Carib Scope

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  • Ministry of Education Reports Strong Success of PBM and SEL Training Sessions

    Ministry of Education Reports Strong Success of PBM and SEL Training Sessions

    Antigua and Barbuda’s public education system marked January 16, 2026, as a significant milestone in pedagogical advancement as educators nationwide participated in comprehensive training sessions focused on Positive Behaviour Management (PBM) and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). The initiative, designed to standardize and enhance behavioral management practices across all public schools, generated unprecedented enthusiasm among teachers, principals, attendance counselors, and support staff.

    The training curriculum centered around the PBM Teachers’ Manual and accompanying workbooks initially introduced two years ago, now refined through practical implementation experience. Educational facilitators reported exceptionally high levels of engagement, with participants actively contributing to discussions, collaborative workshops, and reflective exercises aimed at promoting best practices in student behavior management and socio-emotional development.

    Preliminary feedback from attendees indicated overwhelmingly positive responses to the training content and delivery methods. The Ministry of Education has committed to utilizing evaluation data gathered during these sessions to further refine program components, ensuring continued relevance and effectiveness in classroom applications.

    A team comprising Education Officers, school principals, and experienced teachers served as facilitators across twenty-five educational institutions nationwide. Despite initial apprehensions among first-time trainers, all demonstrators exhibited remarkable professionalism and adaptability throughout the sessions. Many facilitators expressed profound gratitude for contributing to the Ministry’s broader mission of creating safe, nurturing, and effectively managed learning environments.

    The Ministry of Education extended formal appreciation to all participating educational personnel and particularly acknowledged UNICEF for their sustained support of this critical program. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing PBM and SEL initiatives, emphasizing their vital role in fostering positive relationships, constructive interactions, and behaviors that support comprehensive student development.

  • VIDEO: Pleased with progress but prepped for next problem

    VIDEO: Pleased with progress but prepped for next problem

    In a protracted struggle spanning nearly two decades, Francisco Baptiste continues his unwavering pursuit for rightful compensation from the government after losing his property to state infrastructure development. The case traces back to the construction of the Lowmans Bay fuel depot, which resulted in the seizure of Baptiste’s residential property and agricultural assets including fruit trees that constituted his livelihood.

    Two years following initial media coverage, the situation remains unresolved despite the passage of time. Baptiste’s property, once a source of sustenance and income, was appropriated for what the government deemed essential national infrastructure. While the fuel depot has been operational for years, the promised compensation has failed to materialize through proper channels or adequate settlement offers.

    The case highlights persistent challenges in property rights enforcement and government accountability in development projects. Baptiste represents numerous citizens affected by infrastructure initiatives who face bureaucratic hurdles and institutional delays in seeking redress. His two-decade-long quest underscores systemic issues in balancing national development objectives with individual property protections.

    Those moved to support Baptiste’s cause may contact him directly at +1784-533-6445, though the number accepts only traditional voice calls rather than internet-based communication services.

  • Na jaren wachten: verpleegkundigen en leerkrachten krijgen grondpapieren

    Na jaren wachten: verpleegkundigen en leerkrachten krijgen grondpapieren

    After enduring prolonged periods of uncertainty, Surinamese nurses and teachers have finally received concrete assurances regarding housing security. On Monday, the Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB) distributed 410 land allocation documents, providing these essential professionals with prospects for homeownership and dignified living conditions.

    The allocation comprises 200 land parcels for nurses in Commewijne district and 210 for educators in Para region. President Jennifer Simons, present during the ceremonial distribution, emphasized citizens’ constitutional right to adequate housing according to the Suriname Communication Service. The head of state declared the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward careless or inequitable implementation of land distribution programs.

    Simons highlighted the recent reactivation of the National Housing Construction Fund in December, which received an initial deposit of SRD 20 million. Through coordination with the Minister of Finance and Planning, the administration plans to issue 800-1,000 mortgages from this fund within the year. This initiative enables citizens to construct homes through low-interest financing arrangements. The president urged beneficiaries to closely monitor fund-related updates and complete necessary documentation promptly.

    Collaboration with Minister Stephen Tsang of Public Works and Spatial Planning will ensure allocated lands become construction-ready with proper infrastructure access. GBB Minister Stanley Soeropawiro clarified that recipients need only register their parcels with the Management Institute for Land Registration and Land Information System (MI-GLIS). The minister articulated land’s fundamental role in human existence, stating: “One cannot build a life without land security,” while noting this stability enables active contribution to national development.

