The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated high-level discussions with the Saudi Fund for Development to advance the expansion and development of The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. These talks, led by MP Daryll Matthew, aim to outline the next phases of the campus’s transformation, which is central to the government’s vision of establishing it as a premier educational institution in the Eastern Caribbean. During the meeting, MP Matthew revealed the first architectural renderings of the proposed campus, describing it as a future landmark that will stand out as the most aesthetically impressive university in the region. The collaboration with the Saudi Fund underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and fostering academic excellence. This initiative is expected to significantly boost the local economy and provide enhanced opportunities for students across the Caribbean.
分类： society
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Motorcycle Driving School Coming Soon
In response to a surge in road fatalities, Belize’s Ministry of Transport has announced plans to establish a specialized motorcycle driving school. The initiative comes after a particularly deadly weekend, where four lives were lost and several others injured in separate traffic accidents. The ministry aims to address the alarming trend of reckless motorcycle driving, particularly among young riders, by providing comprehensive training on safe operation and adherence to road safety laws. Chester Williams, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Transport, expressed deep concern over the persistent disregard for safety measures despite graphic media coverage of accidents. He emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach, including legislative reforms, stricter enforcement, and targeted sensitization campaigns to foster a behavioral shift among the youth. The driving school, set to be operational by next year, will be managed by certified institutions that will also issue licenses to successful applicants. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to curbing road accidents and promoting safer driving practices.
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Agriculture ministry announces availability of subsidized citrus plants for sale
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy in Dominica has unveiled a new initiative aimed at bolstering citrus production across the island. The program is designed to assist commercial citrus growers in expanding or establishing their plantations, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the local citrus industry.
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Belize’s Bishop Philip Wright Elected Archbishop of the West Indies
In a historic achievement for Belize, Bishop Philip S. Wright has been elected as the Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies. This marks the second time a Belizean bishop has been chosen for this prestigious role since 1934. The announcement was made during the 42nd Provincial Synod held in the Bahamas. Bishop Wright, who has served as the leader of the Anglican Diocese of Belize for nearly two decades, described the moment as “overwhelming” and vowed to continue his service with humility and dedication.
In his address, Bishop Wright expressed his profound gratitude, stating, “You never imagined a day like this would come… It gives me an opportunity to serve the church I love, the church to which I have devoted the majority of my life.” His election has been widely celebrated, with Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition, extending her congratulations on behalf of the United Democratic Party and her family. She praised Bishop Wright’s “extraordinary leadership, spiritual depth, and unwavering devotion to the service of God’s people.”
As Archbishop-elect, Bishop Wright emphasized the importance of youth engagement and the church’s role in addressing regional issues during his speech at the synod. His elevation is seen as a significant milestone for both Belize and the Anglican community in the West Indies.
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Abel Prieto celebrates life, with loyalty to Revolution and Cuba
The president of Casa de las Américas has been widely celebrated for his exceptional leadership and dedication to cultural integration in Latin America and the Caribbean. Described as a tireless advocate for emancipation and a deeply educated individual, his contributions have left an indelible mark on the region. A profound scholar of the works of José Lezama Lima and Roberto Fernández Retamar, he has been a steadfast defender of the Cuban Revolution and the inclusive cultural policies championed by Fidel Castro. His ability to engage with intellectuals and artists without being bound by rigid protocols has earned him immense respect and affection from the public. This recognition extends globally, with creators and colleagues from Casa de las Américas expressing their admiration and congratulations. In a heartfelt gesture, members of the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) presented him with a remarkable artwork by Cuban visual artist Moisés Finalé, further underscoring his profound impact on the cultural landscape.
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Parts of Old Capital Still Without Electricity
Residents of Belize City experienced a significant power outage in the early hours of November 11, 2025, following a major transmission line fault. The disruption, which began around 12:30 a.m., was attributed to a damaged utility pole near the Westlake Substation at Mile 8 on the George Price Highway. Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) confirmed that adverse weather conditions further hindered repair efforts. Despite these challenges, BEL initiated immediate restoration work, successfully restoring power to several neighborhoods, including Belama (Phases 1, 2 & 4), Bella Vista, Buttonwood Bay, and Coral Grove by 2:31 a.m. However, as of the latest update, parts of Belize City remained without electricity, with BEL projecting full restoration by 12 noon, pending safe conditions to re-energize the transmission line. The outage also temporarily impacted eRide bus services across the city.
