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  • Alpha Academy’s robotics team shines at FTC Jamaica National Robotics Championship

    Alpha Academy’s robotics team shines at FTC Jamaica National Robotics Championship

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Demonstrating remarkable initiative and technical prowess, the Convent of Mercy Academy ‘Alpha’ robotics team achieved a stunning performance at the prestigious First Tech Challenge (FTC) Jamaica National Robotics Championship. Operating without a dedicated coach, the team distinguished itself through exceptional innovation, collaborative spirit, and STEM leadership on a national platform.

    Entering the competition as underdogs, Team Alpha forged a strategic alliance with the American International School in Kingston. This partnership proved highly effective, allowing them to outperform several favored teams. Their impressive run was ultimately halted only in the championship finals by the combined force of Meadowbrook High and Wolmer’s Boys High School.

    Team captain Julianne Campbell expressed astonishment at their success. “It was a surprise even to us,” Campbell revealed. “At the season’s outset, we were novices in robotics. We faced numerous challenges and established three modest goals: to rank in the top ten, then the top five, and finally, to win any award. Despite persistent technical issues on competition day, our scores consistently improved round after round, propelling us unexpectedly into the semi-finals and alliance selections.”

    The absence of a coach necessitated a unique and self-reliant preparation strategy. Campbell elaborated on their methodology: “Without a coach, we begin each season by setting clear objectives. We meticulously track our progress against these goals in the subsequent weeks. When encountering complex problems, we proactively seek mentorship from other institutions. This season, we received invaluable guidance from Team Circle of Wolmer’s Boys and technical assistance from Dunoon Tech.”

    Principal Kali McMorris highlighted the achievement as a natural extension of the school’s educational philosophy. “Ours is a STEAM-focused institution [Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics],” McMorris stated. “Our robust IT department has consistently cultivated students skilled in coding and design. We are committed to empowering our students to pioneer the ethical development of technological tools that will benefit our nation.”

    Now, the nine-member squad—comprising seven engineers and two programmers—is setting its sights on future accolades. Campbell outlined her ambitious vision: “My goal for the club extends beyond training the next generation of robotics enthusiasts. I want the team to consistently reach the championship stage after successfully navigating the regional qualifiers in Jamaica. Furthermore, we aim to compete for prestigious awards like the Inspire Award.”

    The Inspire Award recognizes teams that demonstrate holistic excellence, not only in robot design and construction but also in community outreach and gracious professionalism by sharing knowledge with peers.

    This promising team receives steadfast support from the Alpha Alumnae Florida Chapter. The chapter will host its ‘Beyond the Stars’ fundraiser on Saturday, March 14, to bolster STEM initiatives and other academic and extracurricular programs at the school.

    Kerry-Ann Brown, president of the alumnae chapter, framed the team’s accomplishment in a broader context. “This achievement by the robotics team is more than a trophy,” Brown said. “It is a powerful reminder of what is possible when young women are equipped with opportunity, resources, and unwavering support.”

  • Stella Global Realty to host “Sip and See” wealth summit

    Stella Global Realty to host “Sip and See” wealth summit

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Stella Global Realty Ltd is poised to host an innovative wealth creation summit titled ‘Sip & See’ from March 27-29 at the Paradisiac venue in Richmond. The event, orchestrated by author and brokerage owner Tiffany Gray, aims to revolutionize property investment perspectives across the Jamaican diaspora.

    Gray characterized the intensive preparations as a ‘masterclass in Stella speed,’ emphasizing the event’s meticulously planned execution. ‘When our guests arrive at Paradisiac, they won’t merely attend a property viewing—they’ll witness the crystallization of their financial future,’ Gray stated. The undertaking reflects her belief that transformative achievements demand extraordinary effort, noting her satisfaction stems from creating an enduring legacy.

    The summit specifically targets dismantling perceived barriers within Jamaica’s real estate landscape. Gray articulated her mission to replace ‘remittance anxiety with wealth synchronization’ by debunking ownership myths and eliminating procedural delays. Her vision enables investors—whether joining from London or Kingston—to depart with both confidence in securing Jamaican properties and sophisticated wealth-building strategies.

    Registration trends indicate strong interest from overseas Jamaicans, particularly across the United States and United Kingdom. This follows the company’s productive 2025 initiatives that included community rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Melissa.

    Looking toward 2026, Gray announced plans to establish ‘educational authority’ in real estate investment. ‘Our mandate is democratizing wealth building through property,’ she explained. ‘We’re transitioning dreamers into strategists by providing data-driven tools that transform hard-earned capital into sustainable, high-yield legacies.’

    The three-day summit is offered at US$99, with early registrants qualifying for discounts exceeding 50%. Prospective attendees can enroll via stellaglobalrealty.com’s events section, social media channels @stellaglobalrealtyja, or by direct phone consultation at 876-671-7379.

