The Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) has issued a stark warning following a rat infestation at Deacons Primary School in St. Michael, which forced an abrupt closure on Monday. The incident has reignited calls for routine inspections and industrial-level deep cleaning across all public schools to ensure a safe learning environment. Parents were reportedly notified via WhatsApp messages around 10 a.m. to collect their children, though the reason for the early dismissal was not immediately disclosed. Later, officials from the Ministry of Health’s Vector Control Unit, the Ministry of Educational Transformation, and the BUT confirmed the closure was due to rodent sightings on campus. Julian Pierre, first vice-president of the BUT and head of its health and safety committee, revealed that the school had been grappling with environmental issues for over a week. Last week, concerns were raised about the school’s hall, prompting an inspection by the Vector Control Unit and the Ministry of Health. Industrial cleaning was subsequently conducted in the affected areas, but problems persisted. On Monday, another rodent sighting led teachers to evacuate students from the compromised area. Pierre emphasized that teachers have long been concerned about the general cleaning standards in public schools. He argued that schools should not wait for infestations or environmental incidents to justify deep cleaning, noting that while households undergo regular spring cleaning, schools often lack such proactive measures. He called for a structured maintenance regime, including scheduled inspections, regular cleaning, and water quality testing, in collaboration between the Ministries of Educational Transformation and Health. Deputy Chief Education Officer Julia Beckles confirmed that rodent droppings were identified at the school, prompting industrial cleaning. She assured that the school had been sanitized and would reopen on Tuesday. Pierre highlighted that rodent issues are not unique to Deacons Primary, urging a national focus on school hygiene and surrounding environments. He also stressed the importance of rodent-proofing measures, such as meshing and door sweeps, to prevent future infestations. The BUT has been advocating for systemic changes to ensure schools maintain a clean and safe environment for students and staff.
标签： Barbados
巴巴多斯
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Young farmers, new brands driving innovation
Barbados is witnessing a remarkable resurgence in its pig farming sector, driven by a concerted effort to reduce reliance on imported pork and enhance domestic sales. The Barbados Pig Farmers’ Association has reported a significant increase in membership, with numbers more than doubling as producers unite to strengthen their market position. This growth is fueled by government-backed financing, innovative product development, and an influx of younger farmers under 30 joining the industry.
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Rising stars shine in global health tech
Four ambitious students from the University of the West Indies (UWI) have embarked on a transformative journey into the future of healthcare, leveraging technology and innovation to position Barbados as a burgeoning hub for health tech advancements. The students—Daemon Dawson, Jahniqua Esdaille, Jaliea Lovell, and Tarika Birch—participated in the Health Tech Fellows Programme (HTFP), a groundbreaking initiative co-developed by FutureHEALTH and UWI. This program, supported by FutureBARBADOS and the IDB Lab, aimed to strengthen the health tech ecosystem in Barbados and the wider Caribbean. Over six weeks, the fellows gained hands-on experience at leading health technology companies in the UK and Europe, immersing themselves in digital health, artificial intelligence, medical devices, and health systems innovation. Dr. Kia Lewis, community activator for FutureHEALTH, emphasized the program’s mission to address the urgent need for health innovation in the region. ‘The initiative is designed to cultivate a pipeline of skilled professionals and establish a local health tech innovation culture with global partners,’ she explained. The students’ placements in Bristol, London, and Germany exposed them to international professionals and live projects, fostering both technical and professional growth. Dawson, who interned at Wanda Health in Bristol, described the experience as transformative, highlighting mentorship and exposure to cardiometabolic disease research. Birch, assigned to FluoretiQ, was inspired by the collaborative process of health tech development. Esdaille, working at NeuroVirt Limited in London, expanded her skills from back-end to full-stack development, while Lovell, placed in Germany, praised the inclusive and diverse culture of her host organization. Dr. Lewis noted that the fellows’ achievements underscore the potential of Caribbean talent in advancing health innovation. The program’s success reflects a growing collaboration between academia and industry, with plans to integrate health technology into UWI’s curriculum and create opportunities for knowledge transfer to local solutions.
