Carib Scope

分类： society

  • 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.’

  • Guyanese murder suspect dies after accidental shooting during TikTok livestream

    Guyanese murder suspect dies after accidental shooting during TikTok livestream

    In a shocking incident that unfolded during a live social media broadcast, 24-year-old Guyanese national Jamal Bourne—known by the alias “Skinny”—fatally shot himself accidentally while livestreaming on TikTok. The event occurred while Bourne, a wanted murder suspect, was broadcasting alongside another armed individual, both wearing balaclavas and brandishing firearms.

    During the livestream, Bourne appeared to be issuing threats to viewers while handling the weapon. The firearm unexpectedly discharged, striking him in the head. Hundreds of viewers witnessed the moment Bourne collapsed on camera before the broadcast ended abruptly.

    Local authorities confirmed Bourne was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Police have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the shooting, including how the firearms were obtained and the identity of the second armed individual visible in the video. The incident has raised significant concerns about illegal weapons circulation and the risks associated with live social media content.

  • Wanted Guyanese man accidentally shoots himself on livestream

    Wanted Guyanese man accidentally shoots himself on livestream

    In a shocking incident that underscores the dangers of social media recklessness, Jamal Bourne, a 24-year-old Guyanese man under investigation for homicide, fatally shot himself in the head during a live TikTok broadcast. The event occurred on Sunday evening while Bourne, who operated under the alias ‘Skinny,’ was streaming alongside another armed individual.

    According to reports from Times Caribbean, Bourne was visibly handling a firearm while wearing a ski mask and issuing threats to viewers during the broadcast. The live session took a tragic turn when the weapon accidentally discharged, resulting in immediate fatal injury. Numerous viewers witnessed the incident in real-time before the stream terminated abruptly following the gunshot.

    Guyanese law enforcement officials confirmed Bourne was a prime suspect in a recent murder case. During the livestream, he allegedly brandished the weapon aggressively while boasting about previous acts of violence. Police pronounced him dead shortly after the incident.

    Authorities are currently analyzing the digital footage and other electronic evidence as part of their investigation. The public has been strongly advised against sharing or viewing the disturbing video content to prevent further trauma and maintain the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

  • From shy beginnings to finding her voice: Bella Emmanuel thrives at Castries Comprehensive

    From shy beginnings to finding her voice: Bella Emmanuel thrives at Castries Comprehensive

    In 2024, Bella Emmanuel entered Castries Comprehensive Secondary School (CCSS) as a quiet, wheelchair-using student carrying both academic promise and physical challenges. Two years later, the 13-year-old has transformed into a confident, socially engaged scholar whose journey exemplifies how intentional inclusion policies can reshape educational experiences for students with disabilities.

    Bella first gained national recognition through her outstanding performance on the 2024 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA), achieving an overall score of 79 across core subjects. This accomplishment secured her placement at CCSS, where school administrators have implemented concrete measures to ensure physical accessibility doesn’t limit educational opportunities.

    The school’s infrastructure includes ramps and adaptive classroom arrangements. When Bella advanced to Form Two and encountered classrooms only accessible by stairs, administrators creatively reshuffled room assignments rather than restricting her subject options. “We rotate the classes to ensure students like Bella have access,” explained Vice Principal Anne Giffard Elcock. “A child is not banned from doing a subject because they have no access.”

    Beyond physical accommodations, Bella has flourished through extracurricular engagement, particularly in the school choir where she has discovered confidence and self-expression. Her musical pursuits have extended beyond campus to regional competitions and showcases. “I’m in Red Cross, arts club, a lot of clubs, but the one I enjoy most is the choir,” Bella shared.

    The school’s holistic approach includes approximately 25 students receiving additional support through special needs teachers and teaching assistants. According to Elcock, the program aims to “bridge learning gaps so students are not left behind” while focusing on “the holistic development of the child.”

    Transportation challenges persist, with Bella relying on compassionate assistance from classmates and teachers who ensure her safe commute. Students gently lift her onto buses while folding her wheelchair for storage, demonstrating a community-driven support system.

    Bella’s academic self-awareness remains sharp, as she acknowledges finding mathematics challenging while maintaining determination to improve. Socially, she has become “the life of the party” according to school staff, shedding earlier shyness to become fully integrated among peers.

    Her journey from apprehensive newcomer to confident participant illustrates how educational institutions can transform lives through committed inclusion practices that extend beyond mere infrastructure to encompass academic, social, and logistical support systems.