  • Holmwood Technical finding its stride after the storm

    Holmwood Technical finding its stride after the storm

    In a remarkable display of resilience, Holmwood Technical High School’s track team emerged victorious at the 20th annual Burger King 5K & Relay in Kingston, Jamaica, despite facing severe challenges from Hurricane Melissa that damaged their school’s girls’ dormitory five months earlier.

    The journey to the starting line was fraught with obstacles for the renowned track program. Head Coach Dave Anderson revealed the profound impact on both training schedules and student morale following the hurricane devastation. ‘Our team was significantly affected, particularly our female athletes whose living quarters were damaged,’ Anderson explained, noting recovery had been ‘slow but steady.’

    Event organizers recognized Holmwood’s two-decade loyalty to the competition and intervened with crucial sponsorship covering transportation, meals, and entry fees. This support proved instrumental in enabling the team to compete for the event’s enhanced prize pool, which reached a record J$2 million this year.

    The 20th anniversary edition featured a strategic expansion, welcoming corporate teams, gyms, and running clubs alongside traditional school competitors. This diversification more than doubled participation compared to previous years, creating unexpectedly fierce competition.

    Despite these challenges and the disadvantage of a late-season schedule that prevented some top runners from participating, Holmwood Technical achieved outstanding results. The team secured multiple victories including first and third places in female categories, claimed the female team championship title, and earned second place in the male team division.

    For team vice-captain Florence Nafamba, the event represented more than financial rewards. ‘This is a tremendous opportunity and support system for our school,’ she emphasized. ‘It allows us to achieve personal bests and enhance our training program.’

    Burger King Jamaica executive Rashai Graham reaffirmed the company’s commitment to youth sports development, stating: ‘We’re proud to sponsor remarkable schools like Holmwood Technical. Despite their circumstances, their determination and grit helped them emerge victorious. Their achievements demonstrate that with strong community support, young people can overcome and succeed.’

    As the event concluded at Emancipation Park, Coach Anderson expressed gratitude for the partnership that transformed a athletic competition into a symbol of recovery and hope for the hurricane-affected students.

  • War in the Middle East: latest developments

    War in the Middle East: latest developments

    The Middle East conflict entered a dangerous new phase on Thursday with multi-front military engagements and significant geopolitical ramifications. Israeli forces conducted targeted strikes against Basij paramilitary checkpoints in Tehran, explicitly aiming to disrupt the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ operational control. Concurrently, Israel expanded its offensive in Lebanon, advancing beyond the Zahrani River while issuing evacuation orders to civilians. Beirut sustained continued bombardment, with AFPTV footage documenting dark smoke rising over the Bashoura district.

    Iran’s leadership demonstrated unwavering resolve, with Security Chief Ali Larijani vowing on social media platform X that combat operations would continue until the United States expressed remorse for its military actions. New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reinforced this stance by ordering the continued closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz while urging regional powers to shutter American military installations.

    The economic consequences reached critical levels as the International Energy Agency declared the conflict has created “the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market.” Current production deficits exceed 8 million barrels of crude oil daily, with an additional 2 million barrels of petroleum products offline, primarily due to Iran’s stranglehold on regional supply routes.

    Humanitarian concerns mounted as the UN refugee agency reported approximately 3.2 million internally displaced persons within Iran since hostilities began nearly two weeks ago. Lebanese authorities reported rising casualties, with at least 687 fatalities recorded since March 2 following a seafront strike in Beirut that killed eight civilians.

    The International Maritime Organization announced emergency talks to address shipping security threats, particularly in the Hormuz Strait, where the US military acknowledged insufficient resources to escort tankers through the critical waterway. Despite the escalating crisis, President Trump prioritized nuclear non-proliferation over oil market stability in his public statements.

  • Boom Energy Drink returns as official sponsor of the 2026 All Star Sound Clash

    Boom Energy Drink returns as official sponsor of the 2026 All Star Sound Clash

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant boost for Jamaica’s vibrant music scene, Boom Energy Drink has reaffirmed its sponsorship of the prestigious All Star Sound Clash through 2026, cementing its role in preserving and promoting authentic sound system culture.

    The decade-old competition, recognized as a pivotal platform for both emerging and established sound systems, continues to demonstrate its cultural significance within the dancehall community. Founded by renowned music producers Author ‘Author Wale’ Amos and Anthony ‘New Kid’ Bennett, the event evolved from weekly gatherings to a competitive showcase that has become instrumental in defining musical excellence.

    Following a pandemic-induced hiatus, the clash triumphantly returned in 2023, resuming its mission to highlight artistic creativity, lyrical prowess, and audience engagement. The competition has served as a launching pad for numerous sound systems that have since achieved legendary status, including Bass Odyssey, Fire Links, Ricky Trooper, and Likkle Shabba.

    The international reach of sound system culture is reflected in past participants from Japan (Yaad Beat), New York City (King Addies), Canada (Rebel Tone), and Africa (Dynamic), demonstrating the event’s global influence.

