In a heartfelt address following World Teachers Day on October 3, Education Minister Octavia Alfred underscored the indispensable role of teachers in the success of educational reform and technological advancement. She emphasized that no matter how ambitious policies or modern infrastructure may be, the true catalysts of change are the educators who stand at the forefront of classrooms every day. ‘It is you, our teachers, who turn policy into practice, transform curriculum into life experiences, and shape students into not just future workers but responsible citizens today,’ Alfred stated. She acknowledged the evolving global education landscape, driven by digital learning, the demand for new skills, and pressing social and environmental challenges. Despite these complexities, teachers worldwide are adapting to new technologies, addressing diverse learning needs, and tackling social issues, often with limited resources. Alfred praised their resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment, calling them role models of dedication and sacrifice. She also highlighted the distinction between technology and human connection, noting that while AI can process data, only teachers can inspire understanding, instill values, and nurture empathy. Alfred reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to supporting teachers through enhanced training, professional development, and fair recognition, stating that true educational transformation begins with the human touch of educators.
标签： Dominica
多米尼克
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Dominica and Barbados sign MOU to advance sustainable tourism
In a landmark move to bolster their tourism sectors, the governments of Dominica and Barbados have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing the allure of both destinations and crafting innovative vacation experiences for international travelers. The agreement was officially sealed at the Hilton Barbados Resort during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), a key regional event dedicated to advancing tourism development.
Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), unveiled the partnership, underscoring its strategic importance. ‘Through this MOU, Dominica and Barbados, via their respective tourism marketing entities—the Discover Dominica Authority and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.—are taking a significant step to amplify their appeal, promote sustainable tourism, and create novel travel experiences,’ Williams remarked.
The MOU establishes a collaborative framework focused on joint marketing efforts, knowledge exchange, and enhancing the visitor experience across both nations. Williams highlighted the agreement’s timely nature, coinciding with rising interest in Caribbean travel from major markets such as Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Latin America. ‘This partnership is particularly opportune as the Caribbean continues to draw travelers seeking diverse and enriching experiences,’ she noted.
To ensure the MOU’s effective execution, a joint working group will be formed to oversee the development of a detailed action plan. ‘The group will monitor progress, provide biannual updates, optimize strategies as needed, and ensure that both nations reap economic benefits,’ Williams explained.
Williams also emphasized the broader regional implications of the agreement, connecting it to the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s ‘Re-imagine Tourism’ initiative. ‘Dominica and Barbados will serve as exemplars of unity, embodying the ‘one sea, one voice, one Caribbean’ ethos through this collaboration,’ she concluded.
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Dominica Cooperative Societies League placed under administrative supervision
The Dominica Cooperative Societies League Limited (DCSLL) has been placed under administrative supervision by the Office of the Registrar for Cooperatives, effective October 1, 2025. This decision, officially communicated to members, creditors, and the public, is intended to stabilize the League and enable a comprehensive review of its operations. The Registrar’s Office emphasized that this intervention is crucial for ensuring the League’s long-term stability and adherence to good governance principles.
As part of the supervisory measures, the League’s Board of Directors has been suspended. Additionally, the League’s Manager, who had previously tendered his resignation effective January 1, 2026, has been placed on administrative leave. Ms. Annel Lewis has been appointed as the Administrator and will oversee the Society’s daily operations and management. All correspondence and inquiries regarding the League’s affairs should now be directed to Ms. Lewis at (767) 225-3531.
The Registrar’s Office has reassured the public that this action is in the best interest of the League and its members, underscoring its commitment to the health and sustainability of Dominica’s cooperative sector. Further updates are anticipated as the administrative review progresses.
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WAA and Prevo Cinemall launch major art exhibition for Creolé Season 2025
The Waitukubuli Artist Association (WAA), in partnership with Prevo Cinemall, has unveiled a groundbreaking addition to Dominica’s Creolé Season festivities: a dynamic art exhibition titled *Paradise of Colours and Expressions*. Scheduled to run from October 10 to November 14, 2025, at the historic Prevo Cinemall in Roseau, the showcase will highlight the creative works of 23 Dominican artists across diverse mediums, including painting, photography, and poetry. The event is timed to align with Dominica’s Independence and Creolé Season celebrations, aiming to honor the island’s cultural heritage.
According to WAA Public Relations Officer Ms. Aileen Joseph, the exhibition is a tribute to Dominica’s rich history, with rhythm, language, and tradition reimagined through contemporary art. “This is our first exhibition centered on the theme of Cultural Heritage, celebrating the essence of who we are as a people,” she explained. The event follows the success of *Echoes of Resilience*, a 2024 collaboration between WAA and Prevo Cinemall that attracted over 700 visitors and sparked demand for a repeat.
