Carib Scope

标签： Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Rotary Club of Antigua Donates Over $40,000 in Lifesaving Equipment to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre

    Rotary Club of Antigua Donates Over $40,000 in Lifesaving Equipment to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre

    The Rotary Club of Antigua (RCA) has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda by contributing over $40,000 XCD to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC). This generous donation, made during an official visit by Rotary District 7030 Governor Soraya Warner-Gustave, is earmarked for the acquisition of Bubble CPAP machines and pulse oximeters for the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

    The Bubble CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines are crucial for the care of premature and critically ill newborns, offering non-invasive respiratory support that aligns with international NICU standards. This technology significantly reduces complications and improves survival rates among preterm infants. Additionally, the donation includes several pulse oximeters, which are essential for monitoring oxygen levels in newborns, enabling the NICU team to provide faster and more efficient care.

    Michael Spencer, Past President of the Rotary Club of Antigua, emphasized the broader significance of the donation. ‘This is more than just equipment; it’s an investment in the future of our children,’ he said. ‘We are proud to support SLBMC in their mission to deliver high-quality neonatal care and ensure that even the tiniest patients receive the best possible start in life.’

    Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, Medical Director of SLBMC, expressed profound gratitude for the contribution. ‘The Rotary Club’s support continues to transform what’s possible for our patients,’ she noted. ‘These Bubble CPAP machines and pulse oximeters have already made a tangible difference in the care we provide. Countless babies and their families are benefiting from this investment.’

    Elisa Graham, current President of the Rotary Club of Antigua, reiterated the organization’s commitment to community health. ‘Supporting the hospital and, by extension, the health of our nation, is something we take great pride in,’ she said. ‘Our work is only possible because of the generosity of our members and the community, who believe in Rotary’s mission of service above self.’

    Beyond the immediate equipment, the donation will also fund additional resources to further strengthen neonatal care at SLBMC, underscoring RCA’s ongoing partnership with the medical centre and its dedication to improving patient outcomes.

  • Antigua and Barbuda considers tuition-free education for nationals at the UWI Five Islands Campus

    Antigua and Barbuda considers tuition-free education for nationals at the UWI Five Islands Campus

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda is actively exploring the possibility of providing tuition-free education for its citizens at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed that the administration is currently reviewing the proposal, which aligns with its ongoing efforts to support higher education accessibility.

    Browne emphasized that the government already subsidizes a substantial portion of student expenses through existing scholarship programs. ‘Nearly every student attending UWI Five Islands benefits from government scholarships,’ he stated. ‘Given this, we are now discussing the feasibility of eliminating tuition fees entirely. Since we are already covering most costs, it makes sense to make university education completely free for our nationals.’

    The Prime Minister highlighted that this initiative would reinforce the government’s dedication to broadening access to higher education and fostering sustainable national development. By removing financial barriers, the policy aims to empower more citizens to pursue advanced education, ultimately contributing to the country’s socio-economic progress.

  • Antigua and Barbuda’s National Culinary Team Arrives in Barbados for Regional Competition

    Antigua and Barbuda’s National Culinary Team Arrives in Barbados for Regional Competition

    The National Culinary Team of Antigua and Barbuda has made a grand entrance in Barbados, gearing up for the highly anticipated Taste of the Caribbean competition, hosted by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association. The event, scheduled from November 16 to 18, will see the team showcase their culinary prowess against regional rivals. Upon their arrival on Friday, the chefs and bartender were welcomed with a Barbados Transport Board bus adorned in Antigua and Barbuda branding—a gesture orchestrated by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. This initiative not only supports the team’s participation but also serves as a vibrant promotion of the nation’s culture and pride. Officials highlighted that the branded transport symbolizes a strong sense of national identity as the delegation embarks on their competitive journey. Over the three-day event, the team will face off against culinary experts from across the Caribbean, aiming to bring home accolades and further elevate their country’s reputation in the culinary arts.

  • Team Antigua Island Girls Present Uncharted Waters—an evening of untold stories from their historic Pacific Ocean row

    Team Antigua Island Girls Present Uncharted Waters—an evening of untold stories from their historic Pacific Ocean row

    Team Antigua Island Girls, the groundbreaking all-Black female rowing team, invites the public to an exclusive event titled ‘Uncharted Waters.’ This intimate evening, scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, at the John E. St. Luce Financial and Conference Centre, will feature emotional storytelling and never-before-shared insights from their record-breaking 2023 Pacific Ocean crossing. The event begins at 7:15 p.m., with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. for a pre-show experience. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore ‘Dadli Gyal,’ the boat that carried the team across 2,800 nautical miles over 47 days, sample the dehydrated meals that sustained the rowers, and participate in a raffle with prizes including a dinner for two at Jumby Bay. Tickets are priced at $150 for adults and $50 for youth under 16, available via the Ticketing app, Ken’s Club in Cassada Gardens, Kennedy’s in Powell’s, or SICON at the airport. All proceeds will support the establishment of a home for girls in conflict with the law, reflecting the team’s dedication to empowerment and social change. Team Antigua Island Girls, composed of Christal (author and swim instructor), Elvira (health and wellness coach), Kevinia (personal trainer and team captain), and Samara (Antigua and Barbuda’s first female boat captain), made history in 2018–2019 by rowing 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic. In 2023, Christal, Kevinia, and Samara took on the World’s Toughest Row—Pacific, inspiring global audiences with their determination and teamwork.

