Carib Scope

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  • 35 training courses in agriculture in 2026 — Ratiram: 20,000 to participate

    35 training courses in agriculture in 2026 — Ratiram: 20,000 to participate

    The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries has unveiled an ambitious training program set to transform Trinidad and Tobago’s agricultural sector through comprehensive skills development. Minister Ravi Ratiram announced the initiative following the launch of a specialized artificial insemination training program on January 15th.

    The groundbreaking program will consolidate approximately 35 distinct training courses under a unified framework, marking a significant departure from the previous fragmented approach where various ministry divisions conducted separate training sessions. This consolidation will include regional administrative north and south operations along with extension training information services, all coordinated through a single umbrella program.

    Minister Ratiram revealed that the training curriculum encompasses diverse agricultural disciplines including advanced crop cultivation techniques, innovative hydroponics systems, greenhouse farming methodologies, climate-resilient agricultural practices, aquaculture development, and livestock enhancement programs. The courses will be accessible across all eight counties nationwide, with projections indicating participation from at least 20,000 individuals throughout 2026.

    The announcement coincided with the commencement of a two-day Artificial Insemination Technician training course, conducted in collaboration with the University of the West Indies at the School of Veterinary Medicine. This specialized program, funded by the Livestock and Livestock Products Board (LLPB), brought together 20 officers for intensive training in bovine artificial insemination techniques.

    Minister Ratiram emphasized the strategic importance of these initiatives, noting that enhanced livestock capacity directly addresses the nation’s substantial food import bill reduction goals. He stressed that livestock represents a primary protein source for the population, making capacity building in this sector crucial for meeting domestic demand.

    The ministry’s approach positions science and technology as central pillars of agricultural development, with participants being encouraged to view their training as both professional responsibility and national service. The program aims to bridge critical skills gaps in artificial insemination services while supporting improved service delivery, enhanced food security, and long-term self-sufficiency in the livestock industry.

  • PM to consider social media ban for children under 12

    PM to consider social media ban for children under 12

    Trinidad and Tobago’s government is evaluating potential restrictions on social media access for minors following serious concerns raised by religious leaders about digital addiction. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has indicated openness to legislation prohibiting children under 12 from social media platforms, while explicitly rejecting any ban for adults as an infringement on free speech.

    The development comes after Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon compared social media addiction to substance abuse, citing testimony from tech executives who admitted designing algorithms specifically to maximize user engagement and dependency. Gordon urged the government to follow Australia’s recent implementation of social media bans for citizens under 16.

    Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence Minister Dominic Smith acknowledged the legitimate concerns while advocating for a balanced approach. “The challenge before us is not to eliminate technology, but to govern it responsibly,” Smith stated, emphasizing stronger safeguards for children, clearer platform accountability, and enhanced digital literacy programs.

    The social media discussion occurs alongside broader government efforts to protect youth from addictive behaviors. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar recently announced plans to raise the legal age for alcohol and cannabis consumption to 21 and increase the gambling age to 25. These initiatives form part of a comprehensive strategy to combat early addiction patterns.

    Archbishop Gordon commended the government’s disciplinary measures, including increased traffic fines and age restriction proposals, viewing them as constructive steps toward national building and social responsibility.

    The Ministry of Public Administration and AI has already established committees addressing technology-related issues including deep fakes and online scams, indicating the government’s proactive approach to digital governance without stifling innovation or free expression.

  • Parent urged to register students for cashless transportation card before February 1

    Parent urged to register students for cashless transportation card before February 1

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican authorities have issued a critical deadline for parents to enroll their children in the national student transportation program as the country transitions to a fully cashless rural school bus system effective February 1, 2026. The government has confirmed that students without officially registered transportation cards will be denied bus access after the deadline.

    Energy, Transport and Telecommunications Minister Daryl Vaz emphasized the administrative shift during a post-Cabinet media briefing, revealing that bus operators will completely cease accepting cash payments. The initiative guarantees subsidized travel at a fixed rate of J$50 per journey, representing substantial savings compared to standard transportation costs ranging from J$300-600 daily.