Ms. Joseph emphasized that the exhibition will transform the Prevo Cinemall into a living canvas, where art and tradition converge to narrate Dominica’s story. Prevo Cinemall General Manager Ms. Vanessa Prevost praised the artists for their exceptional work, noting that *Echoes of Resilience* met international standards and showcased the island’s artistic talent. She also reflected on the legacy of the late Earl Darius Ettiene, a distinguished Dominican artist whose mentorship continues to inspire.
*Paradise of Colours and Expressions* promises an immersive experience, blending storytelling, placemaking, and remembrance. “Color here is more than pigment—it represents identity, resilience, and celebration,” Ms. Joseph remarked. “This paradise is rooted in our heritage, not in escape.” A special event, *Lyrics Under the Stars*, will be held on October 11, 2025, adding a poetic dimension to the exhibition.
The exhibition is free and open to the public, with viewing hours from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Contributions are encouraged, and both locals and visitors are invited to support Dominican artistry.
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DSWMC updates drop-off hours for white goods and metal waste at Fond Cole Landfill
The Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC) has revised the operating hours for accepting white goods, derelict galvanize, and other metal items at the Fond Cole Landfill. Initially, the landfill was set to receive these materials from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, a new update issued on Monday now restricts the acceptance window to 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the same weekdays. White goods, which include large household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, are a significant focus of this policy change. Earlier this year, the landfill temporarily halted the acceptance of such items following a fire on June 30, which caused thick smoke to affect nearby communities. During that period, the landfill only processed general waste. Rhoda St. John, the DSWMC Public Relations Officer, emphasized the importance of responsible waste management and encouraged the public to adhere to the updated guidelines. For further inquiries, residents can contact the DSWMC at 449-8168 or 616-0035.
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West Indies all-rounder Bernard Julien dies at 75
Bernard Julien, the celebrated West Indies all-rounder and a key figure in the team’s triumph at the inaugural Cricket World Cup in 1975, has passed away at the age of 75. Julien’s illustrious career spanned 36 matches for the West Indies, including 24 Test caps, where he scored 866 runs at an average of 30.92 and took 50 wickets. In One-Day Internationals (ODIs), he claimed 18 wickets at an impressive average of 25.72. Known for his left-arm swing bowling and composed batting, Julien played a pivotal role in the 1975 World Cup, delivering standout performances against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Australia in the final at Lord’s. Cricket West Indies paid tribute to Julien, emphasizing his enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on the sport. Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies, highlighted Julien’s calm temperament and thoughtful approach to the game, which were instrumental in the team’s success. Julien’s career also included a stint with Kent County Cricket Club from 1970 to 1977, where he made significant contributions, helping the team secure multiple trophies. Kent Cricket remembered him as one of the most effective left-arm swing bowlers of his generation. Julien’s passing marks the end of an era for cricket, but his contributions to the sport will continue to inspire future generations.
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OP-ED: Big Tobacco calls it harm reduction, Caribbean youth calls it profiting from addiction
The Caribbean has become a focal point for lobbying efforts by groups such as the World Vapers’ Alliance, Smoke Free Sweden, and We Are Innovation, as the region is strategically targeted to weaken tobacco control measures ahead of the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). These campaigns, supported by tobacco and related industries, promote electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products as ‘harm reduction’ tools, despite evidence highlighting their risks, particularly for youth. Recent articles and social media campaigns in Barbados and Trinidad have attempted to frame these products as safe, ignoring their addictive nature and uncertain long-term health impacts. Nicotine, a key component of these products, is highly addictive and linked to cardiovascular disease, cancers, and impaired brain development in adolescents. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the tobacco industry is using these products to undermine public health policies while aggressively marketing them to children and non-smokers. Dr. Arthur Phillips, Deputy Chief Medical Officer in Barbados, emphasized the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States to the long-term costs of tobacco and nicotine addiction. The Barbados National NCD Commission has also highlighted the rise of vaping as a serious threat, particularly to youth, who are targeted with sweet flavors and bright packaging. Caribbean governments, as parties to the WHO FCTC, must resist industry interference and defend evidence-based tobacco control policies. Mrs. Barbara McGaw of the Heart Foundation of Jamaica urged governments to act urgently, applying WHO’s MPOWER package to counter the spread of electronic nicotine delivery systems. Youth e-cigarette use in the region is alarming, with rates as high as 17.2% in Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Asante LeBlanc of the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society emphasized the importance of campaigns like ‘Clear the Air’ to protect youth from nicotine addiction. As a youth tobacco control advocate, Dorial Quintyne, MPH, called for Caribbean governments to unite at COP11, reject industry interference, and champion effective tobacco control measures.