  • ABWU Announces Dr Dwayne ‘Baba’ Thwaites as Featured Speaker for 2025 Men’s Conference

    ABWU Announces Dr Dwayne ‘Baba’ Thwaites as Featured Speaker for 2025 Men’s Conference

    The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has revealed that Dr. Dwayne “Baba” Thwaites, a distinguished urologist, will be the keynote speaker at its 2025 International Men’s Day Conference. Scheduled for November 19, the event, themed “Healthy Men, Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Society,” will emphasize men’s physical and mental health, early disease detection, and fostering healthier work environments. Dr. Thwaites’ participation underscores the Union’s dedication to advancing discussions on men’s health both nationally and regionally. Recognized as one of the Caribbean’s foremost urology experts, Dr. Thwaites boasts a career marked by clinical excellence, groundbreaking research, and public health advocacy. His extensive training includes stints at prestigious U.S. institutions such as the University of Miami, Emory University, and the State University of New York. A graduate of Ottos Comprehensive School and St Joseph’s Academy, Dr. Thwaites completed his undergraduate studies at St Leo University in Florida and post-baccalaureate work at the University of South Florida. He earned his medical degree from the University of Miami, followed by a general surgery residency in New York and a trauma fellowship at St Vincent Hospital in Staten Island. Dr. Thwaites made history as Chief of Surgery at Alexandra Hospital in Nevis, performing the first laparoscopic surgery in the Eastern Caribbean. After specializing in urology at Emory University and the University of Miami, he returned to the region to conduct its first laser prostatectomy. Today, he maintains a successful urology practice and spearheads annual prostate screening initiatives across the Eastern Caribbean. The ABWU highlighted Dr. Thwaites’ trailblazing contributions and focus on early detection as vital to the conference’s mission. The event will convene on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

  • APUA crew at work in Jamaica supporting power restoration

    APUA crew at work in Jamaica supporting power restoration

    In a demonstration of regional solidarity, technicians from the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) have been dispatched to Jamaica to assist in ongoing electricity restoration efforts. This initiative is part of a coordinated response facilitated by the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC), which mobilizes resources and expertise across member nations during crises. The APUA team is working alongside the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) to address recent disruptions to the island’s power grid, focusing on repairing and stabilizing electrical lines in affected communities. This collaborative effort highlights the longstanding tradition of regional cooperation among utility providers, who routinely share manpower and technical knowledge in the aftermath of significant outages. APUA has confirmed that its technicians will remain in Jamaica until all assigned restoration tasks are completed, ensuring a swift and effective recovery.

  • Antigua & Barbuda Marks Arbor Day with Month-Long Push for Climate Resilience and Green Restoration

    Antigua & Barbuda Marks Arbor Day with Month-Long Push for Climate Resilience and Green Restoration

    Arbor Day, observed internationally on November 16, stands as a powerful reminder of the critical role trees play in environmental sustainability and humanity’s duty to protect the planet. Communities worldwide commemorate this day by planting trees, revitalizing green spaces, and raising awareness about climate change and biodiversity. While the date may vary across countries, the core mission remains consistent: fostering a greener, healthier, and more resilient Earth.

  • ABHTA Announces Nominees for Rising Star and Young Hotelier of the Year

    ABHTA Announces Nominees for Rising Star and Young Hotelier of the Year

    The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has unveiled the nominees for the prestigious Rising Star of the Year and Young Hotelier of the Year awards, set to be presented at the 2025 Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Awards. These accolades aim to honor the next generation of leaders in the hospitality industry, celebrating their dedication and professionalism in enhancing service standards nationwide.

    This year’s nominees hail from some of the country’s most renowned establishments, including Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, and Trade Winds Hotel. According to the ABHTA, these individuals embody the passion and excellence that drive Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector forward, contributing to elevated guest experiences and fostering industry-wide innovation.

    The winners will be revealed on November 29, 2025, during the Tourism Awards Gala, hosted at Sandals Grande Antigua under the theme “Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine.” The event is a collaborative effort between the ABHTA, the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), highlighting the collective commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the hospitality industry.

  • Employee and Supervisor of the Year Nominees Announced For 2025 Tourism Awards

    Employee and Supervisor of the Year Nominees Announced For 2025 Tourism Awards

    Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry is gearing up for a grand celebration of excellence as the nominees for the 2025 Tourism Awards have been unveiled. The prestigious event, organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), is scheduled for November 29, 2025, at the luxurious Sandals Grande Antigua. Titled ‘Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine,’ the ceremony aims to honor the remarkable contributions of tourism professionals across the nation. Key categories include ‘Employee of the Year’ and ‘Supervisor of the Year,’ spotlighting individuals who have exhibited exceptional dedication, skill, and enthusiasm in their roles. The nominees hail from some of Antigua’s most renowned hospitality establishments, such as Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocobay Resort, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Hermitage Bay, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Siboney Beach Club, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, Trade Winds Hotel, and The Escape at Nonsuch Bay. The ABHTA emphasized that the awards are a tribute to the individuals who propel the success of the country’s leading industry and foster a culture of excellence. The winners will be announced during the gala, marking a significant milestone in the tourism calendar and a moment to reflect on the resilience and growth of Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality sector.

  • Education Director Urges Full Participation in OECS Student Census

    Education Director Urges Full Participation in OECS Student Census

    Clare Browne, the Director of Education in Antigua and Barbuda, has passionately appealed to students, parents, and educators to actively support the upcoming 2025 OECS Student Census. Describing it as a pivotal initiative, Browne emphasized that the census transcends mere data collection, aiming instead to provide profound insights into how students ‘learn, live, and thrive’ within their educational environments. He highlighted that the findings will inform policy decisions focused on equity, quality, and inclusivity, ensuring the education system evolves to meet the diverse needs of students. The census, conducted by trained enumerators, guarantees a straightforward, confidential, and respectful process for all participants. Browne urged students to participate confidently and called on parents and educators to offer their unwavering support. ‘Together, we are shaping an education system that truly listens — one that responds to the needs, dreams, and voices of every child across the OECS,’ he stated. This initiative marks a significant step toward regional educational enhancement.