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  • Troupe: Confidentiality fears driving students away from guidance counsellors

    Troupe: Confidentiality fears driving students away from guidance counsellors

    Jamaica’s education system faces a persistent challenge in overcoming student reluctance to utilize guidance counselling services, according to Dr. Kasan Troupe, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information. Speaking at Thursday’s Education Transformation Oversight Committee quarterly briefing at Shortwood Teachers’ College, Dr. Troupe identified deeply entrenched trust issues stemming from misconceptions about confidentiality as the primary barrier.

    The official, drawing from her nine years of experience as a guidance counsellor at The Queen’s School, provided candid insights during a session prompted by a student’s question from Immaculate Conception High School. Dr. Troupe acknowledged the profession has long struggled with perceptions of trustworthiness while explaining the complex ethical dilemmas counsellors face.

    A critical misunderstanding revolves around the non-absolute nature of confidentiality in counselling relationships. Dr. Troupe clarified that guidance professionals operate within strict ethical boundaries that sometimes require disclosure—particularly when students express intentions of self-harm or pose safety concerns. “When a student reveals plans to hurt themselves,” she explained, “the counsellor assumes an additional responsibility to engage other stakeholders for protection purposes. While this may appear as a confidentiality breach, it constitutes a professional obligation.”

    The Ministry recognizes that traditional counselling approaches don’t suit all students, especially those uncomfortable with face-to-face adult conversations. In response, education authorities are developing complementary support structures including enhanced peer-to-peer counselling frameworks and student-led initiatives that operate alongside professional services.

    Dr. Troupe vigorously defended the competence and dedication of practising school counsellors, emphasizing that existing distrust reflects systemic misunderstandings rather than professional inadequacy. The Ministry continues to work toward multidimensional support systems that address both psychological needs and privacy concerns within Jamaica’s educational institutions.

  • Police searching for person of interest in praedial larceny case

    Police searching for person of interest in praedial larceny case

    Law enforcement officials in St. Mary, Jamaica have intensified their search for a local farmer identified as a crucial person of interest in multiple agricultural theft investigations. The Area 2 Agricultural Protection Branch (APB) has formally named 37-year-old Ricardo Bonner, also known by the alias ‘Tenna’, as someone who may possess vital information regarding recent praedial larceny incidents plaguing the parish.

    Bonner, a resident of Arthur Lane in Annotto Bay, is urgently being asked to present himself voluntarily to the Area 2 APB headquarters to assist detectives with their ongoing criminal investigations. The agricultural thefts, which have targeted local farmers’ livelihoods, form part of a broader pattern of farm-related crimes affecting rural communities across the parish.

    Authorities have mobilized public assistance efforts, requesting that anyone with knowledge of Bonner’s current whereabouts immediately contact specialized investigators at 658-219-2063. Alternative reporting channels include the national police emergency hotline at 119 or any nearby police station. The APB’s public appeal underscores the seriousness with which Jamaican authorities are treating agricultural crime, particularly given its devastating impact on farming communities and national food security.

    This development occurs within Jamaica’s broader context of combating praedial larceny, which remains a persistent challenge affecting agricultural productivity and economic stability. The specialized Agricultural Protection Branch continues to employ targeted strategies to address these crimes that disproportionately affect small-scale farmers and agricultural enterprises across the island.

  • #Champs2026: Wolmer’s Girls’ Natrece East takes Class 2 sprint double

    #Champs2026: Wolmer’s Girls’ Natrece East takes Class 2 sprint double

    The National Stadium in Kingston witnessed a spectacular display of young athletic prowess on Saturday during the final day of the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. The spotlight shone brightly on the girls’ sprint events, where new champions emerged across multiple age classes.

    Natrece East of Wolmer’s Girls’ School secured a highly coveted sprint double in the Class 2 category. Following her earlier success, East dominated the 200m final, clocking a winning time of 23.54 seconds into a headwind of -1.2m/s. This victory positioned her alongside Holland High’s Shanoya Douglas, who achieved an exceptional Class 1 double and shattered the national Under-20 record in the process.

    The Class 2 podium was completed by Edwin Allen High’s Sashana Johnson, who captured the silver medal with a time of 23.65 seconds, adding to her silver from the 400m. Priscilla Johnson of The Queens School earned the bronze medal, finishing in 24.18 seconds.

    In the Class 3 event, Veneisha Pottinger of Mt Alvernia High showcased remarkable resilience. After a disappointing fourth-place finish in the 100m, the COCAA Western Champs gold medallist bounced back emphatically to claim the 200m title in 24.55 seconds. She finished ahead of Knox College’s Tawaina Marston (24.75 seconds) and Edwin Allen’s multi-talented Tashana Godfrey, the 80m hurdles champion, who took third in 24.89 seconds.

