Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Education : Patriotic appeal to the Haitian scientific community in the diaspora

    Education : Patriotic appeal to the Haitian scientific community in the diaspora

    In a bold move to revitalize Haiti’s education system, Augustin Antoine, the Minister of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFP), has issued a heartfelt appeal to the Haitian scientific community abroad. The minister’s call seeks to transform the nation’s ‘brain drain’ into a ‘return of knowledge,’ fostering a renewed connection between Haitian researchers at home and those in the diaspora. This initiative aims to integrate research into Haiti’s public policies, economy, governance, and culture, ultimately building a ‘Haiti of knowledge.’

    Despite ongoing efforts, Haiti’s university system continues to grapple with significant challenges, including insufficient research, funding shortages, lack of scientific supervision, and outdated infrastructure. The recently established Public Universities in the Regions (UPRs) are particularly in need of technical support, mentorship, international partnerships, and sustainable resources to strengthen their operations and contribute to national development.

    Minister Antoine envisions the Haitian scientific diaspora playing a pivotal role in this transformation, not only as intellectual collaborators but also as strategic supporters of the National Education Fund (FNE), a cornerstone of the country’s public education policy. The Ministry plans to create a structured program of scientific and academic cooperation, enabling Haitian researchers abroad to contribute in three key areas: training teachers and school administrators, supporting the Departmental Directorates of Education (DDEs), and aiding the UPRs in research, innovation, and institutional development.

    This initiative represents more than just a resource-gathering effort; it is a call to unite the Haitian national community around a shared vision of knowledge, excellence, and progress. Minister Antoine’s appeal emphasizes the importance of reclaiming the identity of the Haitian scientific diaspora as the ‘voice, strength, and light’ of a resilient Haiti that continues to believe in its potential and refuses to surrender to adversity.

  • BUT lobbying for cleaner schools

    BUT lobbying for cleaner schools

    Julian Pierre, First Vice-President of the Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) and Chairman of its Occupational Safety and Health Committee, has reiterated the urgent need for a standardized industrial cleaning schedule across all public schools. This appeal follows the repeated closure of Deacons Primary School due to a persistent rodent infestation. Speaking to Barbados TODAY during the union’s Professional Development Workshop at Sky Mall, Pierre highlighted that Deacons Primary School was forced to shut down twice in one week—on Monday and again on Thursday—due to the ongoing issue. He also revealed that St Matthew’s Primary School faced similar challenges in recent weeks. Pierre emphasized that while industrial cleaning was conducted at Deacons Primary School, rodent droppings were still found in several areas, underscoring the need for thorough and consistent cleaning practices. He called on the Ministry of Educational Transformation to ensure that cleaning contractors adhere to stringent health and safety standards. Pierre acknowledged recent improvements in the management of the Education Technical Management Unit (ETMU), which has implemented rodent-proofing measures such as installing door sweeps and sealing gaps. However, he stressed the importance of establishing a formal maintenance schedule, particularly during school holidays, to prevent infestations and maintain healthy learning environments. Pierre noted that many older schools have not undergone deep cleaning in over a decade, with some never having received industrial cleaning at all. Despite these challenges, he commended the ETMU for its increased accountability and improved oversight of contractors. The Ministry of Education Transformation has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the latest closure of Deacons Primary School.

  • Couple found dead in car was beaten, strangled

    Couple found dead in car was beaten, strangled

    A tragic incident unfolded on Monday in the Fenton Mountains of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as the bodies of a young couple were discovered in a car. The victims, identified as Kamalo Glasgow, 24, and Cassique Richards, aged 25-26, were found beaten and strangled, marking the 33rd homicide in the country this year. The discovery coincided with the nation’s 46th anniversary of independence from Britain, casting a somber shadow over the celebrations. Kamalo’s parents, Dalwin and Gailene Glasgow, expressed their anguish, struggling to comprehend the violent death of their son. Kamalo, a security guard, had recently begun dating Richards. The couple was last seen together on Monday morning after Kamalo dropped off his mother. When he failed to return home by 9 a.m., his family grew increasingly concerned. Initial reports suggested gunfire as the cause of death, but police later confirmed no spent shells were found in the vehicle. Autopsy results revealed Kamalo died from strangulation and a blow to the head, while Richards bore severe beatings. The Glasgow family, devastated by the loss, faces an uncertain path forward as they seek justice for their son.

