A prominent member of the Rotary Club of Barbados has called on policymakers to prioritize the needs of the country’s youngest and most vulnerable mothers as the government implements expanded parental leave and other initiatives to support working women. Arlene Ross, a former president of the club, emphasized that while the government’s efforts are commendable, more must be done to address the unique challenges faced by underage mothers, a group she described as often overlooked and stigmatized.
分类： society
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Police Probe Reported Break-In at Baptist Academy
Authorities are currently probing an alleged break-in at Baptist Academy School, which occurred late Wednesday night. The incident came to light after the school’s superintendent observed unusual activity on the premises and promptly alerted Police Headquarters. In response, a team from the Special Services Unit (SSU), alongside additional police units and constables, was swiftly deployed to the site. Upon conducting a comprehensive search of the school grounds, officers found no individuals of concern and no evidence of forced entry. Despite the absence of immediate threats, police have emphasized that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the validity of the report and to reinforce the school’s security measures. The incident has raised concerns among the local community, prompting calls for heightened vigilance and improved safety protocols in educational institutions.
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5 Televisions Stolen from Potters Primary School
Authorities are currently probing a burglary at Potters Primary School, where five televisions were reported stolen earlier this week. The incident is believed to have taken place between 4:30 p.m. on October 21 and 4:30 a.m. on October 22, 2025. School principal Ms. Athill alerted the Criminal Investigations Department (C.I.D) upon discovering the theft. Preliminary investigations reveal that unidentified intruders used a hard object to force open doors to multiple classrooms located on the western side of the school premises. The stolen televisions were then removed, and the suspects are thought to have exited through the same point of entry. Despite a thorough search of the surrounding area, the stolen items remain unrecovered. Police have interviewed several individuals but have yet to gather any significant leads. The Forensic Evidence and Recovery Unit (F.E.R.U) has been notified, and the investigation is ongoing.
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Officials remind that smoking in public remains illegal in St. Kitts and Nevis
In a recent public address, senior government and law enforcement officials in Saint Kitts and Nevis reiterated the strict prohibition of smoking in public spaces, emphasizing the legal consequences for violators. Under Section 3 of the Smoking (Designated Areas) Act, 2023, smoking outside designated areas is illegal, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. The law defines smoking broadly, encompassing cigarettes, cannabis, cigars, vaping, and other inhalation devices. During a recent episode of the radio and television program *InFocus*, members of the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention (NCDAP) highlighted the health risks posed by public smoking, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions. Travis Rogers, Chair of the NCDAP and Assistant Commissioner of Police, clarified that while cannabis use has been decriminalized, it remains illegal to smoke it in public. Violators face a $500 fine, 20 hours of community service, or up to five days in prison for non-compliance. Karimu Byron-Caines, Director of the NCDAP Secretariat, emphasized the importance of balancing individual rights with public health and safety. She urged citizens to visit www.cannabisclarityskn.com for detailed information on the law. The NCDAP, alongside government agencies and law enforcement, continues to educate the public as full enforcement of the law approaches.
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Education chief pushes new literacy strategy at BIBA Symposium
Barbados is embarking on a transformative journey to revive its once-celebrated literacy rate and establish centers of excellence across its educational system. Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, the island’s Chief Education Officer, unveiled these ambitious plans during the annual Global Business Week Secondary Schools Symposium, hosted by the Barbados International Business Association (BIBA) at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre. Addressing senior secondary school students, teachers, and Barbados Community College peers, Dr. Archer-Bradshaw expressed concern over the decline in literacy rates, which had previously stood at an impressive 98%. She highlighted alarming trends, noting that children at both primary and secondary levels are struggling with reading proficiency. ‘As a nation, we cannot afford to regress from our near-perfect literacy rate,’ she stated, emphasizing the urgency of reform. Central to the government’s strategy is a data-driven approach aimed at ensuring all students can read by age seven by December 2024. This initiative is part of a broader effort to align Barbados’ education system with global standards, preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market. Dr. Archer-Bradshaw referenced the Future of Jobs Report, which predicts that 65% of primary school students will work in roles that do not yet exist, underscoring the need for forward-thinking education. The Ministry of Education has already launched a pilot ‘Centres of Excellence’ program at the Maria Holder Gall Hill Early Childhood Development Centre, integrating STREAM (science, technology, reading, engineering, arts, and mathematics) through play-based learning. To support these efforts, Dr. Archer-Bradshaw called on the local business community to contribute through sponsorships, donations, and expertise. BIBA’s Executive Director, Carmel Haynes, echoed the importance of adaptability and resilience, urging students to embrace continuous learning and prepare for a global workforce. Haynes highlighted key growth areas, including financial literacy, innovation, and sustainable entrepreneurship, aligning with the symposium’s theme of resilience and transformation.
