In a momentous celebration of its 65th anniversary, Public School Maretraite in Suriname was honored with a visit from Lalinie Gopal, Minister of Youth Development and Sports, representing President Jennifer Simons. The minister lauded the institution for its decades-long commitment to education, praising the collective efforts of teachers, support staff, and parents. She highlighted the school as a shining example of dedication, collaboration, and community spirit within Suriname’s educational landscape. Minister Gopal emphasized the three pillars that have sustained O.S. Maretraite for 65 years: its devoted staff, eager learners, and its role as a community hub for instilling values. “You are doing incredible work in shaping our youth. Education offers countless opportunities—opportunities not every child receives. Make the most of them,” she urged. The minister expressed pride in the school’s strong culture and called for continued collaboration between the government, educators, and the community. “Soon, we must work together to shape the future of our nation. I am proud of O.S. Maretraite,” Gopal stated, extending the government’s congratulations for 65 years of growth and dedication. School leader Nafiza Makdoembaks underscored that O.S. Maretraite is not just a place of learning but also a safe haven where children feel at home and thrive. “Learning, growing, laughing, and becoming stronger together—that’s what our school stands for. We are grateful to all teachers, staff, and parents who entrust us with their confidence,” she said. The jubilant celebration featured student performances showcasing their talents and creativity, alongside speeches honoring the school community’s shared commitment.
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Freedom or fatality? Police warn motorcyclists to put safety first
Authorities in Saint Lucia are intensifying their efforts to locate the body of 20-year-old Ajanie Hippolyte from Marisule, Gros Islet, who is presumed to have drowned near Marisule Beach on October 7, 2025. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) reported that officers from the Rodney Bay Police Station were dispatched to the scene following a distress call about a potential drowning incident at approximately 4:50 p.m. Initial investigations reveal that Hippolyte was among a group of four individuals who were kayaking when their vessels began to take on water and eventually capsized. While attempting to swim back to shore, Hippolyte struggled to stay afloat, and despite the efforts of his companions to save him, he disappeared beneath the waves. The RSLPF Marine Unit swiftly initiated a search operation but has yet to locate the young man. The search resumed the following day, October 8, as authorities remain committed to bringing closure to this tragic event.
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Standards adopted for alcohol-based hand sanitiser
The Grenada Bureau of Standards, the sole government agency responsible for standards approvals and enforcement, has announced the implementation of a new national standard for alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Effective from 6 October 2025, this voluntary standard, designated as GDS 145: 2025 (CRS 76:2023), establishes minimum requirements to ensure the safety and efficacy of over-the-counter alcohol-based hand sanitisers. The standard, adopted from the CROSQ Standard CRS 76:2023, outlines specific chemical and labelling requirements but excludes non-alcohol-based, medical-grade, and surgical-use hand sanitisers.
In addition to this development, the Bureau is in the final stages of establishing national standards for toilet tissue and hollow blocks. The public is invited to provide feedback on these draft standards, which will replace existing mandatory standards, from 6 October to 5 December 2025. Standards play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of materials, products, and processes, and Grenada maintains a mix of voluntary and mandatory standards. Public input is a vital part of the standard-setting process, ensuring that the standards meet the needs and expectations of the community.
The Grenada Bureau of Standards continues to uphold its mandate to regulate and enforce standards, contributing to public health and safety while fostering consumer confidence in locally available products.
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PM Mitchell delivers call to action at sargassum conference
At the 3rd EU–Caribbean Global Gateway Conference on Sargassum, held on 8 October 2025 in Brussels, Grenada’s Prime Minister Hon. Dickon Mitchell delivered a compelling and action-oriented speech, highlighting the critical need for scalable and sustainable solutions to the sargassum crisis plaguing the Caribbean region. The conference, part of the Global Gateway Forum, united high-level officials, industry leaders, academics, and financial institutions from the Caribbean, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Europe to transition from pilot projects to commercially viable solutions for sargassum management. Prime Minister Mitchell emphasized Grenada’s commitment to transforming the environmental challenge into an opportunity for resilience, innovation, and green economic growth. He outlined three strategic measures for international support: immediate technical assistance to establish monitoring systems and pilot units, blended finance and grant support to de-risk investments and empower local enterprises, and market and policy support to stimulate demand and facilitate regional trade. Mitchell urged the global community to move from research to actionable results, stressing the importance of turning the crisis into a driver of sustainable growth, job creation, and environmental renewal. The conference, organized under the EU–LAC Global Gateway Investment Agenda, marked a significant step in fostering cooperation between the EU, Latin America, and the Caribbean, setting the stage for the upcoming EU–CELAC Summit 2025. Mitchell’s leadership in sargassum innovation and blue economy development resonated strongly with partners dedicated to sustainable pathways for the Caribbean.