    Soeropawiro emphasized his ministry’s commitment to transparent and equitable land administration, with digitalization processes allowing online application tracking. The system directly identifies approved and pending allocations, preventing procedural irregularities. Priority allocation targets first-time land applicants, with the minister advising patience regarding pending requests while warning against unauthorized facilitation payments. Officials expect designated lands to be utilized strictly for their intended purposes.

    Parliamentarians Bronto Somohardjo (Chairman of the Permanent Committee on Land Affairs) and Silvana Afonsoewa attended the event. Afonsoewa has championed nursing staff housing projects in Jagtlust since 2017.

  • IHO Nature Rangers Hosts Community Consultations for Parham, Seatons & Glanvilles

    IHO Nature Rangers Hosts Community Consultations for Parham, Seatons & Glanvilles

    The IHO Nature Rangers have launched a series of community consultations targeting residents of Parham, Seatons, and Glanvilles in Antigua and Barbuda. Scheduled for January 26th and 28th, 2026, these gatherings form a crucial component of the comprehensive ‘Strengthening Conservation Actions in the North East Marine Management Area (NEMMA)’ initiative. This project aims to foster direct community involvement in conservation practices, litter reduction campaigns, and biodiversity protection measures.

    The consultation schedule is strategically organized across two key locations. The Parham session will convene at Parham Primary School on Monday, January 26th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Subsequently, the Seatons and Glanvilles community will gather at Glanvilles Community Center on Wednesday, January 28th, during identical evening hours. Both events will provide light refreshments for attendees.

    These consultations serve multiple purposes: educating residents about ongoing NEMMA conservation initiatives, outlining upcoming training opportunities, and developing collaborative strategies for litter prevention and community beautification. The program specifically encourages participation from all NEMMA community members, stakeholders, civil society organizations, and both public and private sector representatives.

    Project Manager Britney McDonald highlighted the significance of community engagement: ‘This initiative creates vital pathways for residents to influence our 2026 programming, including clean-up operations and litter prevention campaigns. We recognize the dynamic nature of these communities and aim to ensure our conservation efforts align with local priorities regarding biodiversity protection and community action.’

    The IHO Nature Rangers’ methodology emphasizes collaborative governance, enabling residents to contribute ideas, voice concerns, and actively participate in preserving their local ecological health. From habitat protection to waste reduction strategies, these consultations aim to ground conservation efforts in community-identified needs and aspirations. All generations are encouraged to participate and share their environmental perspectives.

    The project acknowledges the support of hosting venues Parham Primary School and Glanvilles Community Center. This initiative is implemented by IHO-Nature Rangers with funding from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and World Bank, supported by the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute and partner organization Integrated Health Outreach.

  • Missile-throwing incident results in man’s first conviction

    Missile-throwing incident results in man’s first conviction

    In a case highlighting neighborhood disputes turning violent, 27-year-old Kimron Lavia from Mt Bentick, Georgetown has entered a guilty plea for assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The Georgetown Magistrate’s Court heard how the November 4, 2025 altercation unfolded between neighbors.

    According to evidence presented by Police Constable 977 Fergus, the conflict originated when victim Dequano Joseph was cleaning his yard, an activity that apparently provoked Lavia and his brothers. The situation rapidly deteriorated into a verbal confrontation before turning physically violent.

    Court documents reveal Lavia first hurled a glass bottle toward Joseph, which missed its intended target but struck and damaged a nearby residence. Not dissuaded by the failed attempt, Lavia then picked up a stone and successfully struck Joseph, inflicting injuries to his left thigh.

    Defense attorney Grant Connell acknowledged the factual accuracy of the prosecution’s case while presenting mitigating circumstances. Connell asserted that Joseph had initially advanced toward the brothers brandishing a cutlass prior to the stone-throwing incident. The defense counsel characterized the injury as minor—merely a graze—and emphasized his client’s demonstrated remorse.