  • Verdachte van verduistering bij Suribet-shop betwist opgegeven bedrag

    Verdachte van verduistering bij Suribet-shop betwist opgegeven bedrag

    In a recent court hearing, the suspect, M.K., contested the alleged amount of money he is accused of embezzling. While M.K. claims the sum does not exceed SRD 50,000, the victim has asserted that the amount is ‘significantly larger.’ The case revolves around M.K.’s alleged unauthorized use of his workplace’s funds to play Suribet games on his phone between March and August of this year. Since the exact amount embezzled remains unclear, the Forensic Investigation Department has been tasked with analyzing the suspect’s phone for further evidence. The court has scheduled the next hearing for December 9, during which surveillance footage will also be reviewed. M.K. remains in custody pending further proceedings.

  • Rains persist across the Dominican Republic, especially in the South

    Rains persist across the Dominican Republic, especially in the South

    The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) has issued a weather update indicating that a pre-frontal trough located north of the island, coupled with moisture carried by east-southeast winds, will result in isolated, short-duration showers across parts of the Dominican Republic on Friday morning. As the day progresses, cloud cover is expected to intensify, leading to scattered showers, isolated thunderstorms, and potentially gusty winds in several provinces, including El Seibo, Hato Mayor, La Vega, San José de Ocoa, Azua, San Juan, Elías Piña, Santiago, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, and Puerto Plata. Overnight, the weather is predicted to remain partly cloudy.

    In response to the anticipated rainfall, weather alerts and warnings remain active in nine provinces due to the heightened risk of flooding, overflowing rivers and streams, and landslides in vulnerable areas. Nighttime temperatures are forecasted to range between 21°C and 23°C, while daytime temperatures will hover between 31°C and 33°C. In Greater Santo Domingo, encompassing the National District and Santo Domingo Norte, Este, and Oeste, skies will become increasingly overcast, accompanied by scattered showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate potential risks.

  • Man dies suddenly on highway morning walk

    Man dies suddenly on highway morning walk

    A 66-year-old man, Audwyn Marshall, tragically passed away during his routine morning walk along the Mighty Grynner Highway on Thursday. Marshall, a resident of Wilkinson Road, Lower Richmond Gap, St Michael, was discovered unresponsive near Stansfield Scott & Co. Ltd. at the southern end of the highway. His family believes he may have succumbed to a heart attack, a suspicion later confirmed by local authorities. The incident came to light when a passerby recognized Marshall and promptly alerted the police, who then informed his family. Shaddriese Marshall, his great niece, recounted how the police arrived at their home to deliver the devastating news. ‘A lady passing by noticed him and knew him,’ she shared. ‘My mom came down to identify the body.’ Marshall was remembered as a reserved individual who cherished moments with his family and led a quiet life. His sudden demise has left his loved ones in deep sorrow.

  • JCE presents new ID Card design featuring national symbols and tribute to Juan Pablo Duarte

    JCE presents new ID Card design featuring national symbols and tribute to Juan Pablo Duarte

