During his recent visit to the Dominican Republic, Norihiro Nishikata, an education advisor with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), highlighted the urgent need to revamp the nation’s mathematics curriculum and teaching materials to elevate educational standards. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in educational initiatives across Central America, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, Nishikata observed that Dominican educators possess both motivation and capability. However, he stressed that they require access to pertinent resources and collaborative platforms to refine their teaching methodologies. Nishikata advocated for the production and distribution of textbooks tailored to local contexts, which he believes can foster greater accessibility and equity, often surpassing the efficacy of digital tools. ‘The Dominican Republic is endowed with robust human and economic resources. By aligning curriculum content and textbooks with students’ actual learning levels, academic outcomes—especially in mathematics—can be substantially enhanced,’ Nishikata remarked. This visit is a component of JICA’s broader initiative, ‘Strengthening the Capacity for Formulating and Implementing Educational Policies to Improve Learning,’ which is also active in El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia. The project aims to pinpoint technical deficiencies and offer customized educational assistance.
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Drew reaffirms Caribbean as ‘Zone of Peace’ amid US–Venezuela tensions
As tensions between the United States and Venezuela escalate, Caribbean leaders are calling for the region to remain a ‘Zone of Peace.’ Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis has emphasized the importance of maintaining regional stability amidst recent U.S. military strikes on Venezuelan vessels in the Caribbean. These strikes, which U.S. officials claim targeted drug-trafficking operations, have resulted in over 20 fatalities, raising concerns about potential destabilization in the region. Dr. Drew acknowledged the necessity of combating drug trafficking but stressed that such efforts should not compromise the Caribbean’s long-standing peace. ‘We want to maintain our region as a zone of peace,’ he stated during a press briefing. The situation has reignited broader concerns about U.S.-Venezuela relations, with Venezuela’s leader facing U.S. sanctions and an arrest warrant linked to alleged drug trafficking. CARICOM leaders, excluding Trinidad and Tobago, have collectively opposed the U.S. actions, warning of the risk of open conflict. Dr. Drew reiterated the region’s commitment to addressing the drug trade through cooperation rather than military confrontation, emphasizing the Caribbean’s vulnerability. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth defended the strikes as necessary measures to protect U.S. borders and interests.
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You NEED It, We BUILD It
In the bustling world of home improvement and custom furniture, Mr. Kevon Dennis stands out as a trusted craftsman dedicated to transforming living spaces. Specializing in a wide array of custom-built furniture, including kitchen cupboards, pantries, clothes closets, vanities, chest of drawers, and bed frames, Mr. Dennis ensures every piece is tailored to meet the unique needs of his clients. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, his workmanship promises a ‘Job Well Done every time.’ Clients can reach out to Mr. Dennis via phone at 1 869-764-4795 or through email at Kevvon7@icloud.com. His mission is simple yet profound: to deliver exceptional craftsmanship that exceeds expectations and enhances the functionality and beauty of every home.
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SPPS Class of 86/87 Reunion Gala
The SPPS Class of 86/87 is thrilled to announce their upcoming 50th-year reunion gala, a momentous occasion set to take place on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 12:00 PM. This highly anticipated event promises to be a grand celebration of camaraderie, nostalgia, and shared memories as classmates reunite to mark this significant milestone. The gala invites all members of the SPPS Class of 86/87 to come together and relive the vibrant spirit of their youth. Attendees will have the opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate their enduring bonds in a festive atmosphere. The event underscores the class’s motto: ‘Young, Vibrant & Driven,’ reflecting their collective energy and determination. Don’t miss this chance to join in the celebration of a lifetime!
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Trump administration enforces US$5,000 penalty for unauthorized entry
The U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic has confirmed the implementation of a stringent new immigration policy under President Donald Trump’s administration. Effective immediately, foreigners aged 14 and above who are apprehended for unauthorized entry into the United States will face a mandatory fee of $5,000. This charge, as outlined in an official statement posted on the embassy’s Instagram account (@embajadausaenrd), is non-negotiable, final, and not subject to appeal. Failure to comply with the payment will lead to further financial penalties. The policy is part of the Trump administration’s broader zero-tolerance strategy to curb irregular immigration by imposing stricter economic sanctions. It applies to all individuals deemed ‘inadmissible,’ including those entering without proper documentation, with expired visas, or through unauthorized border crossings. The measure underscores the administration’s commitment to deterring illegal immigration through punitive financial measures.
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Guns, phones, boat found but no arrest during large-scale marijuana eradication in Upper Berbice River
In a significant operation spanning from October 3 to 6, 2025, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) conducted a large-scale marijuana eradication exercise in the Upper Berbice River. Despite the seizure of two firearms, ammunition, two cellular phones, and a small wooden boat, no arrests were made. The operation targeted three marijuana cultivation sites, including a six-acre farm in the Ebini Savannahs, identified using a drone. Law enforcement destroyed four nursery beds containing approximately 5,000 cannabis seedlings, 64 pounds of dried cannabis, and three acres of mature marijuana plants. Notably, 30 pounds of cannabis were discovered in an abandoned church. The total street value of the confiscated marijuana was estimated at over GY$5 million. Additional items seized included a 12-gauge double-barrel shotgun, a chainsaw, and a cellular phone. At Wiruni, police searched two wooden houses, confiscating a .32 pistol, shotgun cartridges, two cellular phones, and two outboard engines. A makeshift camp, 90 pounds of cannabis, and 3,000 seedlings were also destroyed. All confiscated items were taken to the Kwakwani Police Station.