    Prosecutor Inspector of Police Corlene Samuel deferred to the court’s judgment regarding appropriate sentencing. Magistrate Kaywanna Jacobs delivered a multi-tiered verdict: Lavia must provide EC$300 in victim compensation by January 30 or face a three-month incarceration period. Additionally, he received a EC$200 fine due by February 13, with a two-month prison alternative for non-payment.

    The court further imposed a nine-month bond requirement, stipulating that any violation would result in an immediate EC$900 payment obligation or a four-month jail sentence. Police Constable 573 Young served as the primary investigator for the case.

  • Government to Deliver 53 New Homes Under HAPPI This Year

    Government to Deliver 53 New Homes Under HAPPI This Year

    The Antigua and Barbuda government is significantly scaling up its flagship housing initiative, with plans to deliver 53 new residences to vulnerable citizens within the year. Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced this expansion of the Home Advancement Programme for the Poor and Indigent (HAPPI) following a series of recent home handovers in communities including Swetes, Hatton, and Parham.

    The HAPPI program operates through a dual approach: constructing new housing units from the ground up and providing essential materials to renovate and repair existing substandard homes. In a major boost to this effort, the administration has procured building supplies valued at over EC$1 million, described by PM Browne as the largest single shipment of construction materials ever imported specifically for the program. This investment is earmarked for nationwide repair and upgrade projects.

    Emphasizing the equitable nature of the initiative, Social and Urban Transformation Minister Rawdon Turner stated that HAPPI assistance is allocated solely based on need and is strictly non-partisan. Assessment prioritizes households enduring the most precarious and hazardous living conditions.

    This housing expansion is a central component of the government’s broader social protection agenda. Officials confirm that the program’s overarching goals are to elevate living standards, enhance housing security, and foster stronger, more resilient communities throughout the twin-island nation.

  • Mrs Elaine LeBlanc of Penville is 101 today!

    Mrs Elaine LeBlanc of Penville is 101 today!

    The Commonwealth of Dominica witnesses an extraordinary milestone as Elaine LeBlanc, a remarkable resident born on January 20, 1925, celebrates her 101st birthday today. Hailing from the humble beginnings of Lower Penville, Mrs. LeBlanc’s life journey embodies resilience, faith, and familial devotion.

    As a widowed mother of eight children—seven sons and one daughter—LeBlanc dedicated her earlier years to nurturing her extensive family while maintaining an active community presence. Her weekly routine characteristically included Saturday market visits, diligent household management, and participation in church activities. Beyond her domestic responsibilities, she cultivated passions for social dancing and exploratory travel, demonstrating a vibrant engagement with life.

    A century of living has blessed Mrs. LeBlanc with an impressive five-generation familial legacy. Contemporary accounts from relatives describe her as remarkably spirited—maintaining physical mobility through regular walking, engaging in animated conversations, and cherishing social interactions with companions. She continues to captivate listeners with firsthand narratives spanning decades of Dominican history and personal experience.

    Dominica News Online extends heartfelt congratulations to this national treasure, whose life story reflects the cultural richness and enduring spirit of the Caribbean nation. Mrs. LeBlanc’s longevity serves as an inspirational testament to the vitality possible in advanced age when coupled with community connection and purposeful living.

  • Operation Altagracian 2026 begins with over 9,000 personnel deployed

    Operation Altagracian 2026 begins with over 9,000 personnel deployed

    The Dominican Republic has initiated Operation Altagracian 2026, a comprehensive security and emergency response deployment designed to safeguard millions of pilgrims during the annual festivities honoring Our Lady of Altagracia. The operation commenced on Tuesday and will continue through Wednesday, January 21st at 6:00 PM, mobilizing an impressive force of 9,121 personnel including emergency responders, volunteers, and institutional collaborators throughout the country’s eastern region.

    President Luis Abinader authorized the large-scale operation, which is being coordinated through the Emergency Operations Center (COE) in collaboration with multiple government agencies and the Government of La Altagracia province. The primary mission focuses on ensuring safe passage for citizens traveling to the Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of Altagracia in Higüey, the spiritual center of celebrations for the nation’s patron saint. Security and assistance coverage extends along all major routes from the Juan Carlos Bridge on Las Américas Avenue to the basilica itself.