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Confucius Institute celebrates 10 years of cultural and educational exchange
The Confucius Institute at T A Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) commemorated its 10th anniversary on October 6 with a grand ceremony, celebrating a decade of promoting Chinese language education and cultural exchange in Grenada. The event was attended by prominent figures, including His Excellency Yang Shu, the Chinese Ambassador to Grenada; Dr. Wendy Grenade, Chair of the TAMCC Council; Elvis Morain, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education; and Andrew Abraham, Principal of TAMCC, alongside senior college officials and school principals. In their speeches, the dignitaries highlighted the institute’s pivotal role in enhancing Grenada-China relations. Principal Abraham praised the institute for broadening students’ perspectives and serving as a gateway to Chinese culture, while Ambassador Yang Shu lauded it as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations. Dr. Fan Jiang, Resident Director of the Confucius Institute, recounted the institute’s journey, from launching comprehensive language programs to organizing flagship cultural events like the “Spring Festival Gala.” David Ambrose, Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences, and Professional Studies, attributed these successes to the collaborative efforts of both Chinese and Grenadian teams. The celebration featured a vibrant cultural performance, blending Chinese and Grenadian traditions through songs, kung fu, tai chi, and traditional dances. The event concluded with the exchange of a 10th-anniversary cooperation certificate and a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing a commitment to continued partnership and mutual learning.
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Over one hundred teachers appointed permanently; delays ‘not fair’ says PM
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica has officially announced the permanent appointments of 125 teachers in 2025, marking a significant step in addressing the nation’s educational staffing needs. During a recent press conference, Skerrit disclosed that while these appointments have been confirmed, numerous additional requests are still pending review by the public service commission. He emphasized the need for more efficient communication within the system, citing delays in notifying appointees as a critical issue. ‘It takes too long for a letter to reach the employee,’ Skerrit stated, recounting an instance where a decision made in April was only communicated months later. He stressed the importance of timely updates to ensure fairness and transparency. Beyond the 125 confirmed appointments, the Prime Minister hinted at more permanent positions being granted to teachers in the near future. Skerrit also expressed concern over public officers remaining in temporary or acting roles for extended periods, labeling such practices as ‘unfair’ and ‘borderline unjust.’ He highlighted the challenges posed by study leaves and secondments, noting that these often delay permanent appointments for others. The cabinet has since taken a firm stance on limiting secondments to ensure smoother staffing processes. Skerrit explained that while ending a secondment might be misinterpreted as personal conflict, it is often necessary to facilitate permanent appointments for those in acting roles. He concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to addressing these systemic issues to improve the overall efficiency of public service appointments.
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Regering bouwt aan zorgsysteem dat recht doet aan menselijke waardigheid
In a decisive move to revitalize its ailing health sector, the Surinamese government has embarked on a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at transforming healthcare from a reactive system to one that actively promotes and protects public health. President Jennifer Simons, in her recent annual address, emphasized the need for effective leadership and strategic appointments to drive this transformation. The recent appointments of Rudrakanth Oemraw as Director of the State Health Fund (SZF) and Quincy Joemai as Director of the Suriname Medicines Supply Company (BGVS) underscore the government’s commitment to placing skilled and ethical leaders at the helm of critical health institutions.