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Barbados Steps up push for inclusive education
Barbados is taking significant strides to create a more inclusive education and training system, with government officials vowing to dismantle barriers that hinder access for persons with disabilities. At the Caribbean Disability Conference, held from October 17 to 22 at the Wyndham Grand Barbados, Permanent Secretary Patrick McCaskie of the Ministry of Training and Tertiary Education emphasized that inclusive education is a fundamental human right and a global public good. He underscored the importance of ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their abilities, to contribute to national development. McCaskie highlighted key initiatives such as the National Policy for Improving the Lives of Persons with Disabilities (2023–2030) and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, which aim to guarantee equal access to education, employment, and public participation. Educational institutions like the Barbados Community College (BCC) are implementing tailored learning plans, assistive technologies, and peer tutoring to support students with disabilities. Additionally, the National Transformation Initiative (NTI) has enhanced its online platform to accommodate learners with dyslexia, autism, and other learning differences. Through a partnership with Coursera, over 100 international courses now focus on disability inclusion and accessibility design. With support from the Latin American Development Bank (CAF), Barbados is also upgrading infrastructure at key institutions, including the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and the Erdiston Teachers’ Training College, to improve accessibility. Shakir Daisley, second vice-president of the National Student Council, stressed the role of students in advocating for inclusion, noting ongoing challenges such as inadequate facilities and limited teacher training. Mark Franklin, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, called for actionable strategies to address systemic barriers, emphasizing the need for disability-friendly vehicles, better data collection, and inclusive classroom designs. Franklin urged collective action to build a Caribbean where inclusive education is a lived reality for all.
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Third man charged with murder of Anthony Callender
Kadeem Obrian Clarke, a 26-year-old general worker from Johnson Road, Workmans, St George, has been remanded to Dodds Prison following his appearance in the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court. Clarke faces serious charges, including the murder of Anthony Callender on January 23, as well as illegal possession of a firearm and nine rounds of ammunition without the necessary permits. Represented by attorney Shadia Simpson and Senior Counsel Angella Mitchell-Gittens, Clarke did not enter a plea during his hearing before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes on Thursday afternoon. The case has been adjourned until November 13, when it will be heard in the District ‘A’ Traffic Court. This incident adds to the ongoing investigation into the murder of Callender, a 27-year-old who was fatally shot in St Barnabas Heights, St Michael, earlier this year. Two other men have already been charged in connection with the same case.
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Benjamin Urges All Saints West Residents to Form Neighbourhood Watch Groups
In a proactive move to bolster community safety, National Security Minister and Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has urged residents of All Saints West to actively participate in crime prevention by establishing neighbourhood watch groups. Speaking at a town hall meeting held at the Sea View Farm Primary School on Thursday evening, Sir Steadroy emphasized the importance of fostering stronger communication within local communities to deter criminal activities. He encouraged residents to organize themselves into neighbourhood watch groups, utilize platforms like WhatsApp for coordination, and remain vigilant for unfamiliar individuals in their areas. ‘Call your neighbour, let them know someone strange is in the neighbourhood,’ he advised. Additionally, Sir Steadroy announced plans to install additional street lights in areas such as Bellevue to enhance visibility and security. He also revealed that the government would intensify police patrols in the constituency as part of its broader strategy to improve public safety. Highlighting the government’s commitment to youth development, the minister noted that the local MP has been actively identifying young individuals with potential for educational opportunities through initiatives like UWIFIC. Sir Steadroy’s address underscored the need for collaborative efforts among citizens, law enforcement, and government agencies to build safer and more resilient communities.
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Farmers urge unity as BAS warns of escalating farm theft threat
The Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS) has raised urgent concerns over a surge in crop and livestock theft, a crime historically referred to as praedial larceny. The BAS is urging retailers, hotels, and consumers to play a pivotal role in curbing what appears to be an organized wave of farm thefts that is severely impacting producers across the island. At a press conference on Thursday, BAS Chief Executive Officer James Paul emphasized that while recent judicial improvements are commendable, the public should not assume the issue has been resolved. He warned that a persistent mindset among some individuals views farmers’ produce as ‘fair game,’ enabling theft and resale of stolen goods. Paul criticized businesses and individuals who indirectly encourage theft by purchasing stolen produce without verifying its origin, stating that such buyers are complicit in the crime. He called for stricter enforcement and public cooperation, urging retailers, hotels, and restaurants to stop buying from unverified sources. Paul also directly appealed to those selling produce on highways, asking them to cease illegal activities. He praised the judiciary for imposing harsher sentences on offenders, emphasizing the need to send a strong message against theft. Paul concluded by challenging societal narratives that excuse such behavior, asserting that individuals can rise above such circumstances through hard work and integrity.
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Rotaract Club of Antigua “Drops of Change” Donates to National Public Library and Newfield Primary School
The Rotaract Club of Antigua has successfully concluded its impactful ‘Drops of Change’ initiative, a project aimed at enhancing access to clean drinking water, fostering sustainability, and engaging youth in community service. On September 11, 2025, the Club, alongside library staff and students from various institutions, unveiled a drinking water dispenser at the National Public Library. This initiative underscores the importance of hydration, particularly in the context of climate change and rising global temperatures. Community Service Director Kayah Ward emphasized the broader goals of the project, stating, ‘This dispenser symbolizes our dedication to healthier habits, reducing single-use plastics, and advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.’ The dispenser, now a fixture in the library’s lobby, was accompanied by twelve five-gallon water bottles, with the public encouraged to contribute additional bottles to sustain the effort. Additionally, the Club organized a Creative Writing Competition themed ‘Access to Clean Water,’ which saw enthusiastic participation from primary schools across Antigua. Winners, including Asia Joseph from Newfield Primary School, were recognized for their insightful submissions. The initiative highlights the Club’s commitment to community well-being, sustainability, and youth empowerment, while fostering collaboration with local institutions and corporate partners.