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Govt to relaunch campaign for digital ID cards
The Barbadian government is spearheading a comprehensive public education initiative to address lingering skepticism surrounding its digital ID cards and foster broader confidence in technology-driven national projects. Sen. Jonathan Reid, Minister of Innovation, Industry, Science and Technology, highlighted the necessity of this campaign during his keynote address at the Global Business Conference, hosted by BIBA – The Association for Global Business – as part of Global Business Week. Held at the Wyndham Grand Sam Lord’s Castle, the event served as a platform to reassure citizens about the security, efficiency, and advanced capabilities of the digital ID system. Sen. Reid emphasized that the new digital IDs are designed to replace outdated laminated cards, which are susceptible to forgery and were originally created decades ago for voter registration. The minister acknowledged public apprehension, stating that such skepticism is common with new technological advancements. To combat this, the government will launch a nationwide communications campaign in the coming months to clearly explain the benefits of digital IDs, including enhanced convenience and seamless access to digital services. Sen. Reid also stressed that participation in the digital ID system remains voluntary, underscoring the importance of individual choice. He described the initiative as a secure method of verifying identity, storing personal information, and unlocking opportunities in the digital economy. Additionally, the minister highlighted the critical role of cybersecurity investments in supporting the government’s expanding digital infrastructure, ensuring the safety and reliability of these platforms. The campaign aims to build a foundation of trust, which Sen. Reid described as essential for the success of digital identification and the broader digital economy.
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Chickmont to meet Xmas egg demand
Barbados is taking proactive measures to ensure a steady supply of eggs and poultry products during the upcoming Christmas season and tourism peak. Chickmont Foods Limited, the island’s largest poultry producer, plans to import 360,000 eggs next month to address potential shortages. This decision was confirmed by Stephen Layne, President of the Barbados Egg and Poultry Producers Association (BEPPA), during the Barbados Agricultural Society’s annual general meeting held at the Radisson Aquatica Resort in St. Michael. Layne emphasized that the importation of a 40-foot container of eggs is essential to meet the heightened demand during the festive period and the winter tourism surge. Despite a similar shipment arriving just two months ago, the move underscores the importance of maintaining supply stability. Layne highlighted the preference for inter-regional trade, with eggs being sourced from Trinidad and Tobago (T&T). He also noted that the Ministry of Agriculture has implemented necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with global bird flu concerns. In addition to eggs, four containers of frozen poultry meat were recently imported to support fast-food operations, which were facing stock shortages. Layne expressed optimism about the recovery of domestic poultry production, citing improvements in the industry following setbacks such as the collapse of a Chickmont poultry house and the decline of Star Chick. However, he acknowledged that temporary imports remain crucial to meet the dual pressures of high local consumption and increased demand from the hospitality sector. The upcoming shipment, expected in November, is projected to fulfill national demand through the first quarter of 2024. Layne also reported stable poultry meat supplies heading into the festive season, expressing hope that the main hatchery will maintain its current production levels.
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Much ‘Moore’ than a bar
John Moore Bar, a cherished institution in Weston, St. James, Barbados, has long been more than just a rum shop—it’s a cultural landmark where community, tradition, and connection thrive. On Saturday, the bar celebrated its grand reopening, marking not just a return to business but the dawn of a new era. Proprietor Cherie Rochester, who took over from her uncle Lamonte ‘Greedy’ Addison, welcomed the crowd with a heartfelt, “Welcome home everyone!” Her words resonated deeply, as the bar holds a special place in her heart and in the lives of many Barbadians.
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Skerrit hails freedom of movement as a dream come true.