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‘OJ’ To Stand Trial For Rape Next Year
Attorney Orson ‘OJ’ Elrington is scheduled to stand trial in 2026 following allegations of rape dating back to January 2023. The trial is set to commence on February 23, 2026, and conclude on March 6, 2026. The accusations stem from an incident where a woman in her mid-20s reported meeting Elrington at a nightclub and subsequently visiting his home, where she claims the assault occurred. Former Commissioner of Police Chester Williams disclosed that the woman alleged she lost consciousness and awoke in a semi-nude state next to Elrington, with no recollection of the events. Elrington has consistently denied the allegations. He was formally charged with rape in March 2024 and released on $8,000 bail. Elrington is being defended by Senior Counsel Hubert Elrington and attorney Alifah Elrington.
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Historic OECS Student Census begins 11 November
In an unprecedented move, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is set to launch the first-ever region-wide Student Census on November 11, 2025. This groundbreaking initiative will allow students from kindergarten to Form 5 across the OECS to directly influence the future of education by sharing their authentic voices and experiences. The census aims to provide invaluable insights for governments, educators, and policymakers to create more inclusive, equitable, and student-centered learning environments. Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, emphasized the historical significance of this initiative, stating, ‘For the first time anywhere in the world, every student will take part in a single, region-wide Student Census. This is a true census, giving every child the chance to be heard.’ Sisera Simon, Head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, highlighted the transformative potential of the census, noting that it will capture accurate, up-to-date information on every student, enabling the development of policies that truly respond to their needs and aspirations. The census will be conducted anonymously and confidentially, ensuring that students can express themselves freely and safely. The data collected will inform the new 10-Year OECS Education Sector Strategy (2027–2037), anchoring it in the lived experiences of students. Parents, caregivers, and community members are encouraged to support the census by promoting student participation and spreading awareness. The OECS Student Census is a bold step toward building education systems that reflect the true realities of learners today, amplifying the voices of over 100,000 students across the region.
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Tobago Visual Arts Association elects new executive board
The Tobago Visual Arts Association (TVAA) has unveiled its newly elected executive board for the 2025-2027 term, following a pivotal election held at the historic Kimme Museum in Mt Irvine, Tobago. The election, conducted on October 5, underscores the association’s unwavering commitment to nurturing and promoting the visual arts and artists of Tobago. The newly appointed leadership includes Martin Superville as president, Arletys Arias Valdespino as vice president, Natasha Amber Shaw as secretary, Latoyaa Roberts-Thomas as assistant secretary, Duneski Lora Pileta as treasurer, Nicolas McKenna and Kemo De Leon as ordinary members, and Dr. James Armstrong as immediate past president. Martin Superville, a self-taught artist with over three decades of experience and the owner of an art gallery in Tobago, expressed his enthusiasm for his new role. ‘It is an honor to lead the Tobago Visual Arts Association during such a transformative period for our creative community,’ Superville remarked. ‘My goal is to fortify the connection between Tobago’s artists, our institutions, and the broader Caribbean art world. Together, we will continue to narrate our stories through color, movement, and imagination, celebrating Tobago’s unique spirit with every brushstroke.’ The TVAA extended its gratitude to the outgoing members and past leadership for their invaluable contributions to the local arts community. The new board has vowed to enhance creativity, collaboration, and opportunities for Tobago’s artists through exhibitions, educational initiatives, and advocacy for the visual arts sector. The association remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive artistic community that mirrors Tobago’s cultural richness and diversity. For more information, contact the TVAA via email at tobagovisualarts@gmail.com, call 771-5455 or 709-9988, or visit their Facebook page.
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Kamla bans fetes at Brian Lara Cricket Academy
In a decisive move to address the growing issue of noise pollution, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced on November 12 the immediate cessation of all fetes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba. The announcement, made via social media, highlighted the unbearable noise levels that have long plagued local residents. The Prime Minister emphasized that her government is committed to tackling this issue head-on, a promise made during her campaign. The Brian Lara Stadium has been a popular venue for major Carnival events such as Stink + Dutty, Out in South, and Prestige. Additionally, Persad-Bissessar revealed plans to introduce the Fireworks Legislation and enhanced noise pollution laws by the end of 2025. These new regulations will include designated quiet hours and stricter controls on fetes, music trucks, residential parties, and bars.