Despite the relentless downpour, the annual Tobago Blue Food Festival at the Bloody Bay Recreation Ground on October 19 was a resounding success, drawing hundreds of enthusiastic attendees. The festival, which celebrates the versatility of the root crop dasheen, offered a vibrant array of traditional blue food dishes, innovative creations like dasheen ice cream, and a bustling indigenous craft market. A highlight of the event was the interactive display by the Wildlife Association of Tobago, where visitors had the rare opportunity to interact with snakes, caimans, monkeys, and parrots, sparking delight and countless photo opportunities. The lively entertainment lineup featured Tobago’s October carnival Junior Calypso Monarch Koquice Davidson, alongside renowned soca artistes Shurwayne Winchester and Farmer Nappy, ensuring a festive atmosphere. Vendors and patrons alike remained undeterred by the weather, with smiles and umbrellas aplenty, making the event a testament to Tobago’s resilient spirit and rich cultural heritage.
分类： society
-
UWI law dean lauds students’ excellence: Integrity worth more than grades
The Faculty of Law at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine, celebrated a historic milestone on October 17, 2025, as it honored a record number of students for their exceptional academic achievements. The Evening of Excellence ceremony, held at the university, not only recognized academic success but also highlighted a transformative shift within the legal education community. Dean Dr. Alicia Elias-Roberts, addressing an audience of students, parents, and colleagues, praised the awardees as the most accomplished cohort in recent memory. She noted a significant increase in the number of students graduating with first-class honors, making the Dean’s Honor List, and receiving special awards for excellence. Statistics revealed that 18 first-year, 28 second-year, and 41 third-year students made the Dean’s List, while 38 law students graduated with first-class honors—a milestone Dr. Elias-Roberts described as evidence of a rising culture of excellence. In her speech, the dean emphasized the importance of resilience, integrity, and a commitment to justice, qualities she deemed essential in a rapidly evolving legal landscape shaped by artificial intelligence and innovation. She also highlighted the faculty’s growing partnerships with international organizations such as the UNDP, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the JB Fernandes Memorial Trust, which support initiatives like the Human Rights Legal Aid Clinic and internship opportunities in development financial law. These collaborations, she said, bridge academia and real-world impact, providing students with invaluable exposure and opportunities to serve communities. The ceremony also featured a personal message from Dr. Elias-Roberts, urging graduates to remain humble and grounded, emphasizing that integrity and professionalism define a person more than academic grades. The event honored numerous achievers, including Solange Joseph, Reshad Ahmed, Jehoshua Williams, and Kreshaun Gordon, who graduated with first-class honors and received special recognition from the Law Society executive. The dean concluded by reminding graduates that their LLB degrees carry a responsibility to lead, serve, and advocate for the marginalized, shaping the next generation of ethical and compassionate legal professionals. The ceremony, which included an address by Attorney General John Jeremie, celebrated not only academic success but also the broader mission of preparing lawyers to be stewards of justice in a changing world.
-
MOCA agent testifies in Ruel Reid and co trial
The fraud trial involving former Jamaican Education Minister Ruel Reid, ex-Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) President Fritz Pinnock, and three co-accused took a significant turn on Tuesday as detailed testimony regarding invoices worth hundreds of thousands of dollars was presented in court. The invoices, addressed to CMU, bore the name of Devon McQueen, Reid’s former driver, and were marked ‘For the provision of student needs.’ The amounts ranged from $30,000 to $330,000, dated between January and April 2018. The prosecution called two additional witnesses: a representative from the Office of the Registrar General and a chief special agent from the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA). The MOCA agent testified about her interactions with McQueen, who has since passed away, and her role in collecting his statement. The defense objected to her testimony, arguing it was based on hearsay and inadmissible evidence. Presiding Judge Sanchia Burrell overruled the objection, allowing the testimony to proceed. The trial, which alleges a $25 million fraud scheme involving government funds from the Ministry of Education and CMU between 2016 and 2019, will resume on Wednesday. Defense attorney Hugh Wildman is expected to present cases supporting his objection, with the prosecution responding before the judge makes a final ruling.
