标签： Barbados

Barbados has reached a significant milestone in its nationwide literacy initiative with the successful establishment of 25 Free Little Libraries across the island. The final installation at Mount Tabor Primary School on Monday marked the completion of Phase 2 of the Barbados is Blooming project, a collaborative effort led by the Prince Godwill D. Fomusoh Foundation Caribbean Inc. (PGDFF) and the Massy Foundation (Barbados) Inc. Launched in October 2024, the initiative has strategically placed book-sharing hubs in primary schools, children’s homes, and community centers, ensuring equitable access to reading materials for children in St John and surrounding areas. Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, Chief Education Officer, emphasized the transformative power of reading for pleasure, noting its role in fostering academic success, language development, and imaginative thinking. She highlighted the importance of community and stakeholder engagement in achieving national literacy goals, particularly the ambitious target of ensuring every child can read by age seven. Anita Sundaram, Managing Director of PGDFF, described the project as a meaningful step toward nurturing curiosity and opportunity for children, while Jared Wright of the Massy Foundation praised its broader impact on families and communities. Beyond the libraries, the initiative has supported inclusive education programs and hands-on skills development, such as the Farm-to-Table agricultural program at Ann Hill Special Needs School. The partners reaffirmed their commitment to creating spaces where children can explore stories, enhance literacy, and unlock their full potential.

The National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) has firmly stated that hundreds of government employees will not receive approval for new terms and conditions until their job security and benefits are fully guaranteed. General Secretary Richard Greene emphasized on Thursday that unionized workers are being actively represented to secure the best possible outcomes during ongoing reforms.

The close-knit community of Halls Road, St Michael, Barbados, is mourning the tragic loss of 63-year-old David Leacock, who died from injuries sustained during a violent family dispute. The incident occurred late Tuesday evening at Leacock’s home in Marl Hole Gap, where he reportedly clashed with a male relative. The altercation turned physical, leaving Leacock critically injured. He was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

For over a year, residents of Ashton Hall, St Peter, have been grappling with an unbearable stench emanating from a nearby pig farm, despite repeated complaints to authorities and assurances of improved waste management. The pungent odor, described as a major disruption to daily life, continues to affect the community, leaving locals frustrated and desperate for a resolution. The piggery owners, who had pledged last December to enhance their waste management practices, expressed confusion over the ongoing issue, claiming they regularly clean the premises and use disinfectants like Jeyes Fluid. However, residents argue that the smell persists, particularly from a gully behind the pig pens, and has severely impacted their quality of life. Franklin Corbin, an 87-year-old retiree, lamented that the stench forces him to retreat indoors, even on his patio, while Rodney Bovell highlighted the challenge of enjoying meals during peak odor times. Concerns have also been raised about the area’s designation as a Zone One water catchment, which supplies water to northern parishes. Despite visits from health inspectors and suggestions for improvements, the problem remains unresolved, leaving residents to endure the ongoing nuisance.

In a prestigious ceremony at the State House on Wednesday, 50 residents of St Michael were celebrated for their decades-long dedication to community service and national development. The event, split into morning and evening sessions, saw 25 individuals honored in each segment. Among the evening awardees was Rodney Grant, CEO of the Pinelands Creative Workshop, recognized for over 40 years of leadership in community and cultural development. Grant emphasized the transformative power of the arts in empowering at-risk families and preserving Barbados’ cultural heritage, stating that the award was a collective achievement for the Pine community. Another notable honoree, Sophia Mechelle Greaves-Broome, was acknowledged for her 30 years of work in youth and community development, describing the recognition as a celebration of a legacy. Kathy Bernadette Harris, a long-time advocate for children and families, expressed humility at being honored, while Christopher Wayne Griffith, known for his contributions to community policing and youth engagement, felt honored to be recognized for his years of service. President Dame Sandra Mason praised the honorees for their selflessness and commitment, urging them to continue inspiring others. Minister of State Davidson Ishmael and MPs Corey Layne and Marsha Caddle also commended the recipients, emphasizing the importance of their ongoing contributions to society.