Barbados is taking significant strides to create a more inclusive education and training system, with government officials vowing to dismantle barriers that hinder access for persons with disabilities. At the Caribbean Disability Conference, held from October 17 to 22 at the Wyndham Grand Barbados, Permanent Secretary Patrick McCaskie of the Ministry of Training and Tertiary Education emphasized that inclusive education is a fundamental human right and a global public good. He underscored the importance of ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their abilities, to contribute to national development. McCaskie highlighted key initiatives such as the National Policy for Improving the Lives of Persons with Disabilities (2023–2030) and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, which aim to guarantee equal access to education, employment, and public participation. Educational institutions like the Barbados Community College (BCC) are implementing tailored learning plans, assistive technologies, and peer tutoring to support students with disabilities. Additionally, the National Transformation Initiative (NTI) has enhanced its online platform to accommodate learners with dyslexia, autism, and other learning differences. Through a partnership with Coursera, over 100 international courses now focus on disability inclusion and accessibility design. With support from the Latin American Development Bank (CAF), Barbados is also upgrading infrastructure at key institutions, including the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and the Erdiston Teachers’ Training College, to improve accessibility. Shakir Daisley, second vice-president of the National Student Council, stressed the role of students in advocating for inclusion, noting ongoing challenges such as inadequate facilities and limited teacher training. Mark Franklin, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, called for actionable strategies to address systemic barriers, emphasizing the need for disability-friendly vehicles, better data collection, and inclusive classroom designs. Franklin urged collective action to build a Caribbean where inclusive education is a lived reality for all.
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Third man charged with murder of Anthony Callender
Kadeem Obrian Clarke, a 26-year-old general worker from Johnson Road, Workmans, St George, has been remanded to Dodds Prison following his appearance in the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court. Clarke faces serious charges, including the murder of Anthony Callender on January 23, as well as illegal possession of a firearm and nine rounds of ammunition without the necessary permits. Represented by attorney Shadia Simpson and Senior Counsel Angella Mitchell-Gittens, Clarke did not enter a plea during his hearing before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes on Thursday afternoon. The case has been adjourned until November 13, when it will be heard in the District ‘A’ Traffic Court. This incident adds to the ongoing investigation into the murder of Callender, a 27-year-old who was fatally shot in St Barnabas Heights, St Michael, earlier this year. Two other men have already been charged in connection with the same case.
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Chief Elections Officer voter confirmation numbers: ‘So far, so good”
Chief Elections Officer Anthea Joseph has announced that more than 2,000 individuals have applied for voter confirmation since the process began on October 15, 2025. Speaking during a recent statement, Joseph expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting that the process has been running smoothly. She anticipates an increase in applications as public awareness grows and individuals prepare their identification documents. Joseph emphasized the rigorous verification process in place to ensure the accuracy of voter information. Applicants are required to fill out forms, provide identification, and have their data entered into a system that undergoes a two-step verification process. This includes cross-checking the voter’s registration number, verifying details against submitted forms, and correcting any discrepancies. Joseph also highlighted that applicants can monitor their data entry in real-time at confirmation centers, ensuring accuracy before signing. The confirmation process is set to continue until October 15, 2026, with a possible three-month extension if needed. Joseph urged the public to dress appropriately for photo identification purposes and clarified that old passports, even if not expired, are invalid for the process. Confirmation centers operate from Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. A hotline (617-9595) has been established for further inquiries.
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Excitement builds as Dominica kicks off 25th World Creole Music Festival
The 25th World Creole Music Festival has officially begun in Dominica, marking a significant milestone for one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated cultural events. Held annually since 1997, the festival has become a cornerstone of Dominica’s cultural identity, blending Creole, soca, reggae, and bouyon rhythms into a vibrant showcase of the island’s musical heritage. This year’s silver jubilee theme, ‘Global Echoes of the Nature Island: Celebrating 25 Years of Creole Music, Magic, and Memories,’ underscores the festival’s role in uniting music lovers worldwide while amplifying Dominica’s cultural influence. Organizers emphasized the event’s ability to transcend entertainment, serving as a bridge that connects people through shared rhythms and traditions. The festival’s opening night promises a spectacular lineup, featuring renowned Caribbean artists such as Vybz Kartel and Spice, alongside a dedicated team of organizers, vendors, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to ensure a seamless experience. Beyond its cultural significance, the festival provides a vital economic boost to Dominica, particularly during the island’s slower independence season. Local businesses, artisans, and performers benefit from the influx of visitors and international attention. As the festival continues to grow, it solidifies Dominica’s position as a global hub for Creole culture and world-class entertainment.
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Joint work permit initiative by Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat, includes SKN; other OECS nations invited to join
Montserrat’s Premier, Reuben Meade, has urged the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to eliminate work permits entirely, emphasizing that this step is crucial for achieving genuine regional integration and facilitating the free movement of people within the subregion. Speaking at the 7th Ordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Trade on October 16 at the View Point Hotel in Montserrat, Meade highlighted the success of an existing arrangement between Montserrat, Antigua and Barbuda, and St. Kitts and Nevis, where work permit restrictions have already been abolished. He called for this model to be expanded across all OECS member states. Meade stressed that work permits, which hinder citizens from seeking employment in neighboring islands, are outdated and counterproductive to the vision of a unified Eastern Caribbean. He argued that removing these barriers would allow professionals, laborers, and workers of all skill levels to move and work freely, fostering economic growth and unity. The OECS, founded on principles of unity and shared prosperity, established the Eastern Caribbean Economic Union in 2010 under the revised Treaty of Basseterre, with free movement as a core tenet. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns about security and labor market impacts. Meade countered these concerns by advocating for streamlined immigration systems, including the use of identification cards instead of passports and indefinite entry stamps for OECS nationals. He urged fellow leaders to take concrete steps toward implementing this vision, emphasizing that true integration requires action, not just rhetoric. A dual citizen of St. Kitts-Nevis and Montserrat echoed this sentiment, criticizing leaders for failing to translate integration discussions into tangible outcomes.