    The Class 4 final was conquered by Vere Technical’s Omeikia Shepherd, who posted a swift 22.57 seconds despite facing a strong headwind of -1.9m/s. She secured the gold medal ahead of Hydel High’s Reneka Reid (25.32 seconds) and Niesha Campbell of Edwin Allen, who completed the race in 25.49 seconds.

  • JWN, Xodus ready to thrill for 2026 Carnival

    JWN, Xodus ready to thrill for 2026 Carnival

    The strategic alliance between beverage giant Campari and premier event organizer Dream Entertainment Limited continues to flourish as they launch their fourth consecutive Carnival partnership in Jamaica. Communications Manager Dominic Bell of J Wray & Nephew Limited (Campari’s local subsidiary) characterized the ongoing collaboration with Xodus Carnival as evidence of sustained mutual growth and brand development.

    Bell emphasized that Xodus represents the largest Carnival band in Jamaica, providing Campari with an ideal platform to engage consumers while showcasing the brand’s identity as cool, confident, and sensual within festive environments. The partnership was celebrated at the recent Campari Mixology Experience & Lime event held at the company’s New Kingston headquarters, where specially invited partners enjoyed live musical performances by Laing D, interactive games, and expertly crafted mixed drinks.

    According to Bell, the gathering served as both a relationship-building opportunity and an educational platform for media representatives and influencers to learn about Campari’s signature Carnival offerings. These include Campari Grapefruit, Campari Orange, and the locally favored Rumpari cocktail. The company emphasized responsible consumption practices alongside mixology demonstrations.

    Scott Dunn, Group Managing Director of Dream Entertainment Limited, described the Campari-Xodus collaboration as a ‘power couple’ pairing that consistently delivers maximum results. He noted that Carnival embodies beautiful women, premium drinks, and exceptional entertainment—elements both brands combine to create Jamaica’s most premium week of events.

    This year’s Xodus Carnival adopts the ‘OlympiX’ theme and features an expanded calendar for the 2026 season. The lineup includes the return of Xodus Wet on Easter Monday, Lost in Paradise, Bacchanal J’Ouvert, alongside signature events like Xodus Fete Gala, Xodus Tailgate, and Xodus Remedy. Dunn expressed particular excitement about launching Carnival Week with the Campari Xodus Wet Music Festival, featuring performances by artist Voice and extensive brand activations.

    Dunn attributed Xodus’s continued success to dedicated teamwork and constant innovation, noting that while patrons see the final glory, they rarely witness the extensive preparation behind the scenes. The partnership exemplifies how alcohol brands and entertainment providers can create synergistic relationships that enhance consumer experiences while driving commercial objectives.

  • More than 40 gang members killed this year — Haitian police

    More than 40 gang members killed this year — Haitian police

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – The Haitian National Police (PNH) has released operational results revealing substantial progress in its campaign against armed gangs during the first quarter of the year. According to official statistics, security forces eliminated 43 gang members across 32 separate operations conducted in three key departments of the crisis-stricken nation.

    The comprehensive police operations yielded significant weapons confiscations, including 46 rifles, 19 pistols, six surveillance drones, and over 10,659 rounds of ammunition. Law enforcement authorities also reported seizing five communication radios, multiple Molotov cocktails, and two armored vehicles previously used by criminal elements.

    This disclosure comes amid heightened international scrutiny of Haiti’s security situation. The United Nations Human Rights Council recently convened to address the escalating crisis, with gangs systematically employing starvation tactics and extortion against the civilian population. According to data from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), gang-related violence has resulted in at least 5,500 fatalities and 2,600 injuries between March 2025 and January 2026.

    Disturbingly, UN reports indicate that 65% of these casualties occurred during security operations targeting gang members, with more than 20% of victims—including children—being struck by stray bullets in their homes or public spaces. Criminal organizations now control substantial portions of the capital city and are expanding their influence into suburban areas and northern regions including the Artibonite and Centre departments.

    In a separate operation codenamed ‘Goudougoudou,’ the Central Directorate of the Judicial Police (DCPJ) achieved additional breakthroughs. The operation resulted in 50 prosecutions—including 11 women—and the seizure of 76 kilograms of cocaine and marijuana alongside significant cash reserves and 10 vehicles. Authorities successfully freed one hostage unharmed and fatally wounded seven armed criminals during the mission, which dismantled the criminal network led by Rodolphe ‘Chalè’ Louissaint.

    In related developments, immigration authorities faced internal corruption allegations with the arrest of 10 officials from the General Directorate of Immigration and Emigration. These suspects were transferred to the Port-au-Prince Prosecutor’s Office for interrogation regarding their alleged participation in a counterfeit passport distribution network.