-
Karifuna Cultural Group statement claims misuse of name on Ti Vilaj Kreyol flyer
The Karifuna Cultural Group has voiced strong objections to the unauthorized use of its name in promotional materials for the Ti Vilaj Kreyol 2025 event, titled ‘Tout Biten Domnik.’ In a formal statement, the group revealed that their name was incorrectly listed on the event flyer, sparking significant distress. The error, first noticed on October 17, 2025, was promptly reported to the organizers, yet no corrective action was taken, exacerbating the situation. Established in 1978, the Karifuna Cultural Group is renowned for its dedication to preserving and promoting Kalinago traditions. The group emphasized that its reputation, built over decades of authentic cultural representation, has been compromised by this misrepresentation. They described the organizers’ inaction as ‘unprofessional and disrespectful,’ calling for an official apology and immediate rectification. Additionally, the group urged the event organizers to accurately identify the performers representing Kalinago heritage to prevent further damage to their credibility.
-
PM Mitchell: Heroes Park will become lasting symbol for national identity
In a historic ceremony marked by reflection and hope, Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell led the sod-turning event for the National Heroes and Heritage Park on October 20, 2025. Originally scheduled for October 19, the ceremony was postponed due to adverse weather conditions. Located near Camerhogne Park in Grand Anse, the park will not only serve as a tribute to Grenada’s national heroes but will also feature a commercial plaza, blending cultural significance with modern utility.
Prime Minister Mitchell emphasized the park’s role as a lasting symbol of national identity, honoring those who shaped Grenada’s history. “This park will stand as a testament to our resilience, offering a space for reflection, education, and inspiration for generations to come,” he stated during his address, which was broadcast live on social media and television.
The timing of the ceremony held particular significance, as October 19 marks a pivotal moment in Grenada’s history. On this day in 1983, the nation faced a tragic event that left deep scars on its collective psyche. Mitchell reflected on this history, acknowledging the pain while expressing hope for the future. “We honor the past, but we also look forward with unity and purpose, committed to building a just and resilient society,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted Grenada’s enduring spirit, noting that the nation’s history is one of overcoming adversity. “Our journey has taught us the power of courage, faith, and wisdom in the face of challenges,” he remarked. The park, he added, will serve as a beacon of remembrance and a source of strength for future generations.
As Grenada continues to mature as a democracy, Mitchell stressed the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and reconciliation in shaping the nation’s future. The National Heroes and Heritage Park is poised to become a cornerstone of Grenadian heritage, embodying the values of justice, dignity, and resilience.
-
SLUNCF and Republic Bank celebrate World Food Day with climate-smart agriculture showcase
On October 16, 2025, the Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund (SLUNCF) and Republic Bank (EC) Ltd. joined forces to commemorate World Food Day with an impactful Grantee Exchange event at Amb’s Harvest in La Croix Maingot. The gathering united students from Babonneau Secondary School with representatives from both organizations to delve into the role of climate-smart agriculture in bolstering food security and resilience in Saint Lucia. This event underscored the ongoing collaboration between Republic Bank and SLUNCF, which supports community-based organizations (CBOs) dedicated to sustainable agriculture, improved livelihoods, and climate resilience. A standout feature of the day was Amb’s Harvest’s Hydroponic Grow Bag System, an innovative approach that enhances year-round vegetable production while minimizing pesticide use. This system not only serves as an educational tool for students but also as a scalable model for small-scale farmers eager to adopt sustainable, technology-driven practices. Students engaged in hands-on demonstrations, gaining insights into how hydroponics can integrate into modern farming and support local food systems, including school feeding programs. The event also emphasized the importance of partnerships among the private sector, civil society, and educational institutions. Diana Joseph, SLUNCF’s program officer, highlighted the event’s role in fostering knowledge sharing, collaboration, and inspiration, while SLUNCF CEO Craig Henry praised Republic Bank’s leadership in supporting community-driven environmental solutions. The partnership, initiated in 2024, established the Republic Bank Sustainability Fund—Saint Lucia under the Bank’s Power to Make A Difference (PMAD) program. With a five-year commitment of $750,000, the fund supports projects aimed at enhancing food security, protecting biodiversity, and promoting nature-based solutions across the island.
