In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica in October, experts are emphasizing the critical need for counselling interventions for both teachers and students, particularly at the early childhood level. Professor Zoyah Kinkead-Clark, a leading figure in early childhood care and education at The University of the West Indies (The UWI), has highlighted the immense challenges faced by educators and children as they return to classrooms. She stressed that trauma and psychosocial issues severely hinder learning, making it imperative to address these concerns promptly. Kinkead-Clark, who also manages the Dudley Grant Early Childhood Resource Centre, pointed out that many teachers are themselves grappling with trauma, yet are expected to support their students. With over 700 schools reopened and efforts underway to minimize disruptions to education, the lack of guidance counsellors at the early childhood level has further complicated the situation. Teachers are now tasked with providing psychosocial assistance to students, even as they navigate their own struggles. Kinkead-Clark shared harrowing accounts from educators, including those living in shelters or dealing with significant personal losses. While some progress has been made in prioritizing early childhood education, she emphasized that the sector remains under-resourced. To address these challenges, The UWI School of Education, the Early Childhood Commission, Jamaica National Foundation, and the Dudley Grant Early Childhood Resource Centre are hosting a regional colloquium. The event aims to develop actionable strategies for disaster recovery and strengthen support systems for the sector. The colloquium, taking place at The UWI Regional Headquarters in Mona, St Andrew, will bring together policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders to chart a path forward.
标签： Jamaica
牙买加
-
Lethal virus hits Brazil’s last wild blue macaws featured in film ‘Rio’
A devastating viral outbreak has struck the world’s only reintroduced population of wild Spix’s macaws in Brazil, threatening to derail decades of conservation efforts for the critically endangered species. Brazilian conservation authorities confirmed Thursday that all surviving members of the recently reintroduced blue parrot population have tested positive for a lethal and incurable circovirus.
The outbreak represents a catastrophic setback for the ambitious rewilding program that returned the iconic birds to their native Caatinga habitat in northeastern Brazil—25 years after they were declared extinct in the wild. The species, immortalized in the 2011 animated film ‘Rio,’ is considered one of the planet’s rarest avian species.
According to Brazil’s Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio), approximately 20 Spix’s macaws imported from Germany in 2020 had been released into their natural habitat, with only 11 surviving until recent weeks. All remaining birds in the wild population have now contracted beak and feather disease, a fatal condition caused by circovirus that typically proves lethal in psittacine birds.
Additionally, 21 birds still housed at the BlueSky breeding center in Bahia state have tested positive for the virus. Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin of the outbreak, though authorities confirm the pathogen poses no risk to human health.
The conservation effort has been fraught with international controversy. Brazil terminated its partnership with the German Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (ACTP) in 2024 after the organization sold 26 birds to a private Indian zoo without authorization. Brazil has repeatedly raised concerns at CITES meetings about regulatory loopholes enabling the sale of captive-bred Spix’s macaws, which fuels demand that originally drove the species to extinction through habitat loss and collector trafficking.
ICMBio has levied a 1.8 million reais ($336,000) fine against the BlueSky breeding center for biosafety protocol failures. Inspectors documented severely contaminated bird feeders encrusted with feces and inadequate protective measures among staff handling the endangered birds.
-
COP30 a mixed bag, says Samuda
Matthew Samuda, Jamaica’s Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, has voiced profound disappointment with the results of the 30th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30), held in Belém, Brazil. Leading Jamaica’s delegation, Samuda criticized the conference for failing to address the escalating global climate crisis with the urgency it demands. Speaking at a virtual press conference titled ‘Islands, the climate finance gap, and COP30 reflections,’ Samuda highlighted the severe impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, as a stark reminder of the devastation caused by extreme weather events. He emphasized that the lack of commitment from major global carbon-emitting nations has exacerbated the challenges faced by vulnerable countries like Jamaica. Samuda pointed out that Jamaica has endured record-breaking heatwaves, droughts, and storms in recent years, underscoring the tangible effects of climate change. While he acknowledged some positive developments at COP30, such as the progress on the Loss and Damage Fund and Brazil’s Tropical Forest Forever initiative, Samuda stressed that these efforts fall short of the transformative action needed. He expressed hope that Jamaica would receive targeted funding to rebuild with greater resilience, but reiterated that the global community must take the plight of small island nations more seriously.
-
Jamaica to get healthcare boost with arrival of Chinese naval hospital ship — Tufton
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant development for hurricane-stricken Jamaica, the Chinese naval hospital ship Silk Road Ark has arrived in Jamaican waters, bringing substantial medical reinforcement to the Caribbean nation. The vessel, carrying 104 specialized medical personnel, represents a major international effort to support Jamaica’s healthcare system following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.
Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, confirmed the ship’s arrival during a Thursday press briefing, noting that the medical vessel reached Jamaican territorial waters on November 22 and is currently stationed at Pedro Keys. The ship is scheduled to relocate to Falmouth Pier during the upcoming weekend, where it will begin operations.
