标签： Antigua and Barbuda

A groundbreaking educational initiative combining academic reinforcement with comprehensive wellness support has been launched at Five Islands Primary School and Greenbay Primary School in Antigua. This innovative program represents a holistic approach to student development, addressing both educational needs and health requirements that fundamentally impact learning capabilities.

The program operates on the principle that academic excellence and physical wellbeing are intrinsically linked. By simultaneously strengthening instructional support systems and health outcomes, the initiative creates an optimized environment where students can achieve their maximum potential. The project enjoys political backing from Senator Michael Joseph, ABLP Caretaker for St. John’s Rural West, who serves as Junior Minister in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs.

Academic enhancement components include structured after-school instruction for Grade Six students in Mathematics and English Language. Two specialized educators—one dedicated to mathematics instruction and another focusing on English—deliver targeted academic support four days weekly. Students participate in rotating group sessions to ensure balanced exposure to both subjects. These additional instructional hours serve multiple purposes: reinforcing classroom learning, recovering lost instructional time, and preparing students more effectively for national standardized assessments.

While the schools maintain responsibility for the academic framework, the program receives substantial augmentation through financial assistance, vitamin supplements, and additional resources provided through senatorial support, ensuring successful implementation.

The wellness dimension constitutes a equally critical component, with all participating students receiving daily nutritional supplements specifically formulated to support immune function, cognitive development, and overall health. The supplementation regimen includes multivitamins, DHA, vitamin C, and elderberry, complementing existing school meal programs. This nutritional support aims to reduce illness-related absenteeism while promoting sustained engagement in learning activities. Each student receives a three-month supply of supplements for administration under parental supervision, with continuation evaluated based on observed outcomes.

School administrators have enthusiastically endorsed the initiative as a timely intervention. Principal Alden James of Five Islands Primary School emphasized that the extended learning hours provide a structured, supervised environment during after-school periods. Acting Principal Cleopatra Henry of Greenbay Primary School highlighted the program’s dual approach to addressing both academic deficiencies and nutritional challenges affecting student populations.

Currently, more than 95 Grade Six students across both institutions are participating in the comprehensive program. Implementation will be closely monitored throughout the academic year, with performance metrics utilized to evaluate effectiveness. Successful outcomes may lead to program expansion in subsequent academic years, potentially extending the integrated approach to additional grade levels and schools.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment to youth development in St. John’s Rural West, aligning educational support with wellness interventions to not only improve examination results but also foster long-term student success and resilience.

The nation of Antigua and Barbuda is in mourning following the passing of Sir Gerald Owen Anderson Watt, KCN, KC, a towering figure in the country’s legal and political landscape. His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Her Excellency Lady Williams have issued official condolences expressing profound sorrow at the loss of the former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In their tribute, the Governor-General and Lady Williams highlighted Sir Gerald’s exceptional decades-long career in public service, during which he held multiple prestigious positions including Attorney General, Parliamentarian, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, and President of the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association. His most notable role as long-serving Speaker of the House of Representatives spanned over a decade, where he demonstrated remarkable dedication to parliamentary procedures and democratic principles.

Renowned for his formidable legal intellect and spirited demeanor, Sir Gerald was celebrated for his unwavering convictions and readiness to engage in vigorous debate. His distinctive combination of intellectual rigor and outspoken nature brought substantial clarity and courage to critical national discussions concerning legal frameworks, governance structures, and constitutional matters. This significant contribution played a pivotal role in strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic institutions.

Throughout his distinguished career—whether in parliamentary chambers, courtrooms, or public forums—Sir Gerald consistently commanded respect for his principled positions and steadfast commitment to advancing the nation’s best interests. His tenure as Speaker was particularly noted for its passion, thoroughness, and profound respect for the responsibilities inherent to the office.

The Governor-General and Lady Williams emphasized that Sir Gerald’s legacy of exemplary public service, intellectual bravery, and national devotion will endure in the nation’s collective memory. His absence will be deeply felt across the legal and political spheres.

Their Excellencies have extended heartfelt sympathies to the Watt family, offering assurances of prayers and support during this period of profound loss and reflection for the nation.

The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has announced the passing of its former chairman, Sir Gerald Watt, KC, who died on December 13, 2025. The commission expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and professional associates.

Sir Gerald’s transformative leadership as ABEC Chairman from 2004 to 2009 fundamentally reshaped the nation’s electoral governance. During this formative period, he established critical administrative structures and operational protocols that became the bedrock of electoral integrity in Antigua and Barbuda. His tenure was characterized by visionary reforms that modernized the commission while strengthening public trust in democratic processes.

Current Supervisor of Elections Ian S. Hughes emphasized Sir Gerald’s exceptional contributions, noting his ‘principled leadership and sound judgment’ that established robust governance frameworks. ‘His vision and steady counsel laid a strong foundation upon which the Commission continues to build,’ Hughes stated, highlighting the enduring legacy of professionalism and dedication.