  • #Champs2026: William Knibb’s Seymore makes amends with boys Class 1 200m win

    #Champs2026: William Knibb’s Seymore makes amends with boys Class 1 200m win

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a stunning display of resilience, Sanjay Seymore of William Knibb Memorial High School clinched victory in the boys’ Class 1 200-meter final on Saturday, successfully defending his title at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. The event, held at the National Stadium, marked the climax of the prestigious national competition.

    Facing formidable headwinds measuring -4.2 meters per second, Seymore powered through to cross the finish line in 21.14 seconds. His triumph was narrowly secured against fierce competition from Jamaica College’s Makaelan Woods, who finished closely behind at 21.22 seconds, and Kingston College’s Kyle Bodden, who took bronze with 21.33 seconds.

    The championships witnessed several remarkable performances across different classes. Kingston College athletes dominated the Class 2 final, capturing both gold and silver medals. Similarly, Wolmer’s Boys School achieved a one-two finish in the Class 3 category, demonstrating exceptional team strength.

    Jason Pitter emerged as another standout performer, completing an impressive 200m/400m double victory. He claimed the Class 2 gold with a strategically run 21.03 seconds despite facing -1.8m/s headwinds, outpacing his teammate Emmile Higgins who finished in 21.52 seconds. Mario Ross of Wolmer’s secured third place with 21.56 seconds.

    Adding to the day’s highlights, Wolmer’s Boys’ Ajani Lumley achieved the sprint double by adding the 200m gold to his 100m victory. Lumley clocked 22.20 seconds against headwinds of -2.6m/s, outperforming teammate Joshua McWilliams who earned his second silver medal with 22.41 seconds. Jamaica College’s DeAndre Parker completed the podium with a time of 22.65 seconds.

  • Siblings target javelin glory

    Siblings target javelin glory

    A compelling narrative of familial inspiration and athletic rivalry is set to unfold at the National Stadium as 16-year-old Devaune Freemantle of Vere Technical prepares for the boys’ javelin open final at the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships. The young athlete draws immediate motivation from his sister, Ramona Freemantle, who secured a silver medal in the girls’ javelin event just yesterday.

    The sibling athletes from Ocho Rios, St. Ann, maintain a healthy competitive dynamic while consistently supporting each other’s athletic endeavors. Devaune openly acknowledges following his sister’s path into track and field, recently achieving a personal breakthrough by surpassing the 40-meter mark. His aspiration to medal in today’s competition mirrors his sister’s accomplishment.

    Ramona’s journey to javelin success demonstrates remarkable adaptability. Initially pursuing sprinting where she demonstrated considerable speed, she transitioned to throwing events following an injury setback upon recommendation from a former coach at Vere Technical. This strategic shift has yielded significant results—besides her javelin silver medal, she placed fourth in the Class 1 girls’ discus throw with a distance of 45.79 meters.

    Thursday’s javelin final presented a dramatic contest where Ramona led for extended periods before being narrowly defeated by Immaculate Conception’s Zoelle Jamel on countback after both athletes recorded identical throws of 45.09 meters. This silver medal represents Ramona’s second Champs podium appearance, improving upon her bronze medal performance from the previous year.

    As the athletic spotlight turns to her younger brother, Ramona will be among the spectators, wearing her newly won silver medal and cheering for Devaune to achieve podium success while contributing valuable points to Vere Technical’s overall championship tally.

  • Anti-Trump protests launch on ‘No Kings’ day in US

    Anti-Trump protests launch on ‘No Kings’ day in US

    MINNEAPOLIS (AFP) — Millions of demonstrators mobilized across the United States and international cities on Saturday in the third major wave of “No Kings” protests, expressing profound opposition to President Donald Trump’s governance style and recent foreign policy decisions. The movement, which has evolved into the most visible resistance force since Trump’s second term began in January 2025, now directs its outrage toward the administration’s joint military campaign with Israel against Iran, characterized by ambiguous objectives and fluctuating timelines.

    The protests transcended U.S. borders with coordinated demonstrations in European capitals including Amsterdam, Madrid, and Rome. Domestic rallies manifested from Atlanta to Washington, where participants braved sub-freezing temperatures in Michigan and marched across Potomac River bridges bearing signs declaring “Trump Must Go Now!” and “Fight Fascism.” One Atlanta protester’s placard captured the movement’s central anxiety: “We Are Losing Our Democracy.”

    Organizers reported planning over 3,000 events nationwide, including in remote locations like Kotzebue, Alaska, above the Arctic Circle. Minnesota emerged as a symbolic epicenter months after becoming the focal point of national debates surrounding Trump’s immigration policies. The state witnessed legendary musician Bruce Springsteen performing his protest ballad “Streets of Minneapolis” in St. Paul, commemorating two citizens killed during January immigration protests.