    The program, which initially provided complimentary service since its September 2025 launch at the beginning of the academic year, now establishes a nominal fee structure while maintaining significant government subsidy. Minister Vaz highlighted the triple advantage of the electronic system: “It is both cost-effective for families, enhances safety protocols for student travelers, and improves operational convenience.”

    Government officials have directed citizens to access registration portals through the Jamaica Urban Transport Company (JUTC) or the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information digital platforms. The minister additionally issued a social appeal to parliamentary representatives, local councilors, religious organizations, and public agencies to assist economically vulnerable students in obtaining their transportation cards.

    Current operational data indicates robust system performance with 82 buses actively deployed across island-wide routes as of January 2026. The transport ministry reported consistent schedule adherence and uninterrupted service since implementation. Proactive measures include recruiting additional drivers to expand route coverage and preemptively address potential service gaps amid anticipated ridership increases.

  • First-time farm worker aiming to ‘rise and shine’

    First-time farm worker aiming to ‘rise and shine’

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A new chapter begins for 24-year-old Andre Hollinzed from Clarendon as he joins the first contingent of Jamaican workers departing for Canada under the longstanding Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP). The ambitious young farmer, speaking with JIS News during a farewell ceremony at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s Overseas Employment Centre, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to transform his family’s circumstances through international employment.

    Hollinzed credits his agricultural background and his mother’s encouragement as driving forces behind his application. ‘My mom is a farmer, my dad is a farmer, so we all grew up in a farming area,’ he shared. ‘She motivated me to get a farm-work ticket. Now that I got through, it’s my time to rise and shine.’

    The determined participant has prepared meticulously for the Canadian climate, packing ample warm clothing to combat the harsh winter conditions. Beyond physical preparation, Hollinzed carries a deeper motivation: rebuilding his family’s home and livelihood devastated by Hurricane Melissa, which destroyed crops, livestock, and their roof. With four younger brothers depending on him, his aspirations extend beyond immediate earnings to establishing a solid foundation for his family’s future.

    Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr. offered inspirational guidance to the first-time participant, emphasizing the program’s transformative potential. ‘This is not only an opportunity to earn money but to help you restart and rebuild,’ Minister Charles noted. He highlighted the program’s dual benefit as both a skills development initiative and a cultural exchange, urging Hollinzed to maintain exemplary conduct as a Jamaican ambassador.

    The SAWP, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, represents a significant bilateral agreement between Jamaica and Canada that enables temporary agricultural employment while providing Jamaican workers with lawful employment, income security, and exposure to international practices. The 182 workers departing on January 6-7 will spend eight months working on farms across Ontario, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland, contributing to greenhouse operations and fruit and vegetable cultivation while supporting their families back home.

  • 24 derelict JUTC buses razed

    24 derelict JUTC buses razed

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—A significant fire erupted at the Jamaica Urban Transit Company’s (JUTC) Rockfort maintenance depot in East Kingston on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in the complete destruction of two dozen decommissioned buses. The incident, which began shortly after 3:00 pm, prompted an immediate emergency response from multiple units of the Jamaica Fire Brigade.

    Emergency crews from the Rollington Town, York Park, and Trench Town fire stations deployed four fire engines to combat the rapidly spreading flames. By approximately 4:00 pm, firefighters had successfully contained the majority of the blaze and initiated cooling operations to prevent reignition. Preliminary investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire, though officials confirmed the destroyed buses had been out of service for over 15 years.

    Notably, the incident resulted in no injuries to personnel or damage to operational infrastructure. JUTC representatives initially declined immediate commentary but subsequently released an official statement confirming that the depot’s critical operations remained unaffected. The company emphasized that its active vehicle fleet, storage facilities, and essential operational equipment remained entirely untouched by the fire.

    The destruction of these aging vehicles represents a symbolic loss for Jamaica’s public transportation system, though without immediate impact on current transit services. The incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by public transport authorities in managing aging infrastructure and equipment disposal procedures.

  • Traffic flow changes expected as work ramps up on Naggo Head to Braeton road project

    Traffic flow changes expected as work ramps up on Naggo Head to Braeton road project

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Significant traffic modifications are imminent as Jamaica’s National Works Agency (NWA) accelerates its ambitious Naggo Head to Braeton roadway enhancement initiative in St Catherine. This critical infrastructure development, valued at approximately $2 billion, forms an integral component of the Government’s Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) programme aimed at urban transportation modernization.

