分类： society

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has unveiled an exciting lineup for the 44th National Schools’ Panorama, a cornerstone of the nation’s Independence celebrations. Sixteen schools are set to participate in this year’s event, showcasing their musical prowess and cultural heritage. The ABFC has expressed deep gratitude to its sponsors, including the Citizenship by Investment Unit, ACB Caribbean, and ICool, for their unwavering support in fostering youth development and cultural preservation. Hon. Daryll S. Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, ‘Investing in our youth and culture ensures the continuity of our traditions and prepares our young people for a brighter future.’ He also highlighted the significance of safe spaces like Pan Yards, where young individuals can flourish. Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, Chairperson of the ABFC, shared her enthusiasm for the growing participation, noting that the event has outgrown its previous venue and will now be held at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium. She welcomed new participants, including Bendals Primary, Irene B. Williams Secondary, and Sir Novelle Richards Academy, while last year’s champions, Greenbay Primary School and Antigua Grammar School, will return to defend their titles. The competition, scheduled for October 25, 2025, promises to be a vibrant celebration of creativity and musical talent, with tickets available at the gate for $25 (adults) and $10 (children 12 and up). The event invites families to support their schools and witness the spirit of ‘Solid – Stable – Soaring’ come alive through the steel pan.

The Board of Education unveiled the Eustace Hill STEM Scholarship during a heartfelt ceremony at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa, marking a pivotal step in fostering educational opportunities for Antiguan and Barbudan students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The scholarship, named in honor of the late Mr. Eustace Hill, a stalwart in the nation’s education system, aims to inspire and support the next generation of innovators and leaders. The inaugural recipient, Ms. Lakeea Allen, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Derby in the UK, expressed her gratitude via a pre-recorded video message. Her father, Mr. Alfredo Allen, accepted the award on her behalf, receiving a warm ovation from the audience. Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ms. Denise Gardiner, emphasized the scholarship’s broader significance, stating, ‘This initiative embodies vision, opportunity, and legacy, continuing Mr. Hill’s lifelong dedication to education.’ The event was attended by prominent figures, including the Honourable Daryll Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries, who reflected on Mr. Hill’s enduring influence and the scholarship’s role in shaping the nation’s future. The Hill family, present in full force, shared poignant memories of Mr. Hill, with his daughter Arica Hill describing him as a guiding compass. The launch underscores the Board of Education’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a hub of knowledge and technological advancement.

The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society (ABRCS) is commemorating its 84th anniversary, celebrating over eight decades of unwavering service, compassion, and resilience to the nation. Founded in 1940, the organization has become a cornerstone of humanitarian efforts, addressing crises ranging from natural disasters to pandemics and personal emergencies. In a heartfelt message marking this milestone, President Dr. J. Humphreys praised the volunteers as the backbone of the organization, describing them as ‘the first on the scene and the last to leave’ during times of crisis. He highlighted their dedication, sacrifice, and courage, which have profoundly impacted countless lives. Beyond emergency response, the ABRCS has expanded its initiatives to include youth training, health education, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience programs. These efforts, coupled with community outreach and mobile health services, have strengthened local capacity and ensured inclusivity. Dr. Humphreys emphasized the volunteers’ embodiment of Red Cross principles—kindness in action, courage in adversity, and selfless dedication. As the organization looks to the future, he expressed confidence in its ability to tackle growing humanitarian challenges with resilience, innovation, and humanity. The president also expressed gratitude for the members’ service and reaffirmed the ABRCS’s commitment to providing hope, comfort, and life-saving support to communities nationwide. ‘Let us move forward together, inspired by the difference we make and motivated by the lives we touch,’ he concluded. The ABRCS remains steadfast in its mission to alleviate suffering and promote health, safety, and dignity for all.