    The movement has demonstrated substantial growth since its inception on Trump’s 79th birthday in June 2025, when several million Americans protested during the president’s military parade. October’s demonstrations drew approximately seven million participants according to organizers, who aimed to exceed those numbers amid Trump’s sub-40% approval ratings and impending midterm elections.

    Naveed Shah of Common Defense, a veterans association aligned with the movement, articulated the protesters’ concerns: “This administration has dragged us deeper into war while citizens face militarized forces domestically. Families are torn apart and immigrant communities targeted—all in service of one man ruling like a king.” Critics cite Trump’s governance through executive decrees, weaponization of the Justice Department, climate change denial, dismantling of diversity initiatives, and abandonment of non-interventionist foreign policy as key grievances.

    Notably, organizers indicate that approximately two-thirds of Saturday’s protesters reside outside major urban centers—a significant increase from previous demonstrations suggesting the movement’s expanding geographical diversity.

  • BGA calls for collective action to safeguard women and girls across Jamaica

    BGA calls for collective action to safeguard women and girls across Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Bureau of Gender Affairs (BGA) is accelerating its nationwide initiative to combat gender-based violence and advance gender equality through comprehensive community engagement, legislative reform, and policy education. Under the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the agency is strengthening protective measures for women and girls while expanding critical support services.

    Principal Director Sharon Coburn Robinson emphasized the Bureau’s unwavering commitment to creating environments where women and girls feel both secure and heard. The BGA’s multifaceted approach includes operating dedicated helplines for gender-based violence victims, deploying community liaison teams, and conducting targeted sensitization programs across parishes.

    “Our helpline serves as a vital lifeline for those in need,” stated Coburn-Robinson. “Through our Community Liaison Unit and social workers, we maintain direct presence within communities, providing support and education when it matters most.”

    The Bureau’s community outreach extends to raising awareness about significant observances such as the International Day for Rural Women, while simultaneously promoting understanding of national legislation year-round. Coburn-Robinson highlighted that community participation remains fundamental to their strategy, aligning with the National Policy for Gender Equality’s principle of inclusive engagement.

    Significant legislative advancements are currently underway, including the comprehensive review of the Domestic Violence Act. The Bureau is also intensifying implementation efforts for the Sexual Harassment Protection and Prevention Act, ensuring the newly established Sexual Harassment Tribunal delivers accessible and equitable justice for complainants.

    Coburn-Robinson pointed to successful community protection models like the Clarendon Inter-Parish Network as exemplary frameworks for other parishes to emulate. She encouraged nationwide adoption of similar community-led safety initiatives that emphasize networking, dialogue, and collective vigilance.

    Addressing all Jamaican citizens, the Principal Director issued a powerful call to action: “We all share responsibility as our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Report any suspicious activities, foster strong community partnerships, and collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies.”

    She envisioned building a society free from discrimination, harm, and exploitation where future generations can safely exercise their rights. The GBV Helpline Unit, established in 2023, continues to provide essential support to victims, survivors, and witnesses of gender-based violence through dedicated telephone services: 876-553-0372 and 876-236-1713 for women, and 876-553-0387 for men.

  • ZIMI Seh Beach takes over Puerto Seco on Sunday

    ZIMI Seh Beach takes over Puerto Seco on Sunday

    In a strategic expansion beyond its established Best Weekend Ever series, ZIMI Entertainment is launching a standalone beach extravaganza at Puerto Seco Beach Club this Sunday. This marks the brand’s first independent beach event since 2022, produced in collaboration with logistics powerhouse Main Event Entertainment Limited.

    Nicholas Mahfood, Director of ZIMI Entertainment, revealed the event will feature innovative aquatic staging with performance platforms and cabanas situated directly in the water. The food-inclusive experience promises to deliver the same high-energy atmosphere and quality execution that has become synonymous with the ZIMI brand.

    The partnership with Main Event represents a calculated growth strategy for the entertainment brand. Mahfood emphasized this expansion mirrors the successful evolution of their other properties: ZIMI Seh Road (2016), ZIMI Seh Riva (2017), and ZIMI Seh Brunch (2018). This aquatic event follows their groundbreaking brunch event at Caymanas Park last January.

    Patrick Scott, Production Manager at Main Event Entertainment, highlighted the technical complexities of producing such events, noting that building stages in open water requires highly trained crews and rigorous safety protocols. The company’s twenty-year logistics expertise provides the foundation for delivering world-class experiences.

    The collaboration emerged after Main Event’s successful venture into production with last May’s Jamaica Auto Show. Mahfood indicated Sunday’s event might feature surprise celebrity appearances, reminiscent of Skippa and Skillibeng’s cameos at last December’s ZIMI Seh Riva event.

    This production sets the stage for ZIMI’s traditional August 9th beach event within the Independence celebration series, demonstrating the brand’s continued innovation in Jamaica’s entertainment landscape.