In a landmark decision, the Caribbean nations of Barbados, Belize, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dominica have collectively embraced full freedom of movement for their citizens, a move hailed by Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit as a ‘dream come true.’ Speaking at the Barbados Labour Party’s 86th Annual Conference in Queen’s Park, Skerrit emphasized the historic significance of this initiative, describing it as a pivotal step toward regional unity and opportunity. ‘History has turned the page,’ Skerrit declared, highlighting that this decision fulfills long-held aspirations of Caribbean leaders and citizens alike. He underscored the profound impact of the policy, framing it not merely as a legislative change but as a testament to the region’s shared vision of connection, progress, and dignity. ‘It means a Barbadian and a Dominican can live and work across each other’s shores with dignity, rights, and a sense of belonging,’ Skerrit explained. He further illustrated the practical benefits, noting that professionals like nurses and masons can now pursue opportunities across borders without bureaucratic hurdles. This development, Skerrit asserted, represents the culmination of decades of promises under CARICOM and the Treaty of Chaguaramas, embodying the vision of ‘one region, one people, one destiny.’ He praised Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley for her leadership in advancing the initiative and extended an open invitation to Barbadians to contribute to Dominica’s growth. Skerrit concluded by emphasizing the transformative potential of unity, stating, ‘Free movement, education, and resilience are not just policies—they are engines of opportunity that empower families, businesses, and the entire region.’
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No tsunami threat after morning earthquake
A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 on the Richter scale rattled the eastern Caribbean region early Monday morning. The seismic event occurred at approximately 8:39 a.m., with its epicenter located in the Atlantic Ocean northeast of Barbados, as reported by the Barbados Meteorological Services. Although some residents in Barbados experienced mild tremors, officials have assured the public that there is no immediate danger or tsunami threat. Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and continue with their daily routines while staying informed through official channels for any further updates. The swift response and clear communication from local agencies have helped mitigate potential concerns, ensuring that the situation remains under control.
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Two St Michael men to face court on separate murder charges
Two men from St Michael, Barbados, are set to appear in court on Monday, each facing distinct murder charges. Hassan Alessandro Hazell-Grant, a 22-year-old resident of Jessamine Avenue, Bayville, is accused of the fatal shooting of Akil Hinds on October 6, along with the unlawful use of a firearm on the same day. In a separate case, Akeeme Livingston McDonald, aged 21 and residing in Lewis Gap, Green Hill, has been charged with the murder of Kenardo Woolery, which occurred on October 19. Hazell-Grant is scheduled to present his case in the District ‘A’ Criminal Court, while McDonald will appear before the Oistins Magistrates’ Court. These proceedings highlight the ongoing legal efforts to address violent crimes in the region.
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Leaders urged to serve with humility and faith
At the 85th Barbados Labour Party (BLP) Annual Conference held at Queen’s Park on Sunday, Bishop Marlon Jones delivered a powerful sermon emphasizing the sacred nature of leadership and the importance of humility, sincerity, and compassion in public service. Addressing party members and delegates, Bishop Jones underscored that leadership is not a pursuit of personal gain but a divine calling rooted in service to the nation. He reflected on the BLP’s 87-year history, reminding attendees of the party’s enduring commitment to care and service. ‘You have a calling; the calling is for labour to serve,’ he declared, urging members to uphold the mandate of their predecessors. The bishop highlighted that responsibility extends beyond top leaders to every individual within the organization, emphasizing unity and collective effort. He likened public service to standing ‘on the battlefields of life,’ where criticism and sacrifice are inevitable. ‘When you enter the public arena, you expose yourself, but you cannot turn back,’ he cautioned. Bishop Jones also acknowledged the loneliness that can accompany leadership, encouraging leaders to draw strength from faith. ‘Lean upon God; sometimes you must stand alone, but God will not leave you,’ he advised. Concluding his sermon, he called for compassion across political and social divides, urging the congregation to support their leaders. He reminded all present that true greatness lies not in power but in serving others with humility and empathy.