    COE Director Juan Manuel Méndez García identified traffic accidents as the foremost concern during the religious gatherings and emphasized the importance of responsible behavior among travelers. The operational framework includes 113 ambulances, 153 first aid stations, and two fully equipped field hospitals operated by the Dominican Red Cross and Civil Defense. A sophisticated Mobile Command Center will coordinate with the Directorate of Out-of-Hospital Emergency Services (DAEH) to manage response efforts.

    The Ministry of Defense is providing aerial surveillance through helicopter support, while a specialized three-ring security perimeter will be established around the basilica complex. DIGESETT personnel will manage traffic flow and safety, with the Military and Police Commission of the Ministry of Public Works offering roadside assistance including mobile workshops and crane services. Authorities have reiterated warnings against driving under the influence of alcohol and urged compliance with official safety guidelines throughout the religious observances.

  • Palomino Dam reopens with new ecotourism route and camping rules

    Palomino Dam reopens with new ecotourism route and camping rules

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant move to balance tourism growth with environmental preservation, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will inaugurate a new ecotourism route at the Palomino Dam on January 21, 2026. This development within the José del Carmen Ramírez National Park responds to a five-year surge in hiking and nature-based tourism, prompting authorities to implement enhanced safety and conservation frameworks.

    The initiative, orchestrated by the Vice Ministry of Protected Areas and Biodiversity, follows a comprehensive evaluation and restructuring of access protocols to the protected zone. A pivotal component is a newly established overnight stay protocol, formally introduced to tour operators, local guides, and Ministry of Tourism officials during a virtual conference held on December 30.

    Under the stringent new regulations, prospective campers are required to seek authorization a minimum of 15 days prior to their visit via the Ministry’s dedicated digital platform. Each visiting group must appoint a designated leader and be accompanied by at least one certified local guide for every ten participants. Overnight capacity is strictly limited to 120 visitors. The regulations explicitly prohibit alcohol, tobacco, controlled substances, and single-use plastics, mandating a ‘pack-in, pack-out’ waste policy to ensure zero environmental footprint.

    An integral part of the rollout includes a specialized training program to certify local guides as Nature Interpreter Guides, a qualification that will eventually become compulsory for all guided visits. Future plans also entail the construction of permanent, eco-friendly overnight facilities to minimize ecological disruption and bolster sustainable local economic development. This new route replaces the previous access path to the Palomino Dam, which was closed in August 2025 as a preventive measure to safeguard both visitors and the region’s delicate ecosystem.

  • BADMC to review yam prices by April

    BADMC to review yam prices by April

    Barbados faces a significant setback in its campaign against soaring food prices following a major agricultural theft that forced authorities to delay a crucial price reduction initiative. The Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (BADMC) has revealed that the theft of approximately 10,000 pounds of yams from its St. John farmland has compromised plans to make the staple food more affordable for consumers.

    Dr. Claire Durant, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of BADMC, confirmed that the stolen produce, valued at nearly $70,000, was specifically cultivated as part of a strategic intervention to combat escalating market prices. Current retail rates for yams have reached concerning levels of $6-7 per pound, creating financial strain for many Barbadian households.

    The corporation had targeted a ambitious price reduction to approximately $2.50 per pound by 2026 through increased domestic production. However, the substantial theft has necessitated a recalibration of this timeline, with consumers now unlikely to see meaningful price relief before the conclusion of the year’s first quarter.

    This incident forms part of a disturbing pattern of praedial larceny across the island. Recent statistics indicate approximately 50,000 pounds of yams were stolen during the Christmas and New Year period alone, including a separate 20,000-pound theft from veteran farmer Richard Armstrong’s private holdings in St. John.

    Dr. Durant emphasized the disproportionate impact on smaller agricultural operators, noting that while the BADMC can absorb such losses, individual farmers face potentially catastrophic consequences from similar thefts.

    In response to the escalating crisis, the corporation has implemented enhanced security measures including increased police patrols and community vigilance initiatives. The BADMC has also introduced a numbered receipt book system to improve supply chain transparency, enabling better verification of produce legitimacy throughout the distribution network.

    Agriculture Minister Indar Weir has issued stern warnings to both vendors and consumers, emphasizing that stolen produce inevitably enters commercial channels and urging heightened due diligence across the sector. Meanwhile, the vending community, represented by the Barbados Association of Retailers, Vendors, and Entrepreneurs (BARVEN), has rejected suggestions of widespread complicity, maintaining that most vendors operate through legal sourcing channels.