标签： Dominica

The Dominica America Scholarship and Culture, Inc. (DASCI) has officially launched its scholarship application cycle for the 2026-2027 academic year, targeting primary school graduates across Dominica who require financial support for their transition to secondary education.

This nonprofit initiative, established in 2007 by a collective of dedicated Dominicans, has designated sixteen primary institutions for participation in this year’s program. The selected schools include Coulibistrie, Goodwill, Mahaut, Massacre, Roseau, Salisbury, St. Martin, St. Mary’s, Convent Prep, Berean Christian Academy, Campbell, Pioneer Prep, Ebenezer SDA, Kelleb Laurent Primary, Western District SDA, and Christian Union.

DASCI has confirmed the availability of a minimum of thirty scholarships for qualified students demonstrating financial need and meeting specific eligibility requirements. The application deadline has been set for May 1, 2026, with submissions accepted through both electronic mail and traditional postal services.

School principals from participating institutions have been formally notified of the program and will play a crucial role in facilitating student applications. This collaborative approach ensures that deserving candidates receive proper guidance throughout the application process.

Since its foundation, DASCI has demonstrated remarkable commitment to educational advancement, having distributed 162 scholarships totaling approximately US$106,950 (EC$288,165). The organization employs a rotational selection system for participating schools, guaranteeing equitable access to opportunities across different educational institutions over time.

Patricia David, President of DASCI, reaffirmed the organization’s mission: “Our members and supporters remain deeply motivated and committed to supporting students in need through these educational initiatives.”

Prospective applicants can obtain detailed information and access application materials through DASCI’s official online portal, which provides comprehensive guidance on eligibility criteria and submission requirements.

In a proactive move to address rising educational concerns, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has intensified its community outreach initiatives. On January 28, 2026, officers from the Community-Oriented Policing Unit attended a Parent-Teacher Association meeting at Newtown Primary School, marking a significant step in fostering collaborative security efforts.

Corporal Dion Moses, representing the CDPF, delivered a compelling address to parents highlighting critical challenges facing educational institutions. He emphasized the alarming escalation of school violence, bullying incidents, and disciplinary issues requiring immediate attention. The corporal outlined the indispensable role of parental guidance in shaping positive student behavior and academic outcomes.

Moses advocated for enhanced parental involvement in children’s daily lives, urging families to establish stronger emotional connections to better understand youth experiences. He specifically cautioned against confrontational approaches toward educators, stating, “Parents should refrain from entering school premises to engage in quarrels or heated arguments with teachers.” Instead, he recommended resolving disputes through formal channels and respectful dialogue.

The police force reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to partnering with educational stakeholders to create secure and nurturing learning environments. This initiative forms part of broader national efforts to strengthen community-police relationships while addressing systemic issues affecting youth development.

The CDPF’s statement concluded with a powerful call to action: “Through collective responsibility and sustained cooperation, we can build safer schools and more resilient communities for future generations.”

Dominica’s law enforcement authorities have issued stringent warnings ahead of the upcoming Carnival celebrations, emphasizing a uncompromising stance against public safety violations. Deputy Police Chief Jeoffrey James, speaking during the ‘Disaster and You’ program on state-owned Radio DBS, outlined specific security measures that will be rigorously enforced throughout the festival period.

The senior police official clarified that the designated Carnival route through Roseau—established by ministerial order under Statutory Rules and Regulations—will be strictly protected against unauthorized vehicle access. ‘Any individual found cycling, riding, or operating motor vehicles within the official Carnival perimeter will be committing a criminal offense,’ James stated. ‘This constitutes a significant danger to both participants and operators themselves, and consequently will not be tolerated under any circumstances.’

James emphasized that public familiarity with the published route details creates an expectation of compliance, noting that violators will face immediate legal consequences. The police strategy extends beyond traffic control to encompass broader public safety concerns, with explicit prohibitions against fireworks, weapons, and disorderly conduct.

The enforcement framework will involve rapid response to any criminal activities, with offenders facing expedited processing through magistrate’s courts. While the primary Carnival route remains substantially unchanged from previous years—running from Independence Street at Kennedy Avenue to King George V Street, then proceeding along Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard between the National Bank of Dominica and Issa Trading Limited—authorities acknowledge potential minor adjustments might be implemented.

This comprehensive security approach reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining the Carnival’s tradition while ensuring participant safety through strict regulatory enforcement and public awareness campaigns.

The Dominica Community Tourism Association will honor three laureates from La Salette Agricultural and Industrial University (LAIU) today for their winning contributions to the organization’s second annual essay competition. The ceremony, scheduled for 3:30 PM at the LAIU Clubhouse, celebrates student excellence in addressing this year’s critical theme: ‘Our Rivers, Their Contribution to Community and Tourism Development.’

In an official audio statement, the Association—which serves as the primary body for community-based tourism groups nationwide—expressed profound concern regarding the deteriorating condition of Dominica’s river systems. While acknowledging the island’s remarkable natural endowment of approximately 365 rivers, which earned it the moniker ‘Nature Isle,’ the organization warned that these aquatic treasures face insufficient protection and preservation efforts.

Rivers constitute the lifeblood of Dominican society, the Association emphasized, providing indispensable economic, environmental, and social benefits. These waterways sustain livelihoods, drive tourism revenue through attractions like the renowned Emerald Pool, and serve as hubs for community gatherings and recreational activities.

However, escalating threats from littering and pollution jeopardize river health and long-term sustainability. The Association identifies environmental degradation as a direct challenge to its core mission, prompting intensified advocacy for public awareness campaigns and stronger legislative safeguards.

By engaging youth through academic competitions, the organization aims to cultivate environmental stewardship among younger generations. This community-driven initiative aligns with global conservation movements, including World Rivers Day, underscoring the universal importance of watershed protection.

The Association extended appreciation to all sponsors and participants while encouraging continued student involvement in future competitions. This event reflects its broader commitment to integrating environmental preservation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism development as interconnected pillars of national progress.