标签： Barbados

As Barbados marks its 59th year of independence, educators such as Shurland Boyce are using this significant milestone to contemplate the nation’s journey and the future of its youth, emphasizing both accomplishments and the hurdles that lie ahead. Lauryn Escamilla reports.

In the Theatre Arts classroom at Christ Church Foundation School, the rhythmic commands of a man echo through the halls — “Marching, boxing, freeze, unfreeze!” Shurland Boyce, standing at the front, leads his third form Theatre Arts class through acting exercises. The room is filled with a mix of laughter and concentration as students perform their routines, embodying a blend of energy and discipline that mirrors the spirit of both the classroom and the nation at 59.

Boyce, who teaches English Language, Literature, and Theatre Arts, shares his perspective on independence. “For me, Independence is a time of unity,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate our progress and achievements over these 59 years. While some may see it as just another day, we must recognize its cultural significance and how we can build on our independence to propel the nation forward.”

Originally from England, where he taught for a decade, Boyce reflects on his 15 years of teaching in Barbados and the moment he truly felt he was making a difference. “In my second year, I was teaching English Language at CSEC for the first time. That year, 17 out of 25 students achieved Grade Ones. It was then I felt I was contributing something meaningful — the students were learning, and we were moving forward.”

As Barbados reflects on its journey since 1966, Boyce is focused on the role of education in shaping the nation’s future. “My hope is that we develop our students into global citizens,” he explained. “They should know they’re not limited to working only in Barbados. I envision a more comprehensive education system, especially at the tertiary level, with more opportunities and choices, enabling them to secure well-paid jobs here.”

However, Boyce also voices concerns about the uncertainty many young people face. “Many of our students are unsure about their future paths,” he noted. “We can do more to expose them to colleges and universities, allowing them to spend a day there, observe operations, and speak with lecturers. I believe this could make a significant difference.”

Despite these challenges, Boyce’s classroom remains a beacon of hope. Fifth form students often visit during their free periods, a testament to the strong connections he has fostered with them.

This Independence season, Boyce’s classroom at Christ Church serves as a microcosm of the broader national aspiration — one of progress, purpose, and pride in nurturing the next generation of Barbadians.

Under the radiant morning sun, hundreds assembled at National Heroes Square in Barbados on Sunday for the annual Remembrance Day service. This year’s event commemorated the 107th anniversary of the end of the First World War and the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of the Second World War. The ceremony honored not only those who served in these global conflicts but also Barbadians who have contributed to peacekeeping missions worldwide. The event was marked by a solemn procession featuring both armed and unarmed units, including the Barbados Prison Service, Barbados Fire Service, and various youth organizations. The parade, led by Captain Samuel Boyce, showcased the precision and discipline of the Barbados Regiment, Coast Guard, Police Service, and Cadet Corps. The service was enriched by the choir of St Michael’s Cathedral, creating a poignant atmosphere. Key dignitaries, including Chief Justice Leslie Haynes, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and President Dame Sandra Mason, paid their respects. A two-minute silence was observed to reflect on the sacrifices of those memorialized on the cenotaph, including 39 Barbadians who lost their lives in the Second World War. The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths and the stirring strains of ‘Beautiful Barbados,’ as the President and Prime Minister inspected veterans before the units executed a precise march-past.

Starcom Network Inc. has firmly stated that the dismissal of Ronnie ‘De Announcer’ Clarke, its former Programme Manager, was not linked to his performance of a contentious calypso at this year’s Pic-O-De-Crop competition. Instead, the decision followed a formal disciplinary process concerning internal company matters. Anthony Greene, Starcom’s General Manager, emphasized that while the public may associate Clarke’s termination with his controversial calypso performance at the National Carol Festival, the action was rooted in concerns about his role within the organization. Greene expressed gratitude for Clarke’s 25 years of service and acknowledged his contributions to the company. The termination, effective last Friday, was the result of a disciplinary process aligned with internal protocols and national labor laws, involving legal representation from both sides. Clarke, a veteran calypsonian and broadcaster, has contested his dismissal, citing ‘serious misconduct’ as the stated reason. He met with the Labour Department on Monday to present his case and has until Friday to file an appeal with Starcom. His attorney, Hal Gollop, has communicated with the Labour Department and is confident the appeal will be submitted before the deadline. Clarke plans to address the public at a freedom of expression march on Saturday, where he intends to reveal additional details. The termination letter, signed by Noel Wood, CEO of Starcom’s parent company, the Nation Group, cited Clarke’s remarks on the Marcia Weekes Show on July 16 as breaches of company policies. Specifically, three of his statements were deemed false, malicious, and detrimental to Starcom’s interests. One such statement criticized the company’s lack of transparency, describing it as a failure to address ‘the elephant in the room.’ Clarke’s case continues to draw public attention as he seeks to challenge his dismissal and defend his professional reputation.

Authorities have confirmed the identity of the individual fatally shot during a violent confrontation in Weston, St James, over the weekend. The deceased, 26-year-old Doniko Avery Gaskin from The Garden, St James, lost his life in the early hours of Saturday, November 8. The incident unfolded around 1:30 a.m. when three masked, armed men approached a licensed firearm holder as he was exiting a business establishment. According to police reports, the armed men confronted the individual and opened fire. In response, the licensed firearm holder reportedly drew his weapon and returned fire, injuring two of the assailants. Gaskin succumbed to his injuries at the scene, while the other injured man was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for medical attention. Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the incident and have urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Holetown Police Station at 419-1700, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS (8477), or Police Emergency at 211.

The vibrant spirit of Barbados came alive at Queen’s Park in The City on Friday evening as the inaugural Barbados Food and Rum Simplex Trading Community Cook-Off Finals showcased the island’s rich culinary traditions. Six talented home cooks from across the parishes of Barbados competed fiercely for the coveted title of top community chef, with Heather Aimes of St Joseph emerging victorious. Her winning dish—cornmeal cou-cou paired with steamed fish, pickled cucumber, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes—captured the essence of authentic Bajan cuisine and earned her the $7,500 grand prize. The competition, a highlight of the 2025 Barbados Food and Rum Festival, celebrated the creativity and skill of everyday cooks, bringing communities together through food. Second place went to Sarah Hoppie of St Andrew, who took home $5,000, while Chade Marshall of St George secured third place with a $2,500 prize. Executive Chef Henderson Butcher, the festival’s culinary director, praised the event for fostering unity and showcasing the depth of Barbadian food culture. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening community bonds and preserving culinary heritage. For Heather Aimes, the win was a proud moment, as her traditional cou-cou dish resonated deeply with the judges and audience alike. The event not only highlighted the island’s gastronomic excellence but also underscored the power of food as a unifying force in Barbados.