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Grenada at State of the Tourism Industry Conference 2025
The Honourable Adrian Thomas, Grenada’s Minister of Tourism, spearheaded a high-profile delegation to the 2025 State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados. Accompanied by Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), and Tornia Charles, Chief Marketing Officer, the team actively engaged in discussions under the conference theme, ‘Reimagining Caribbean Tourism: Research, Relevance and the Road Ahead.’ Organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, the event attracted over 400 delegates from 31 countries and 50 industry experts, fostering dialogue on innovation, data-driven strategies, and regional partnerships to bolster the Caribbean’s global tourism standing. The Grenada delegation participated in strategic meetings and bilateral talks, focusing on collaborative opportunities in marketing, airlift, and investment. During a destination media briefing, the team showcased Grenada’s tourism growth over the past year and outlined strategic priorities for 2026, garnering significant regional media attention. Tornia Charles emphasized the importance of evidence-based decision-making and regional alignment, while Stacey Liburd highlighted the strength of collective regional efforts. Minister Adrian Thomas underscored SOTIC’s role in driving sustainable growth and Grenada’s commitment to collaboration and innovation. Additionally, Kealah Baptiste, Grenada’s Tourism Youth Minister, represented the nation at the Regional Tourism Youth Congress, showcasing the creativity and vision of the next generation of tourism leaders. With SOTIC 2025 concluded, the GTA remains dedicated to fostering partnerships and shaping its 2026 agenda, focusing on innovation, connectivity, and sustained growth for Grenada’s tourism sector.
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GTA leads promotional activations in Barbados
In a strategic move to enhance regional connectivity and showcase the vibrant essence of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) recently wrapped up a highly successful series of promotional events in Barbados. This initiative underscores GTA’s commitment to positioning the Tri-Island State as a top-tier Caribbean destination. The activations showcased Grenada’s diverse tourism offerings, with a special emphasis on its accommodation sector, cultural calendar, and signature events. Attendees were treated to a preview of upcoming festivals and immersive experiences that highlight the unique charm of ‘Pure Grenada, The Spice of the Caribbean.’ Tornia Charles, Chief Marketing Officer at GTA, emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating, ‘This promotion builds on our earlier sales mission, focusing on strategic engagement with travel agents and media.’ The campaign featured an exclusive Travel Agent and Media Dinner, uniting over 50 key stakeholders for an evening of networking and insights into Grenada’s evolving tourism landscape. The promotional drive also included a lively consumer pop-up event, where visitors experienced the energy and flavor of Grenada through live entertainment, including a standout performance by Sakinah Ambrose, the 2025 Groovy Monarch runner-up. Attendees savored authentic Grenadian oildown and participated in exciting giveaways, creating an electric atmosphere that embodied the warmth of the destination. Stacey Liburd, CEO of GTA, expressed her delight at the enthusiastic reception in Barbados, noting, ‘These regional engagements are vital to building awareness and fostering partnerships that drive tourism growth.’ The success of the Barbados activations was bolstered by strong collaborations with key players in accommodation, transportation, entertainment, and airline sectors. With a packed calendar of events and ongoing investments in partnerships and promotions, the Grenada Tourism Authority is steadfast in its mission to elevate the profile of the Tri-Island State both regionally and globally, paving the way for increased visibility and tourism growth.
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“This Win Is an Honour,” Says ABTA as Antigua and Barbuda Named Caribbean’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination 2025
In a landmark achievement, Antigua and Barbuda has been named the Caribbean’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination for 2025 at the prestigious World Travel Awards Caribbean and North America Gala Ceremony. This accolade marks the first time the twin-island nation has received this honor, solidifying its growing reputation as a hub for global events. The World Travel Awards, recognized as the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry, celebrates outstanding contributions across tourism, hospitality, and related sectors, with winners determined by industry professionals and consumers worldwide. Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, The Honourable Charles Fernandez, attributed this success to the collaborative efforts of government officials, tourism authorities, hotel partners, and destination management companies in enhancing the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The nation’s strategic focus on positioning itself as a premier destination for major events has been validated by this recognition. Recent high-profile conferences hosted by Antigua and Barbuda include the United Nations 4th International Conference of Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) in May 2024, the 43rd Caribbean Travel Marketplace in May 2025, and the 55th General Assembly of the Organization of American States in June 2025. Looking ahead, the country is set to host the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2026, its largest international event to date, which will welcome His Majesty King Charles III and leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations. Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, emphasized the nation’s readiness to deliver exceptional service for event planners and delegates, citing seamless air connections, modern infrastructure, and diverse accommodation options. Known for its UNESCO-listed Nelson’s Dockyard, 365 pristine beaches, and vibrant cultural calendar, Antigua and Barbuda seamlessly blends business with unforgettable experiences. For more information, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com.