Ambassador Arthur G.B Thomas, current ABEC Chairman, contextualized Sir Gerald’s impact within a challenging political landscape. ‘He joined during a pivotal stage when modern electoral administration was still being defined,’ Thomas remarked, acknowledging how Sir Gerald navigated heightened political polarization through frank dialogue and ethical conviction.

Renowned for his legal expertise and unwavering impartiality, Sir Gerald became a towering figure in the commission’s history. His approach combined fairness, independence, and profound respect for the rule of law, setting exemplary standards that continue to guide ABEC’s operations. His calm authority and strategic reforms left an indelible mark on electoral administration and democratic governance throughout the nation.

A groundbreaking initiative to foster sustainable economic development through artisan training is now underway in Antigua. Integrated Health Outreach (IHO), a nonprofit organization, has unveiled an innovative 8-week ‘Arts & Crafts Making for Business’ program, generously supported by 30 full scholarships for qualified applicants.

The application window for these competitive scholarships commenced on December 12, 2025, and will remain open until January 15, 2026. Successful candidates will gain comprehensive hands-on training in four specialized craft disciplines: artisanal soapmaking, candlemaking, resin crafts, and traditional flower pressing techniques. The instructional sessions will be conducted twice weekly at the historic BBC Relay Station facility in Lightfoot, with courses scheduled to begin on February 2, 2026.

This vocational training program represents a strategic component of IHO’s broader climate resilience efforts within Nelson’s Dockyard National Park (NDNP). The initiative operates under the CBF EbA Caribbean Project, funded by the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, with a primary focus on creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for residents of environmentally vulnerable communities.

Priority consideration is being given to applicants from ten designated communities within the NDNP focus area: Liberta, Falmouth, Cobbs Cross, English Harbour, Spring Hill, Patterson, Fishers, Doigs, Barters, and Cherry Hill. The selection process incorporates an initial eligibility screening followed by a substantive final question where candidates must articulate their qualifications and need for the program.

Kieron Murdoch, IHO Communications Officer, reported strong early application numbers and emphasized the importance of compelling responses to the final application question. “This program offers exceptional value for both established entrepreneurs seeking skill enhancement and individuals pursuing supplemental household income through marketable product creation,” Murdoch stated.

The arts and crafts course joins several other sustainability initiatives under IHO’s CBF EbA Caribbean Project umbrella, including beekeeping training, ecotourism certification programs, and a scuba diving scholarship program supporting marine conservation efforts with the National Parks Authority. Additional project components include coral restoration, wetland assessments, and comprehensive public consultation activities.

Law enforcement authorities have launched a criminal investigation into a brazen chain-snatching robbery that occurred at Foodland Mini Mart on DeSouza Road. The incident targeted a female victim who was accosted by unidentified assailants who swiftly seized her jewelry before making their escape.

According to preliminary reports, the perpetrators managed to flee the scene in a vehicle that was reportedly left bearing license plate R4727. This critical piece of evidence has become the focal point of the ongoing investigation as police work to identify and locate the suspects.

Local law enforcement officials are actively pursuing multiple investigative leads and have issued a public appeal for information regarding both the vehicle and its occupants. The investigation combines traditional detective work with potential review of surveillance footage from the commercial establishment and surrounding areas.

This incident highlights continuing concerns about street crime targeting valuable personal items in commercial districts. Police have reminded citizens to maintain situational awareness in public spaces and report any suspicious activities immediately.

The investigation remains ongoing with authorities confident that the vehicle registration evidence will lead to significant breakthroughs in the case.

In a significant environmental policy expansion, the government has unveiled plans to amplify its nursery and landscaping program, positioning green infrastructure as a core component of urban development rather than a supplementary feature. The initiative, detailed by Housing Minister Maria Browne during the Budget Debate, represents a strategic integration of ecological planning with housing and infrastructure projects.

Under this enhanced program, government-operated nurseries are cultivating substantial quantities of plants and trees for distribution across multiple fronts. Public buildings and facilities are receiving botanical enhancements, while simultaneously, new homeowners are being provided with plants as part of their housing packages to encourage immediate green space establishment.

The program’s fundamental philosophy centers on embedding environmental considerations directly into development processes. Rather than treating landscaping as an afterthought, planners are now mandated to incorporate green spaces from the initial design phase of all projects. This approach aims to create more sustainable communities with improved air quality, reduced urban heat island effect, and enhanced aesthetic value.

Beyond aesthetic and quality-of-life improvements, the initiative serves critical practical functions. The strategic placement of vegetation supports flood management infrastructure by increasing water absorption capacity during heavy rainfall events, thereby reducing runoff and mitigating flood risks. This natural infrastructure simultaneously contributes to climate resilience efforts while protecting built environments.

Government officials emphasize that the program seeks to foster a culture of environmental stewardship among residents. By involving communities in the maintenance and care of provided plants, the initiative encourages long-term engagement with sustainable practices. The program is scheduled to continue through 2026 as part of a comprehensive strategy to intertwine housing development, infrastructure modernization, and environmental management in national planning.