the new CEO and Chair of the Board of Turning Point USA, a prominent youth action campaign group. The announcement came just two days after Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on a university campus, allegedly by a 22-year-old gunman. Erika Kirk, addressing supporters, vowed that the movement her husband had passionately built would continue to thrive. ‘The movement my husband built will not die,’ she declared. The organization’s board confirmed her appointment in a unanimous decision, citing Charlie Kirk’s prior wishes that she lead in the event of his death. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through conservative circles, where Charlie Kirk was revered as a staunch advocate for free speech and Christian values. In a rare gesture of official mourning, former President Donald Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-staff, and Vice President JD Vance personally traveled to Utah to retrieve Kirk’s body. The shooting has also exacerbated societal divisions, with conservatives mobilizing to penalize those perceived as disrespectful of Kirk’s death. Reports have surfaced of individuals being dismissed from their jobs for making celebratory or mocking social media posts about the tragedy. Notably, late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel faced backlash and suspension of his show ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ after comments he made about the alleged shooter’s motives drew ire from conservatives. The federal government’s threat to revoke broadcast licenses from channels that did not condemn Kimmel further intensified the controversy.
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Fifteen-year-old boy charged with murder of 61-y-o farmer
In a tragic incident in Knowles Heights, Mandeville, Manchester, Jamaica, a 15-year-old boy has been formally charged with the murder of 61-year-old Roy Pearson, a local farmer. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 14, around 1:00 pm, when Pearson sustained severe injuries during a physical altercation with the teenager. Despite being rushed to the hospital and receiving medical treatment, Pearson tragically succumbed to his injuries. The young suspect was apprehended by the Mandeville police and officially charged on Wednesday. As of now, the court date for the case remains unannounced, leaving the community in shock and awaiting further developments.
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Rural school bus programme brings peace of mind for students, parents, teachers
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Government’s newly launched rural school bus initiative has been met with widespread approval from students, parents, and educators in Lawrence Tavern, St. Andrew. Described as a safe, reliable, and essential support for education, the program aims to address transportation challenges in rural areas while enhancing student safety and attendance.