分类： society

The ongoing dispute over delayed teacher salaries in Belize continues to escalate, despite assurances from Education Minister Oscar Requena that the issue is being resolved. Earlier this month, the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) reported that numerous educators were still awaiting their pay, contradicting the Minister’s previous claims that the matter had been settled. Requena attributed the discrepancies to salary advances issued in December, a justification the union firmly rejects, stating they never consented to such terms. In a recent statement, Requena reiterated his stance, emphasizing that the Ministry of Education has been proactive in addressing the concerns. He acknowledged the delays but shifted partial blame to school managements, citing their failure to submit necessary information on time as a recurring issue. A meeting between the Ministry, the Treasury Department, and the BNTU executive was held to discuss the matter, with plans to improve communication and accountability moving forward. Despite these efforts, the union remains dissatisfied, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by teachers in receiving timely compensation.

Major Errol Robateau, a revered figure in the Salvation Army and a prolific author, has died at the age of 80. Born in Mullins River in 1945, Major Robateau devoted over 40 years of his life to serving communities across the Caribbean and Central America. His roles spanned from pastor and administrator to Regional Commander of the Salvation Army in Belize, a position he held twice. His leadership was particularly pivotal in 2004 when the organization grappled with significant financial and administrative difficulties. Major Robateau also chronicled the Salvation Army’s legacy in Belize through his book, ‘The Salvation Army Celebrates Seventy-Five Years of Service in Belize.’ Despite his many achievements, his life was not without trials. In 2018, he survived a harrowing home invasion in Hattieville, an incident that captured national attention. Major Robateau’s life was a testament to faith, resilience, and an unyielding dedication to his community. His passing marks the end of an era for the Salvation Army and the countless lives he touched.

Belize’s 2025 Children’s Parliament, held at the George Price Center in Belmopan, became a platform for young voices to address critical national issues. This year’s focal point was the proposed Adolescent Preventive Health Protection Bill, which seeks to grant adolescents aged fourteen and older independent access to preventive health services without requiring parental consent. The bill aims to empower youth and improve health outcomes by addressing systemic barriers that often prevent young people from accessing care.

Jasmine Cowo, a Youth Parliamentarian from Belize Rural Central, passionately supported the bill, highlighting the challenges faced by adolescents who are frequently turned away from clinics due to outdated health regulations. She emphasized the need for a modernized approach to healthcare access, especially in communities where parents or guardians are often unavailable.

Cameera Caliz, another Youth Parliamentarian, shared a personal experience underscoring the bill’s importance. She recounted a situation where she was unable to receive immediate medical care due to her age, despite being in urgent need. Caliz argued that the bill would provide adolescents with the autonomy to seek timely and confidential healthcare.

While the bill garnered significant support, it also faced opposition. Gustavo Mendez, a Youth Parliamentarian, expressed concerns about the lack of clear guidelines and support systems for adolescents exercising medical consent. He cautioned that good intentions alone do not ensure effective outcomes.

The session concluded with a majority vote in favor of the bill, sending it to the Senate for further deliberation. Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar-Panton praised the participants for their dedication and exemplary performance, reaffirming the importance of engaging young people in governance.

The event not only showcased the passion and insight of Belize’s future leaders but also highlighted the country’s commitment to fostering a politically aware and actively engaged generation.

Belize is preparing to launch its Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on November 25, 2025, amidst a troubling surge in domestic violence incidents. In the past twenty days alone, at least five lives have been lost to gender-based violence, casting a shadow over the recent Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Thea Garcia-Ramirez, Minister of Human Development, has emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing this crisis and ensuring the safety of women and children. Speaking at a press conference, Garcia-Ramirez outlined the campaign’s objectives and called for collective action across all sectors of society. She highlighted the multifaceted nature of gender-based violence, which extends beyond physical and sexual abuse to include financial, emotional, and verbal abuse. The government is also revising the existing Act Against Gender-Based Violence, with plans to engage civil society organizations, stakeholders, and the public in consultations. Garcia-Ramirez urged media outlets to amplify the campaign’s message and encouraged families and communities to recognize the warning signs of abuse. The revised draft of the act will be made available for public review after the sixteen-day campaign, marking a critical step toward legislative reform and societal change.

In a significant move to enhance road safety, Belize has announced new regulations requiring all motorcycle riders to complete a mandatory two-week training course. The initiative, set to take effect from January 1, 2026, will cost participants no more than $300. Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh emphasized that this measure is essential to equip riders with the necessary skills to navigate roads safely and reduce accident rates. The training will be conducted at ITVETs (Institutes of Technical and Vocational Education and Training) and other certified institutions. While the initial proposal suggested a six-week course, the government opted for a shorter duration to balance cost and accessibility. Dr. Zabaneh highlighted that this decision was made after thorough discussions within the cabinet, acknowledging the financial implications for riders. The new rule will apply to both existing license holders and new applicants, with a two-year grace period for compliance. This initiative aligns Belize with other jurisdictions that enforce similar safety measures, typically ranging from four to six weeks. The government aims to ensure that all motorcycle operators possess the requisite skills to handle their vehicles safely, ultimately fostering a safer transportation environment.

Alda Ramos, a name synonymous with resilience and determination, has once again proven that no dream is too big to achieve. In 2024, Ramos captured national attention when she graduated with a bachelor’s degree while working as a janitor at the University of Belize. Fast forward to 2025, and Ramos has added another milestone to her inspiring journey—earning a master’s degree from Galen University. Today, she serves as a Counselor for the Gender-Based Violence Response & Investigation Unit within the Belize Police Department, a role that reflects her unwavering commitment to helping others. Ramos’ story is a testament to the transformative power of education and self-belief. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial strain, health issues, and balancing family responsibilities, she persevered. Her journey began in her thirties when she returned to school to complete her high school education. By the age of forty, she had earned her bachelor’s degree, all while working as a janitor for nearly two decades. Ramos’ dedication to her studies and her community has made her a role model for many. Her story continues to inspire not only her colleagues but also the vulnerable individuals she serves. As Ramos reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people who believe in one’s potential. Her remarkable achievements remind us that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.