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Dominican art takes center stage in upcoming solo exhibitions at Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel (updated)
Dominica’s leading hospitality destinations, Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, are set to host solo exhibitions by renowned Dominican artists, showcasing their dedication to fostering local culture and artistic expression. At Secret Bay’s Bwa Denn gallery, internationally acclaimed artist Heston Francis will present his latest exhibition, *Roots: My Story to Tell*, from October 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026. The collection explores themes of identity, heritage, and the deep connection between people and place, offering a profoundly personal visual narrative. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the exhibition invites both locals and visitors to experience Dominica’s essence through Francis’ unique artistic perspective. Simultaneously, Fort Young Hotel’s Old Oven Art Gallery will feature *Salt and Soul*, a solo exhibition by Marica Honeychurch, running from October 20, 2025, to January 26, 2026. Honeychurch’s work celebrates the island’s traditions and cultural resilience, aiming to preserve and share the island’s rich heritage. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to Dominica’s cultural identity. Aaron Hamilton, Curator of the Art Galleries, emphasized that these exhibitions highlight Dominica’s contemporary artistic talent while aligning with the resorts’ mission to promote the island’s vibrant culture. Both exhibitions are open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to engage with Dominican art in iconic settings. Secret Bay, a Relais & Châteaux property, is celebrated for its luxurious, eco-friendly villas and breathtaking Caribbean Sea views, while Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, located in Roseau, provides guests with immersive cultural and natural experiences. For more information, visit www.secretbay.dm or contact Fort Young Hotel at 767-448-5000.
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Solo exhibitions of Dominican art to take center stage at Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel
Dominica’s leading hospitality destinations, Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, are set to host solo art exhibitions that highlight the island’s cultural richness and contemporary artistic prowess. These events aim to showcase the works of two renowned Dominican artists, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s heritage and creative spirit.
At Secret Bay’s Bwa Denn gallery, internationally acclaimed artist Heston Francis will present his exhibition, *Roots: My Story to Tell*, from October 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026. The exhibition explores themes of identity, heritage, and the intrinsic bond between individuals and their environment. Francis’s unique artistic perspective weaves personal narratives with national pride, creating a compelling visual journey. The gallery welcomes the public daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, Fort Young Hotel’s Old Oven Art Gallery will feature *Salt and Soul*, a solo exhibition by Marica Honeychurch, running from October 8, 2025, to January 26, 2026. Honeychurch’s work celebrates Dominica’s enduring traditions and cultural legacy, emphasizing the importance of preserving and sharing the island’s unique identity. The exhibition is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Aaron Hamilton, Curator of the Art Galleries, remarked, ‘These exhibitions not only honor two of Dominica’s most talented contemporary artists but also align with our mission to spotlight the island’s vibrant culture and creativity.’ Both exhibitions are accessible to hotel guests and the general public, providing an immersive experience in two of Dominica’s most iconic settings.
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Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles to receive Kompa Recognition Award at 2026 Haitian Music Awards
Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles, Dominica’s Cultural Ambassador and a staunch advocate for Creole heritage, has been selected as a Recognition Award Recipient at the 10th Annual Haitian Music Awards (PHMA). The prestigious event is set to take place on January 10, 2026, at the Lipman Performing Arts Theater in North Miami Beach, Florida. Charles will receive the Kompa Recognition Award, a testament to his over four decades of dedication to cultural exchange and the promotion of Creole traditions. His efforts have significantly strengthened the cultural ties between Dominica and the Haitian kompa community, fostering a shared appreciation for Creole rhythms and heritage. ‘I am elated and deeply honored to receive this recognition,’ Charles expressed. ‘This award symbolizes a journey of unity, connecting Dominica and Haiti through music, language, and our shared cultural identity.’ The PHMA is a premier event that celebrates excellence in Haitian music and culture, honoring artists and cultural leaders who have made substantial contributions to the global promotion of Haitian music, particularly the kompa genre. Charles joins an esteemed group of honorees, including Robel Shalu of Top Vice, Cubano of Scat, DP Express, Jacot Serge Rochelle of Schlesler, Tat Lacoll, and other kompa legends. Throughout his career, Charles has been a pivotal figure in bridging Dominica and the Haitian community. He has served as the Public Relations Officer of the Dominica Haitian Association, promoted Haitian Flag Day in Dominica, and spearheaded initiatives that celebrate Creole language, music, and identity across the Caribbean and its diaspora. His work with Creole Heartbeat, the World Creole Music Festival, and various cultural collaborations has amplified Creole culture on a global scale. ‘I extend my heartfelt thanks to Kirby Lavier and the PHMA Committee, the City of North Miami Beach, committee members, cultural leaders, Francisole and Wanikoli, WCMF, DBS Radio, and the Creole family in Dominica, Martinique, and Guadeloupe who have walked this journey with me,’ Charles added. As he prepares to accept this accolade, Charles remains steadfast in his mission to unite Creole communities through music, language, and cultural pride. The PHMA, founded to honor excellence in Haitian music, has become a cornerstone of cultural celebration for Haitian communities across the Americas and beyond.