标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Michael Joseph, a young farmer from Antigua and Barbuda, has been awarded the prestigious title of CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year 2025. This accolade recognizes his innovative approach to agriculture and his unwavering commitment to the sector. The announcement was made this week, with the Ministry of Agriculture hailing it as a moment of pride for the nation.

Joseph’s journey in agriculture began modestly, but his ability to merge traditional farming practices with modern techniques has set him apart. He has been a vocal advocate for food security, climate-smart agriculture, and youth empowerment in the agricultural sector. His work emphasizes the importance of sustainability, as he integrates new technologies and environmentally friendly methods into his farming practices.

The Ministry of Agriculture, led by the Honourable Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, along with Permanent Secretary Walter Christopher and Director Gregory Bailey, extended their congratulations to Joseph. In a statement, the ministry highlighted that his achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the dedication and creativity of young farmers in Antigua and Barbuda.

The CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year award underscores the critical role young people play in shaping the Caribbean’s food systems. Joseph’s success is expected to inspire other youth to view agriculture as a dynamic and rewarding career path. The ministry reiterated its commitment to fostering youth engagement in agriculture, emphasizing that Joseph’s accomplishments will encourage more young men and women to contribute to national and regional food security.

Joseph’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential of agriculture to build communities, protect the environment, and create opportunities for future generations. His recognition serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young farmers across the Caribbean.

A 21-year-old man accused of unlawful sexual intercourse has been granted bail by the St John’s Magistrates’ Court. The defendant, who is self-employed, must meet several stringent conditions, including depositing $3,000, providing two sureties, surrendering his passport, and reporting to the police three times a week. Additionally, he has been ordered not to contact the 18-year-old complainant. Acting Chief Magistrate Dexter Wason highlighted that the accused has no prior record of similar offenses. The committal proceedings are scheduled for December 15, with the defendant being represented by attorney Wendel Alexander. This case has drawn significant attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and the court’s decision to grant bail under strict conditions.

A 24-year-old mother from Nut Grove and a man from Gray’s Farm have been brought before the court on charges of attempting to pass a forged cheque. The duo was granted bail set at $10,000 each, with a $1,000 cash deposit and two sureties required as conditions for their release. The woman has been ordered to surrender her passport, while her co-accused is prohibited from applying for one. Both individuals must report to the Gray’s Farm Police Station three times a week as part of their bail terms. The case has been adjourned to December 16 and will be transferred to the High Court for trial. The exact value of the alleged forged cheque remains undisclosed at this time. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of financial fraud and the legal measures in place to address such crimes.

The Antigua & Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is set to tackle the pressing issue of workplace stress and its impact on mental health during its 58th Annual Delegates Conference. A special panel discussion, scheduled for September 22, will bring together experts to explore strategies for managing stress, reducing stigma, and fostering a supportive work environment. The panel will feature notable speakers, including clinical psychologist Feona Charles-Richards, counsellor Harriet Warner, and Edgar Diaz, Regional Secretary for Latin America and the Caribbean at the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF).

Workplace stress has emerged as a significant concern, with many employees grappling with burnout, anxiety, depression, and declining productivity due to the demands of modern work environments. ABWU Deputy General Secretary Chester Hughes emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, ‘Stress on the job is not just a personal matter—it’s a workplace issue. Employers and unions must collaborate to create healthier environments where employees feel supported, respected, and valued. Mental health must be treated with the same urgency as physical safety.’

The discussion is part of the ABWU’s broader initiative to prioritize mental health support and stress management in collective bargaining, workplace policies, and employer practices. The forum will take place during the conference’s business session on September 22 at 2:00 p.m., aiming to equip stakeholders with practical tools to address this growing challenge.

Nelisha Mirage, a distinguished graduate of Antigua Girls’ High School, has been honored as the top matriculant for 2025 at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. This prestigious recognition was bestowed upon her during the university’s matriculation ceremony, where she signed the register on behalf of the incoming class—a tradition reserved for the student with the highest academic performance.

The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus marked a historic milestone as it welcomed its largest-ever cohort of students during the 2025 Matriculation and Welcome Ceremony in St. John’s, Antigua. Despite inclement weather, over 400 new students, accompanied by their families and university staff, gathered to celebrate their formal induction into the UWI community. This year’s intake saw 443 students admitted from a record 750 applicants, pushing the campus’s total enrolment beyond 1,300. The diverse cohort includes students from Antigua and Barbuda, as well as virtual participants from across the Eastern Caribbean, such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Lucia. Campus Principal Professor Justin Robinson emphasized the institution’s rapid growth and urged students to view themselves as catalysts for Caribbean transformation. The ceremony featured symbolic traditions, including the signing of the matriculation register, the recitation of the academic vow, and the lighting of the ‘Flame of Excellence,’ which symbolizes knowledge, truth, and shared responsibility. Dr. Camille Samuel, Campus Registrar, reminded students of their lifelong commitment to the UWI community, while Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, joining virtually, highlighted UWI’s global standing and the pivotal role students play in regional development. The event concluded with the university song, performed by the Five Islands Chorale, marking the beginning of the students’ academic journey. This matriculation ceremony not only celebrated a significant milestone but also underscored the institution’s mission to nurture future leaders and change-makers for the Caribbean.