The medical contingent aboard includes 60 physicians, 32 nursing professionals, pharmaceutical experts, and technical staff, creating a comprehensive healthcare delivery capability. Dr. Tufton emphasized that this infusion of medical expertise will significantly enhance Jamaica’s capacity to provide critical healthcare services during the recovery period.
Minister Tufton expressed profound gratitude to the Chinese government for their timely assistance, stating: “This medical floating vessel, complete with personnel and equipment, represents exactly the type of support we need as we work to rebuild our healthcare infrastructure. The Office of the Chief Medical Officer is coordinating with the Chinese medical team to develop the most effective approach for patient treatment and clinical support.”
The Chinese medical mission joins similar efforts from multiple nations including the United Kingdom, United States, India, Spain, and Israel, all of which have dispatched medical teams to assist Jamaica in its post-hurricane recovery. This collective international response highlights the global solidarity in addressing the healthcare challenges posed by natural disasters in the Caribbean region.
-
Rainforest Salmon & Ackee Quiche
Chef Samantha George’s Salmon & Ackee Quiche is a culinary masterpiece designed for those moments when you want to slow down and create something truly special. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a light lunch, this dish is a testament to the art of cooking with care and intention. Every step, from searing the salmon to blind-baking the crust, is a labor of love, resulting in a rich, delicate, and deeply satisfying quiche that speaks volumes about the power of food as an expression of love.\n\nThe recipe begins with a homemade tart crust, crafted from cold butter, all-purpose flour, and a touch of egg and water. The dough is rolled out, blind-baked, and set aside to cool, ensuring a perfectly crisp base. The filling features a harmonious blend of pan-seared Rainforest salmon, canned ackee, sautéed mixed vegetables, and a hint of garlic, all seasoned with an all-purpose spice blend. A creamy custard, made from eggs and whole milk, ties the ingredients together, while grated cheddar cheese adds a layer of richness.\n\nOnce assembled, the quiche is baked until the custard is set and the top is golden. The final touch? A layer of smoked salmon and fresh scallions, adding both flavor and visual appeal. Served warm or at room temperature, this quiche is a showstopper, ideal for sharing with loved ones on special occasions.\n\nServing Size: 6–8 slices\nServes: 6 as a main, 8 as a side or brunch plate
-
Excessive heat predicted for upcoming dry season in Barbados
BASSETERRE, St Kitts – Climate scientists are issuing urgent warnings about the Caribbean’s upcoming dry season, projecting unprecedented heat stress that will severely test the region’s infrastructure and population. Dr. Cedric Van Meerbeeck, a prominent climatologist at the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology, presented a sobering assessment during the 2025 Dry Season Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum, indicating that the period from December 2025 through May 2026 will create substantial challenges across multiple sectors.
The forecast indicates that the traditional dry season will be characterized by excessive heat with limited cooling periods, creating conditions that will significantly impact agricultural productivity, public health systems, and tourism operations. The most critical period is expected during April and May 2026, when temperatures are projected to reach their peak intensity.
A significant complicating factor involves Sahara dust patterns, which scientists cannot yet accurately predict. This atmospheric dust absorbs moisture and creates stable inversion layers that suppress rainfall, potentially exacerbating drought conditions throughout the region. Particular concern exists for the Windward Islands, including Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where drought-like conditions are anticipated.
The health implications are particularly alarming, with projections indicating increased hospital visits due to heat-related illnesses, water-borne diseases, and respiratory conditions. The absence of nighttime cooling will prevent natural temperature recovery, leading to cumulative physical fatigue and heightened vulnerability among populations with pre-existing health conditions.
While December 2025 through February 2026 may offer some respite with relatively comfortable temperatures, this period will still be warmer than historical averages. The transition into April and May will feature rapid warming trends, making heat waves increasingly probable. Vulnerable populations and livestock will face escalating risks as the season progresses, with heat stress episodes expected to become more frequent and intense toward the season’s conclusion.
-
Guyana launches workplace national gender equality and empowerment seal
In a groundbreaking move, Guyana has introduced the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal, becoming the first Caribbean nation to implement such an initiative. This program is designed to foster safe, inclusive, and equitable work environments across both public and private sectors.
-
JLP scraps annual conference for 2025
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In an unprecedented move signaling a shift from decades of political tradition, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has officially called off its scheduled 2025 Annual Conference. The decision emerged from a unanimous vote during the party’s Standing Committee assembly on November 18, as confirmed by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, Chairman of the JLP Communication Taskforce.
The resolution will proceed to the JLP’s Central Executive for final ratification at their December 7 convening. This marks the first cancellation of the party’s hallmark November event in recent history, breaking with customary political gatherings that typically serve as platforms for policy announcements and membership mobilization.