-
Local event celebrating Nigerian Independence promises cultural display and camaraderie
The Nigerian community in Dominica is gearing up for a grand celebration to mark the 65th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence. Organized by the Nigeria Dominica Association (NDA), the event is set to take place on October 25th, 2025, at the Saint Alphonsus Parish Hall in Goodwill, Roseau, starting at 12:30 PM. This year’s theme, “Nigeria @65: A Nation Evolving Among a Comity of Nations,” reflects on Nigeria’s journey of resilience, progress, and unity, as well as its significant contributions to the global stage. The celebration will be attended by prominent figures, including Her Excellency, President Sylvanie Burton, and Hon. Dr. Vince Henderson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade, and Energy, highlighting the strong ties between the Nigerian community and Dominica. Attendees can expect a vibrant program featuring musical performances, cultural displays, and traditional Nigerian cuisine, including jollof rice and egusi soup, offering a true taste of Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage.
-
Man surrenders Nine (9) guns to the police in Dominica
Acting Police Chief Lincoln Corbette has announced a significant development in the fight against illegal firearms, revealing that an individual voluntarily surrendered nine firearms to a police officer. This act of compliance underscores the effectiveness of ‘Operation Clean Street,’ a joint initiative launched by the police and the Regional Security System (RSS) on September 29. The operation aims to eradicate illegal weapons from public spaces and enhance community safety. Chief Corbette emphasized that the voluntary surrender of these firearms reflects growing public cooperation in addressing the issue of unlicensed weapons. This milestone highlights the ongoing impact of the operation and signals a positive shift toward reducing the prevalence of illegal firearms in the region. The police and RSS remain committed to their mission, encouraging further public participation to ensure the success of this critical initiative.
-
BWA aims for better inter-utility communication around road repairs
The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) is intensifying its initiatives to bolster communication with partner utilities and expedite road reinstatements post-pipe repairs, according to Director of Engineering Charles Leslie. Speaking at a recent press conference, Leslie highlighted the development of specialized applications designed to streamline information sharing and coordination. ‘Over the past few months, we’ve collaborated closely with sister utilities and our ministry. We’ve implemented apps that enable us to pinpoint issues, document necessary actions, and ensure contractors are fully informed before commencing repairs,’ Leslie explained. These applications facilitate real-time data exchange with the National Petroleum Corporation and the Ministry of Public Works, ensuring seamless collaboration across agencies. Acting CEO Christopher Mapp addressed ongoing delays in road reinstatements, emphasizing a new strategy to mitigate the issue. ‘We’ve established a schedule of rates with contractors, assigning specific groups to handle temporary reinstatements. Once completed, the Ministry of Transport and Works engages contractors for permanent repairs,’ Mapp stated. This approach aims to minimize delays and reduce hazards associated with open roads. Hydrogeologist Jaime Paul provided insights into the BWA’s dye tracing project, which monitors underground water movement and identifies potential contaminants. ‘By injecting dye and deploying receptors at various locations, we can track water pathways and assess timeframes. This data is crucial for effective water resource management,’ Paul noted. The project also aids in detecting water loss through sinkholes, offering a clearer understanding of subterranean dynamics. Additionally, the BWA is upgrading its tanker fleet to address water shortages in high-demand areas. Leslie detailed the implementation of beacons on tankers to improve operational efficiency. ‘Beacons signal when tankers are deploying water and turn off during refills, allowing customers to anticipate service schedules,’ he explained. Customer feedback continues to play a pivotal role in optimizing water distribution, ensuring resources reach those in greatest need.
-
Police Search for Suspects in Mini Mart Robbery at Sea View Farm
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched a manhunt for two individuals suspected of robbing a Mini Mart in Sea View Farm. The incident occurred on the evening of October 20, 2025, at approximately 8:00 p.m. According to eyewitness reports, the perpetrators, both male, were clad in black attire with white stripes on their pants and wore white ski masks. They forcibly entered the establishment and made off with an undisclosed amount of cash, a mobile phone, and a lottery machine. Following the robbery, the suspects fled on foot in an easterly direction. Law enforcement officers swiftly responded to the scene and managed to recover the stolen mobile phone during their search. Authorities are now urging the public to come forward with any information that could lead to the identification or apprehension of the suspects. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913, the All Saints Police Station at 460-1000, or Crime Stoppers at 800-TIPS (8477). All tips will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.