标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda has achieved a significant milestone in its maritime sector with the successful completion of its inaugural Maritime Apprenticeship Programme by three young apprentices. This groundbreaking initiative, launched earlier this year at the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC) Conference in Curaçao, was a collaborative effort between Tropical Shipping, PMAC, and the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority. Spanning six weeks, the programme offered a blend of classroom education, practical training, and mentorship in critical areas such as cargo handling, vessel operations, and port logistics. Tamara Lowe-James, Island Manager of Tropical Shipping and chair of the programme committee, emphasized the initiative’s goal to cultivate a skilled and motivated workforce. “The future of our industry hinges on the dedication and adaptability of young professionals,” she stated. Acting Port Manager Jason Roberts highlighted the programme’s role in shedding light on often-overlooked career opportunities within the port sector, which is increasingly embracing technological advancements. The apprentices were awarded certificates during a ceremony held on Tuesday, where they shared how the programme enhanced their technical expertise and career aspirations. Organizers expressed gratitude to local partners and announced plans to continue the programme annually, selecting three new participants each year to foster a robust maritime workforce.

The Victory Center, a dedicated institution for children with special needs, has issued an urgent plea for public assistance following a recent burglary at its facility. The break-in, which occurred last week, resulted in the theft of several critical items essential for the education and care of their students. Among the stolen items are air conditioners from multiple classrooms, two televisions, two speakers, an ice maker, seven tablets, two 5-gallon water bottles, and one transformer. These items are indispensable for the daily operations and the nurturing environment that the center strives to maintain.

Founded in 2012, the Victory Center has been a beacon of hope for over 40 children with special needs, including those with Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, developmental delays, and various learning disabilities. The center’s approach emphasizes small, ability-based classes, a holistic curriculum, and individualized support to ensure each child can learn, grow, and thrive. Many students have benefited from long-term support, while others have successfully transitioned back into government schools after acquiring essential academic, social, and emotional skills.

The loss of these items has placed an unexpected burden on the small school community, disrupting the learning environment that these children rely on. The center is now calling on the public for help—whether through providing information about the stolen items, donating similar equipment, offering financial support, or forming partnerships. Every act of generosity, no matter the size, will help ensure that the students are not further disadvantaged and that their educational journey continues without interruption.

The Victory Center extends its heartfelt gratitude in advance for the public’s support, compassion, and commitment to protecting spaces dedicated to children with special needs.

The Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing (WISH) has announced its participation in the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, aligning with the 2025 UNiTE campaign theme: ‘UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.’ This year’s focus highlights the escalating threat of digital abuse, including online harassment, cyberstalking, deepfake pornography, and doxxing, which are increasingly used to harm women and girls globally. The campaign, running from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), underscores that gender-based violence, whether online or offline, is a public health crisis and a human rights issue. WISH’s efforts aim to strengthen digital safety, challenge harmful online behaviors, and hold platforms and institutions accountable for enabling abuse. Chaneil Imhoff, Founder of WISH, emphasized the mental health impacts of digital violence, stating that it leaves deep emotional scars and can lead to real-life harm. WISH plans to amplify survivor voices, advocate for safer online spaces, and encourage workplaces, schools, and communities to take actionable steps, such as hosting digital safety training and supporting organizations that aid survivors. Imhoff called for collective responsibility, urging families, workplaces, and institutions to act against online abuse and prioritize mental health. The campaign serves as a reminder that digital safety is essential to achieving gender equality and that the fight against violence must be a year-round commitment.

In a collaborative effort to enhance the capabilities of local contractors, the government has joined forces with the Caribbean Development Bank to inaugurate a two-day capacity-building workshop. This initiative is designed to equip contractors with advanced skills, enabling them to compete more effectively for significant projects. Works Minister Maria Browne emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, highlighting the government’s vision for a robust construction sector. She noted that the enhanced competitiveness of local contractors is crucial for national development and for expanding their reach into regional markets. The workshop underscores the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for local businesses to thrive on a larger scale.