    The Central Electoral Board (JCE) of the Dominican Republic, under the leadership of President Román Jáquez Liranzo, has introduced the official designs for the new Dominican Identity and Electoral Card. The unveiling took place during a presentation to the Duartian Institute and the Permanent Commission of Patriotic Ephemerides (CPEP), two institutions responsible for ensuring the proper use of national symbols. The updated card aims to modernize the document while strengthening national identity by incorporating significant historical, cultural, and environmental elements. Key features of the design include the national coat of arms, a portrait of founding father Juan Pablo Duarte, and the Monument to the Heroes of Restoration. Additionally, the cardholder’s image will be superimposed over Duarte’s chest, symbolizing the enduring connection between Dominican citizens and their homeland. The design also celebrates Dominican culture and biodiversity, featuring the güira and tambora—instruments central to Dominican music—and the palmchat, the national bird. This initiative transforms the ID card into a tribute to the nation’s rich heritage, blending history, culture, and nature. Both the Duartian Institute and CPEP have formally approved the designs, praising the JCE for its efforts to foster national pride and preserve the legacy of Juan Pablo Duarte through this innovative project.

  • Inside the Hangar Controversy: Who’s Trying to Privatize a Public Road?

    Inside the Hangar Controversy: Who’s Trying to Privatize a Public Road?

    In Belize City, a contentious debate has erupted over the future of the Hangar, a public road that some affluent seafront residents are attempting to privatize. On August 23, 2025, a group of homeowners in the Home Park area submitted an application to the Ministry of Natural Resources, seeking provisional approval to subdivide the Hangar and convert it into private property. The applicants, including prominent figures such as Louis Leslie, Henry C Fairweather, and JRD Holdings Limited, argued that the move was necessary to address safety concerns, prevent coastal erosion, and mitigate rising sea levels. However, the Ministry swiftly rejected the proposal, citing legal ownership issues, as the land in question belongs to the Government of Belize. This decision has sparked a broader discussion about public access to communal spaces and the influence of wealthy residents in shaping urban policy. Despite the rejection, the residents remain steadfast, issuing a press release to justify their actions and pledging to collaborate with the City Council and other stakeholders. The controversy raises critical questions about the balance between private interests and public welfare in Belize City.

  • Union Accuses BAHA of Breaking Labor Rules After Two Firings

    Union Accuses BAHA of Breaking Labor Rules After Two Firings

    The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) is under scrutiny following the dismissal of two employees, which has sparked allegations of labor rule violations. The Public Service Union (PSU) has accused BAHA of breaching its Collective Bargaining Agreement, citing a lack of due process in the terminations. One employee was let go in August, and another last week, raising concerns about fair treatment and adherence to established procedures. PSU President Dean Flowers emphasized that the disciplinary process, as outlined in the agreement and aligned with the Belize Constitution, was disregarded. Flowers stated that the employees were summarily dismissed without compensation, effectively nullifying their 15 years of service. The union plans to escalate the matter to the Labor Commissioner, who may refer the cases to the Labor Complaints Tribunal. If unsatisfied with the tribunal’s decision, the employees and the union reserve the right to pursue the case in the Supreme Court. This controversy highlights the tension between statutory bodies and labor protections, with potential implications for workplace justice in Belize.

  • Leap into Adventure at Mayflower Bocawina National Park

    Leap into Adventure at Mayflower Bocawina National Park

    Belize, a country renowned for its natural beauty, boasts an impressive 103 protected areas, ranging from dense forest reserves to marine parks and national treasures. Among these is the Mayflower Bocawina National Park, a 7,000-acre tropical rainforest located in the Stann Creek District. This park is not only a haven for biodiversity but also a site of significant historical importance, featuring ancient Mayan temples and artifacts. The park is co-managed by local community organizations with support from the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations (APAMO) and the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT), ensuring its preservation and sustainability. Visitors to the park can explore seven stunning waterfalls, with the Antelope Waterfall being the most popular due to its breathtaking views and natural swimming pool. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and toucans. Park rangers like Dolores Sho and Darren Budna emphasize the importance of conservation efforts to protect these natural resources for future generations. The park, established in 2001, also serves as a natural therapy space, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature. Despite its historical use as a logging site, the park now stands as a testament to Belize’s commitment to environmental preservation, with rangers vigilantly monitoring for illegal activities to ensure the park’s continued thriving ecosystem.