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Inposdom handles over 500,000 international shipments in first half of 2025
Santo Domingo – The Dominican Postal Institute (Inposdom) has reported significant milestones in the first half of 2025, processing over 500,000 international shipments, moving 2.75 million items, and handling more than 246 metric tons of goods. These achievements underscore Inposdom’s expanding role in the Dominican Republic’s e-commerce and export logistics sectors. The United States, Europe, and the Virgin Islands emerged as the primary destinations, with the U.S. accounting for the majority of shipments. Key exports included vehicle parts, artisanal products such as tobacco and beauty items, and electronic equipment, including cell phone components. Shipments to the U.S. alone surpassed 200,000 kilograms, reflecting a consistent upward trend in Dominican exports. Erick Guzmán, Director of Inposdom, revealed that the postal service now supports over 18,000 active users, with more than 45,000 citizens utilizing its services nationwide this year. Guzmán attributed this growth to the sector’s recovery and enhanced operational efficiency. To optimize underutilized postal facilities, Inposdom is partnering with public institutions to transform these spaces into multi-service centers. A notable collaboration with the Government Office of Information and Communication Technologies (OGTIC) has led to the establishment of GOB Points within postal offices, enabling citizens to access essential public services such as passport renewals and certificate issuance without additional rental costs.
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Barbados awaits verdict on mother-to-child HIV transmission
The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Barbados is currently awaiting a formal report from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) to confirm whether the country has successfully achieved the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV. Acting Permanent Secretary Wayne Webster, in a statement released on Tuesday, highlighted that the recent PAHO assessment was initiated at the ministry’s request to independently evaluate Barbados’ compliance with the operational standards necessary for validation. Webster emphasized that the PAHO team conducted a comprehensive review, including visits to healthcare facilities and laboratories, as well as an examination of data and surveillance systems supporting EMTCT efforts. While initial feedback has been highly positive, the ministry has refrained from specifying a timeline for the next steps until the formal report is received. Webster explained that the lengthy process reflects the need for sustained and deliberate progress in healthcare, given its critical impact on lives. If verified, Barbados would join 11 other Caribbean nations, including Belize, Jamaica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, in achieving this milestone. The EMTCT verification process also encompasses efforts to prevent the transmission of syphilis and hepatitis B from mother to child. A PAHO delegation recently completed a pre-assessment, visiting key health facilities such as the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and polyclinics to evaluate testing protocols, maternal care, and disease surveillance systems. Barbados is anticipated to receive official accreditation by the end of the year.
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Applications for visas, extensions of stay now possible Online- Home Affairs Ministry
The Ministry of Home Affairs in Guyana has unveiled its Digitised Immigration Support Services (ISS) platform, marking a significant leap in the modernization of public administration. As of Tuesday, October 7, 2025, individuals can now apply for various types of visas and extensions of stay online, with the option to pay through the ministry or Mobile Money Guyana (MMG). This initiative aims to streamline immigration processes, reduce wait times, and alleviate congestion at service counters, offering citizens the convenience of applying from the comfort of their homes or offices. Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond emphasized that the new system enhances accessibility to immigration services, ensuring faster processing and a more citizen-centric approach. While the online platform is now operational, the government has assured that walk-in applicants will continue to be accommodated, with dedicated systems and staff available to assist them. The platform, accessible via https://eservices.iss.gov.gy, supports applications for employment, business, student, and visitor visas, as well as extensions. Applicants can register online, upload necessary documents, and complete their applications seamlessly. Developed in collaboration with the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), the ISS eServices platform represents a milestone in Guyana’s digital transformation journey. Minister Walrond highlighted that the platform improves workflow efficiency, transparency, and user experience, aligning with the government’s broader commitment to building smarter, technology-driven public services. The launch underscores the government’s dedication to delivering efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly services, in line with Guyana’s digital transformation goals.
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Venezuelans kill countryman in Region 7 gold mining area- police
In a tragic incident in the Quartz Stone Backdam area of the Cuyuni River in Region 7, a Venezuelan gold miner was brutally killed by a group of his compatriots. The victim, identified as 35-year-old Yosber Alberto Sojo, was found dead on a main access trail on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, following a report to the police. Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident occurred on Monday, October 6, when Sojo was confronted by approximately 12 Venezuelan men who accused him of theft and subsequently assaulted him. The Guyanese police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, all of whom are reportedly Venezuelan nationals. Sojo’s body has been transported to Bartica for a post-mortem examination, though police have not disclosed whether there were visible signs of violence on the body. This incident highlights the volatile and often dangerous conditions in the gold mining regions, where disputes can escalate into fatal confrontations.