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The Family Court Division in Antigua and Barbuda, established to safeguard children and uphold parental responsibilities, is facing severe criticism for its systemic failures. Despite the Maintenance of and Access to Children Act, 2008, which mandates both parents to financially support their children, custodial parents are often left to bear the brunt of unmet obligations. The Act empowers the court to issue maintenance orders covering essential needs like food, clothing, schooling, and medical care. It also allows for enforcement mechanisms such as wage attachments, property levies, and even imprisonment for non-compliance. However, these measures are rarely enforced effectively. Maintenance payments are frequently delayed or entirely neglected, and warrants for non-payment are inconsistently issued. The absence of a modern tracking system exacerbates the issue, leaving parents in the dark about the status of their cases. These administrative shortcomings have dire consequences, with children often going without basic necessities and custodial parents sinking into debt. The Ministry of Legal Affairs, the Attorney General, and the Judicial Administration are urged to implement a digital case-tracking system, ensure automatic enforcement of warrants, and provide adequate training for court staff. Until these changes are made, the Family Court will continue to fail in its mission to protect the most vulnerable.

In a significant move to bolster agricultural sustainability, the Antiguan government, led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, has unveiled a new initiative to assist farmers in constructing free ponds and dams for rainwater storage. The announcement was made during a recent episode of the *Browne and Browne Show* on Pointe FM, where Browne emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing water access and mitigating the effects of drought.

Pursuing higher education has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. From earning my Associate’s degree to now working toward my Bachelor’s at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus, this journey has been both challenging and rewarding. My ultimate goal is to achieve a Master’s degree, a testament to my commitment to lifelong learning. UWI Global Campus, with its fully online model, has been instrumental in making this possible, offering flexibility that caters to working professionals like myself who juggle studies, careers, and family responsibilities. Beyond convenience, the program fosters regional unity, connecting students from across the Caribbean and emphasizing education as a tool for personal and collective growth. However, the path to academic success is not without its hurdles. The financial and time investments required are significant, and the lack of adequate support from instructors can be disheartening. This semester, I raised concerns about challenges I faced, only to be met with indifference. At the university level, constructive feedback and open dialogue should be standard, yet students often encounter hostility when seeking clarification or voicing questions. This culture of defensiveness undermines the very essence of education, which should be rooted in respect and collaboration. While UWI Global Campus excels in accessibility and diversity, it must also prioritize accountability and student well-being. As I continue my academic journey, I remain proud of my achievements but also advocate for a more supportive and respectful learning environment. Education has the power to transform lives and societies, but only when its principles are upheld in practice.