  • Government Looks to Toughen Laws on Neglected Buildings in St. John’s

    Government Looks to Toughen Laws on Neglected Buildings in St. John’s

    The Antiguan government is pursuing legislative reforms to combat urban blight in St. John’s, granting enhanced enforcement capabilities to regulatory bodies. Minister for Social and Urban Transformation Rawdon Turner unveiled proposed amendments targeting property owners who collect rent while permitting structures to deteriorate. The initiative addresses what Turner described as ‘eyesores’ throughout the capital—buildings exhibiting peeling paint, rotting roofs, and general disrepair despite active commercial use. The legislative changes would empower the Development Control Authority and St. John’s Development Corporation to impose escalating fines until properties meet established standards. Turner emphasized that the primary objective remains compliance rather than punishment, noting that both government and property owners share responsibility for urban revitalization. These measures constitute a critical component of broader urban renewal strategies aimed at enhancing safety, aesthetics, and quality of life in St. John’s. The minister clarified that many problematic properties are not abandoned but actively generate income for owners while contributing to urban decay.

  • PM Browne: Farm Equipment to Arrive Within 30–40 Days

    PM Browne: Farm Equipment to Arrive Within 30–40 Days

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced the imminent arrival of significant agricultural infrastructure investments, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne confirming new farming equipment will reach the islands within the next 30 to 40 days. This development represents a strategic advancement in the nation’s comprehensive plan to combat food insecurity through enhanced domestic production capabilities.

    The acquisition includes specialized equipment for two modernized abattoirs alongside heavy-duty machinery designed to support agricultural development. This machinery will facilitate critical farming operations including land clearing, construction of water retention systems such as ponds and dams, and substantial improvements to farm access roads. The government’s investment addresses fundamental infrastructure challenges that have historically constrained agricultural productivity.

    Prime Minister Browne emphasized that this initiative builds upon recent strategic investments in the agricultural sector. Upon arrival, the equipment will be immediately deployed to farming communities across the nation. The administration anticipates these resources will significantly boost local food production capacity while modernizing on-farm infrastructure, creating a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural system less vulnerable to external supply chain disruptions.

    This infrastructure modernization effort forms a cornerstone of the government’s broader food security strategy, aiming to reduce the nation’s reliance on imported food staples while stimulating rural economic development through enhanced agricultural productivity.

  • PHOTOS: Road improvement works continue across Villa, Buckley Line and Gunthropes

    PHOTOS: Road improvement works continue across Villa, Buckley Line and Gunthropes

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is witnessing significant advancements in its national infrastructure modernization initiative. According to an official release from the Ministry of Works, comprehensive road rehabilitation projects are currently underway across multiple key communities, marking a pivotal phase in the government’s broader improvement agenda.

  • Unleash Your Creativity And Let Your Art Inspire Peace

    Unleash Your Creativity And Let Your Art Inspire Peace

    The Rotary Club of Antigua has unveiled an ambitious international youth initiative titled ‘Let There Be Peace on Earth’ Poster Competition, inviting young artists worldwide to visually interpret global harmony through traditional artistic expression. This creatively structured contest features four distinct age divisions: 5-7 years, 8-10 years, 11-13 years, and 14-16 years, providing developmental appropriate platforms for diverse artistic capabilities.

    The competition timeline spans from September 21, 2025 through January 28, 2026, allowing participants ample creative development time. Each submission must embody hopeful and positive messaging centered around planetary peace concepts. A fundamental requirement mandates the explicit inclusion of the phrase ‘LET PEACE PREVAIL ON EARTH’ within all artwork compositions.

    Technical specifications require precisely 18”X24” dimensions on either Bristol Board or Manilla Paper substrates. Participants must employ entirely hand-rendered color techniques utilizing paints, watercolors, colored pencils, markers, or mixed media combinations. The organization emphatically prohibits digital printing, computer-aided design, or technological assistance, preserving the authenticity of manual artistic creation.

    All entries must represent original, solely created works without collaborative input. Submissions lacking the designated peace message or exhibiting digital manipulation will face immediate disqualification. Organizational guidelines require flat submission formats rather than rolled configurations.

    The winners announcement coincides symbolically with Rotary’s World Understanding and Peace Day on February 23, 2026, followed by prize distribution ceremonies on February 26, 2026. Category champions will receive comprehensive reward packages including monetary donations, exclusive ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’ commemorative buttons, desk-sized peace poles, and professional art supplies.

    This initiative represents Rotary International’s enduring commitment to global peace education through youth engagement and artistic expression, encouraging participants to channel creativity toward visualizing worldwide harmony.