    Stephen Shaw, Manager of Communications and Customer Relations at NWA, recently confirmed the project’s progression in discussions with JIS News. Construction activities are being substantially intensified along the three-kilometer corridor stretching from Naggo Head to the junction of Braeton and Hellshire Road, ultimately connecting to Greater Portmore. The NWA pledges to issue timely advisories to Portmore residents and commuters regarding impending traffic flow alterations, enabling necessary adjustments to travel schedules and routes.

    Upon completion, the transformed corridor will feature a modern four-lane configuration with raised medians, synchronized traffic signaling systems, and comprehensive safety enhancements including adequate sidewalks. The project incorporates sophisticated drainage solutions and water line installations alongside dedicated ducts for fiber-optic cables, aligning with Jamaica’s National Broadband Initiative for digital infrastructure expansion.

    The CAPEX programme represents a strategic infrastructure investment framework designed to stimulate short to medium-term economic growth through targeted urban transportation improvements. Six major projects currently fall under this initiative: Grange Lane widening (St Catherine); Braeton Road and Hellshire main road dualisation (St Catherine); Arthur Wint Drive widening (St Andrew); East Kings House Road and Lady Musgrave Road widening (St Andrew); Sandy Gully Bridge enhancement along Washington Boulevard (Kingston); and improved access to Portmore via Mandela Highway and Municipal Boulevard (St Catherine).

    Concurrently, the NWA anticipates concluding the Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project by March end, initiating a two-year defects liability period wherein contractors will address any construction-related issues. This multibillion-dollar infrastructure development spans St Andrew, St Thomas, and Portland parishes, incorporating comprehensive flood mitigation measures, roadway expansions, and safety feature installations.

  • Gandhi Seva Sangh Inc launches Season for Non-Violence

    Gandhi Seva Sangh Inc launches Season for Non-Violence

    In response to escalating crime rates and social fragmentation, Trinidad and Tobago will initiate a transformative 64-day Season for Non-Violence from January 31 to April 4. Organized by the Gandhi Seva Sangh Inc, this grassroots campaign invites citizens to engage in reflective practices and actionable steps toward peaceful conflict resolution.

    The initiative emerges as a strategic countermeasure to widespread interpersonal conflicts, anxiety, and community violence plaguing the nation. Developed originally by the MK Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence in collaboration with descendants of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the program redefines non-violence as an active discipline requiring courage and emotional intelligence rather than passive acceptance.

    Contrary to common misconceptions that equate non-violence with weakness, the program emphasizes its role as a practical toolkit for managing anger, healing trauma, and resolving disputes through measured responses. The organizers identify a critical societal gap: the lack of widespread knowledge about practicing non-violence under pressure.

    The daily social media-based campaign will disseminate principles including compassion, respect, forgiveness, and self-control—one for each day of the 64-day period. Participants are encouraged to not only consume this content but actively implement these values in personal interactions, workplaces, and communities.

    This initiative operates on the foundational belief that national development originates from individual transformation. By fostering emotional intelligence and ethical clarity at the personal level, the program aims to generate ripple effects across families, schools, and ultimately, the entire nation.

    Citizens can participate by following the Season for Nonviolence TT Facebook campaign, reflecting on daily principles, sharing content to amplify peaceful messaging, and practicing principles in daily life. Additional information is available through WhatsApp, email, or social media platforms.

  • Dr Nicole Solomon joins Children’s Life Fund board

    Dr Nicole Solomon joins Children’s Life Fund board

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s healthcare sector, Dr. Nicole Solomon, an accomplished consultant paediatric nephrologist at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, has been formally appointed to the board of management of the Children’s Life Fund Authority (CLFA). The appointment was officially confirmed through a press release issued by the authority on January 20.

    Dr. Solomon brings exceptional expertise in paediatric renal care, with specialized knowledge in dialysis and transplantation services for children. Her professional background includes playing a pivotal role in advancing paediatric renal transplantation capabilities within Trinidad and Tobago through her collaborative work with the Transplant Links Community (TLC), an international medical charity.

    Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Dr. Solomon serves as a lecturer in child health at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, further demonstrating her commitment to medical education and knowledge transfer.

    CLFA Chairman Dr. Kevon Dindial expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating: “Dr. Solomon’s distinguished career in paediatric nephrology and her profound dedication to improving children’s health outcomes perfectly align with CLFA’s mission and strategic vision. Her compassionate approach and clinical insights will be invaluable as we develop innovative, child-focused solutions for the communities we serve.”

    Echoing this sentiment, CLFA CEO Vernessar Cummings noted: “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Solomon to our board. Her extensive expertise and commitment to public service will significantly enhance our ability to make meaningful impacts across the communities under our care.”

    The current CLFA board composition includes Chairman Dr. Kevon Dindial alongside directors Matthew Allahar, Dianne Baker-Henry, Nabila Greene, Dr. Rajindra Parag, Afeisha Sampson, and Stephanie Toolsie.

  • Scotiabank Foundation helps transform school library

    Scotiabank Foundation helps transform school library

    In a significant boost to educational infrastructure, Aranguez Government Primary School has unveiled a comprehensively refurbished library facility just ahead of International Education Day (January 24). This transformative project, realized through a partnership with the Scotiabank Foundation’s Operation READ initiative (Read Everyday and Discover), represents a major advancement in promoting equitable access to education and lifelong learning opportunities.

    The revitalized library now functions as the central component of an extensive literacy program, featuring an innovative blend of traditional books and modern technological resources. Scotiabank’s substantial investment facilitated structural repairs, complete furniture replacement with new shelving systems, aesthetic enhancements, upgraded Wi-Fi infrastructure, improved climate control systems, and the acquisition of diverse reading materials, tablets, and printing equipment.

    Beyond financial support, Scotiabank employees demonstrated remarkable community engagement by volunteering their time for painting activities during initial phases and subsequently assisting NALIS officials with curating age-appropriate book collections through meticulous sorting processes.

    The transformed facility currently serves 188 students through weekly structured library sessions incorporating independent reading periods, collaborative read-aloud activities, group discussions, and story comprehension exercises. Additionally, the program includes specialized literacy intervention for 33 students experiencing reading difficulties and Parent Literacy Workshops designed to extend learning beyond classroom walls into family environments.

    Principal Nigel Clarke expressed profound appreciation for Scotiabank’s comprehensive support, noting that ‘Operation READ represents more than physical infrastructure improvement—it embodies our shared dedication to educational advancement and community development.’

    Gayle Pazos, Senior VP and Managing Director at Scotiabank, emphasized the institution’s commitment: ‘As we observe World Education Day, we reinforce our dedication to creating environments where curiosity flourishes and every student receives essential tools for success. Enhancing primary-level literacy constitutes a critical foundation for building confidence and achieving long-term educational outcomes.’

  • Enjoyable timeat Savannah

    Enjoyable timeat Savannah

    In a heartfelt letter to the editor published by Newsday, young professional Allison Chang has publicly commended the National Carnival Commission for creating accessible Carnival experiences through the John Cupid Carnival Village and Flava Food Village at Queen’s Park Savannah.

    Chang, representing many young working women with limited disposable income, described her initial hesitation about attending this year’s events due to online complaints about relocation. However, her decision to maintain the annual tradition with friends revealed what she characterized as ‘a refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable experience.’

    The free admission event demonstrated remarkable inclusivity, attracting diverse demographics from elders to youth in a genuinely family-friendly environment. Chang highlighted electrifying performances by prominent female soca artists including Destra, Patrice Roberts, and Nadia Batson, who delivered powerful sets to packed, energetic crowds.

    Beyond the musical entertainment, attendees engaged enthusiastically with Carnival characters for photographs while actively supporting local vendors. Chang reported multiple visits to the Flava Food Village, noting consistent enjoyment across all occasions.

    These complementary venues have successfully created an accessible gateway to Carnival culture within a familiar public space, effectively removing financial barriers that typically exclude budget-conscious individuals and families from full participation in Trinidad’s premier cultural celebration.

    The letter serves as both appreciation and validation for the National Carnival Commission’s efforts to democratize Carnival experiences amid economic challenges facing many citizens.