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Benjamin Urges All Saints West Residents to Form Neighbourhood Watch Groups
In a proactive move to bolster community safety, National Security Minister and Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has urged residents of All Saints West to actively participate in crime prevention by establishing neighbourhood watch groups. Speaking at a town hall meeting held at the Sea View Farm Primary School on Thursday evening, Sir Steadroy emphasized the importance of fostering stronger communication within local communities to deter criminal activities. He encouraged residents to organize themselves into neighbourhood watch groups, utilize platforms like WhatsApp for coordination, and remain vigilant for unfamiliar individuals in their areas. ‘Call your neighbour, let them know someone strange is in the neighbourhood,’ he advised. Additionally, Sir Steadroy announced plans to install additional street lights in areas such as Bellevue to enhance visibility and security. He also revealed that the government would intensify police patrols in the constituency as part of its broader strategy to improve public safety. Highlighting the government’s commitment to youth development, the minister noted that the local MP has been actively identifying young individuals with potential for educational opportunities through initiatives like UWIFIC. Sir Steadroy’s address underscored the need for collaborative efforts among citizens, law enforcement, and government agencies to build safer and more resilient communities.
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Robert De Niro’s Nobu-Branded Private Residences in Barbuda Are Officially on the Market
Renowned Hollywood actor Robert De Niro has officially listed his luxury Nobu-branded private residences in Barbuda for sale. The properties, which are part of the prestigious Nobu brand co-founded by De Niro, offer unparalleled exclusivity and sophistication. Located on the pristine Caribbean island of Barbuda, these residences are designed to blend seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty while providing world-class amenities. The development is a collaboration between De Niro, celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and entrepreneur Meir Teper, who have successfully expanded the Nobu brand into the hospitality and real estate sectors. The sale of these properties marks a significant moment in the luxury real estate market, attracting attention from high-net-worth individuals seeking unique investment opportunities. The residences are expected to fetch premium prices, given their association with the globally recognized Nobu brand and their idyllic location. This move also highlights the growing trend of celebrity-backed real estate ventures, which continue to shape the high-end property market.
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St. Lucia, Dominica PMs endorse Gonsalves for 6th term
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica and Prime Minister Phillip Pierre of St. Lucia have publicly endorsed Ralph Gonsalves for a sixth consecutive term as Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). The leaders, who share the Labour Party affiliation with Gonsalves, praised his leadership during a joint press conference in Kingstown on Wednesday. Skerrit highlighted Gonsalves’ exceptional contributions to SVG’s development over his 22-year tenure, calling him the most suitable candidate to lead the nation for the next five years. Despite differing views on citizenship by investment programs and diplomatic ties—St. Lucia maintains relations with Taiwan, while Dominica aligns with China—both leaders emphasized Gonsalves’ transformative impact on SVG’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare sectors. Skerrit also urged young voters to participate in the upcoming elections, stressing the importance of continuity in leadership. Gonsalves, 79, has faced criticism for his prolonged tenure, with some advocating for term limits. However, his supporters argue that his experience and vision are indispensable for navigating global challenges. The leaders also toured major projects, including a new hospital and port, symbolizing SVG’s progress under Gonsalves’ administration.
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Farmers urge unity as BAS warns of escalating farm theft threat
The Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS) has raised urgent concerns over a surge in crop and livestock theft, a crime historically referred to as praedial larceny. The BAS is urging retailers, hotels, and consumers to play a pivotal role in curbing what appears to be an organized wave of farm thefts that is severely impacting producers across the island. At a press conference on Thursday, BAS Chief Executive Officer James Paul emphasized that while recent judicial improvements are commendable, the public should not assume the issue has been resolved. He warned that a persistent mindset among some individuals views farmers’ produce as ‘fair game,’ enabling theft and resale of stolen goods. Paul criticized businesses and individuals who indirectly encourage theft by purchasing stolen produce without verifying its origin, stating that such buyers are complicit in the crime. He called for stricter enforcement and public cooperation, urging retailers, hotels, and restaurants to stop buying from unverified sources. Paul also directly appealed to those selling produce on highways, asking them to cease illegal activities. He praised the judiciary for imposing harsher sentences on offenders, emphasizing the need to send a strong message against theft. Paul concluded by challenging societal narratives that excuse such behavior, asserting that individuals can rise above such circumstances through hard work and integrity.
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Rotaract Club of Antigua “Drops of Change” Donates to National Public Library and Newfield Primary School
The Rotaract Club of Antigua has successfully concluded its impactful ‘Drops of Change’ initiative, a project aimed at enhancing access to clean drinking water, fostering sustainability, and engaging youth in community service. On September 11, 2025, the Club, alongside library staff and students from various institutions, unveiled a drinking water dispenser at the National Public Library. This initiative underscores the importance of hydration, particularly in the context of climate change and rising global temperatures. Community Service Director Kayah Ward emphasized the broader goals of the project, stating, ‘This dispenser symbolizes our dedication to healthier habits, reducing single-use plastics, and advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.’ The dispenser, now a fixture in the library’s lobby, was accompanied by twelve five-gallon water bottles, with the public encouraged to contribute additional bottles to sustain the effort. Additionally, the Club organized a Creative Writing Competition themed ‘Access to Clean Water,’ which saw enthusiastic participation from primary schools across Antigua. Winners, including Asia Joseph from Newfield Primary School, were recognized for their insightful submissions. The initiative highlights the Club’s commitment to community well-being, sustainability, and youth empowerment, while fostering collaboration with local institutions and corporate partners.