Senior party representatives emphasize that this strategic reallocation of resources stems from the urgent need to address Jamaica’s recovery trajectory in Hurricane Melissa’s aftermath. The catastrophic weather event inflicted substantial damage across the island nation, compelling a unified governmental and societal response.
Rather than channeling funds and organizational energy into conference preparations, the JLP will pivot全部 focus toward disaster relief initiatives, infrastructure rehabilitation, and community support programs. The party’s leadership asserts that national rebuilding efforts must take precedence over political ceremonies during this critical recovery period, demonstrating institutional adaptability in times of crisis.
-
Preemie Foundation to stage inaugural Pedal & Stroll charity 5K on Sunday
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Preemie Foundation of Jamaica is gearing up to host its first-ever Pedal & Stroll — Cycle, Run, Walk for Preemies 5K event on Sunday, November 30, at the Hope Zoo in St Andrew. The event, designed to support premature babies and hurricane relief efforts, will kick off at 6:00 am with a warm-up session led by Body By Kurt Fitness. Participants, including cyclists, runners, and walkers, will embark on a 5K looped course around the Hope Zoo walking trail, with each participant receiving a commemorative medal upon completion.
Serika Sterling, founder and chairwoman of the Preemie Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, ‘We are thrilled to bring our supporters together for a meaningful morning dedicated to Jamaica’s preemies.’ The event aims to raise funds for the Special Care Nursery at Princess Margaret Hospital, a critical facility for neonatal care. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will be directed to Mandeville Regional Hospital to aid recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
Sterling emphasized the foundation’s commitment to addressing the ongoing challenges faced by families and healthcare facilities in the aftermath of the hurricane. ‘Many communities and hospitals are still grappling with the effects of Hurricane Melissa. Supporting Mandeville Regional Hospital allows us to address immediate needs while reinforcing our broader mission of healthcare resilience,’ she explained.
The Pedal & Stroll initiative was first announced in September at the Toyota Jamaica showroom and is being organized in collaboration with the Jamaica Cycling Federation, which is overseeing the cycling component of the event. Beyond the race, attendees can participate in a cool-down session and contribute to hurricane relief efforts by donating non-perishable food items and clothing for babies and children. The foundation encourages patrons to bring these items to the event to support ongoing recovery initiatives.
-
MLSS deepens partnership with World Food Programme to boost post-Hurricane relief
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant escalation of disaster response capabilities, Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) has deepened its strategic partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP) to address widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. This reinforced collaboration marks a critical phase in the nation’s recovery trajectory.
The revitalized alliance features a comprehensive WFP proposal to deliver essential support to approximately 200,000 Jamaican citizens over a three-month duration. This ambitious initiative, valued at an estimated US$30 million, encompasses multi-faceted assistance including nutritional aid, financial support, logistical coordination, and emergency telecommunications infrastructure.
Current distribution efforts have successfully delivered 24,500 specialized food kits across severely impacted parishes including St Elizabeth, St James, Trelawny, and Westmoreland. Each nutritionally balanced kit provides sustenance for a three-person household throughout one week. With operational capabilities expanding, the WFP has outlined plans to reach an additional 46,000 beneficiaries in the immediate future.
Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr emphasized the transformative impact of this partnership, noting substantially enhanced capabilities for real-time needs assessment and rapid response coordination. The integration with Jamaica’s advanced Household Disaster Impact and Needs Assessment (JHDINA) digital platform has been particularly instrumental, facilitating 22,340 detailed household evaluations to guide data-driven resource allocation.
The collaboration has additionally enabled comprehensive evaluation of the MLSS Community Feedback Mechanism, identifying operational gaps and implementing improvements to better serve hurricane-affected communities. This systematic approach has strengthened government-led accountability frameworks, ensuring transparent assistance distribution to the most vulnerable populations.
Substantial material support has been provided through the WFP’s contribution of critical operational assets including transport trucks, power generators, forklifts, modular storage units, pallet systems, and specialized sector equipment. Strategic establishment of seven emergency staging areas in key locations such as Montego Bay, Kingston, and Black River has created a network for rapid deployment of relief supplies to affected regions.
Brian Bogart, Representative for the WFP Caribbean Office, confirmed the organization’s sustained engagement throughout the crisis timeline. “The WFP maintained full commitment to supporting national emergency response protocols even prior to Hurricane Melissa’s landfall. Our operations are fully embedded within national systems to ensure multilateral support aligns precisely with Government of Jamaica priorities,” Bogart stated.
Current achievements include emergency food kit distribution to over 35,000 vulnerable individuals, with preparations underway to double this reach within coming days. Collective efforts between MLSS, WFP, and the Jamaica Defence Force have distributed 59,320 food packages nationwide, leveraging WFP’s logistical expertise, supply chain management, and digital assessment technologies.
Both organizations have formally reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining support throughout Jamaica’s ongoing recovery process, demonstrating unprecedented cooperation in post-disaster rehabilitation efforts.