    The 2026 edition will unfold across eleven weeks of intense musical competition, featuring confirmed participants High Grade International, Super Solid Sound, Red Heat Sound System, Top Class Sound, Sound Revolution, Code Red Sound, and Game Changers.

    Co-founder Anthony Bennett emphasized the long-term vision: ‘We’re building an enduring cultural institution. Our aspiration is for the All Star Sound Clash to become synonymous with sound system culture worldwide. Boom Energy’s continued partnership represents a perfect alignment of values and energy.’

    Kadechah Henry, Marketing Coordinator for Boom Energy Drink, confirmed the brand’s commitment: ‘We champion events where cultural expression and creativity converge. This clash embodies the essence of sound system culture while providing crucial exposure for both new and established talents.’

    With a grand prize of one million Jamaican dollars and additional sectional awards, the Boom Energy-sponsored competition promises electrifying performances and unforgettable musical moments throughout its eleven-week run.

    The events will take place Thursdays at 11:00 PM at All Star HQ, 153 Olympic Way, Kingston 20, offering patrons an authentic experience of Jamaica’s rich sound system tradition.

  • WATCH: Two drivers injured in three-vehicle crash in Central Village

    WATCH: Two drivers injured in three-vehicle crash in Central Village

    A significant traffic disruption unfolded on the Mandela Highway in Central Village, St. Catherine, during Thursday’s morning commute following a serious three-vehicle collision. The incident, which occurred shortly after 6:00 a.m., involved a stationary Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) bus, which was struck from behind by a Suzuki motor car. The impact of the initial collision subsequently caused the Suzuki to collide with a second vehicle of the same make.

    The force of the crash resulted in two motorists sustaining injuries severe enough to require immediate hospital transport. Medical authorities have not yet released information regarding their current conditions, leaving the severity of their injuries unknown.

    The aftermath of the collision created a substantial eastbound traffic pile-up extending through the Chinatown area of Central Village. The congestion significantly hampered the flow of the morning rush hour, prompting an official response from local law enforcement.

    The St. Catherine police division has issued a public advisory, strongly urging motorists to exercise extreme caution when approaching the affected area. Authorities are recommending that drivers seek alternative routes to bypass the incident scene entirely while emergency crews and traffic investigators continue their work at the location.

    Further updates on the situation, including the official cause of the accident and the condition of those injured, are expected to follow as the investigation progresses.

  • Four ITA hubs to close early on Friday

    Four ITA hubs to close early on Friday

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Island Traffic Authority (ITA) has announced modified operational schedules for four of its service centers this Friday, March 13, to accommodate an internal organizational event. The affected locations—Morant Bay, Harbour View, Swallowfield, and Spanish Town Road service hubs—will conclude operations at 1:00 pm, significantly earlier than standard closing times.

    In an official communication, the ITA expressed regret for potential disruptions caused by these adjusted hours and advised patrons to adjust their visitation plans to avoid inconvenience. The authority emphasized that regular services will fully resume at all facilities beginning Monday, March 16, at 8:30 am, following the conclusion of the internal staff activity.

    This temporary scheduling change reflects the ITA’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency through dedicated staff development initiatives. While the early closure may affect some users requiring afternoon services, the move demonstrates the organization’s commitment to internal capacity building and administrative coordination.

  • Budget Debate: Tax on sugary drinks will not result in healthier choices – Robinson

    Budget Debate: Tax on sugary drinks will not result in healthier choices – Robinson

    During the 2026-2027 Budget Debate at Gordon House on Tuesday, Opposition Finance Spokesman Julian Robinson launched a substantive critique against the government’s newly proposed tax on non-alcoholic sugary beverages. While acknowledging the serious public health concerns surrounding excessive sugar consumption, Robinson fundamentally questioned whether the fiscal measure would achieve its stated objective of curbing diabetes and obesity rates.

    Robinson articulated that the core flaw in the policy lies in its economic impact on consumer behavior. He argued that imposing a tax simply increases the cost of all beverages, making healthier alternatives—already priced at a premium—even less accessible to the average Jamaican. This, he contended, fails to address the root of the problem. Instead of weaning citizens off sugar, the tax may merely place a heavier financial burden on those who can least afford it, without reducing their sugar intake.

    Proposing an alternative pathway, the Opposition Spokesman insisted the government possesses a more direct and effective regulatory tool: mandating manufacturers to reformulate their products. By requiring a reduction in sugar content within a defined timeframe, the administration could directly limit the amount of sugar consumed by the populace, an action Robinson stated is well within the government’s existing legal authority.

    The critique centers on the government’s chosen policy mechanism, suggesting that a tax is a revenue-generation tool misrepresented as a health intervention. Robinson’s analysis concludes that without affordable and accessible healthy alternatives, the levy will miss its public health target, leaving Jamaica’s pressing sugar consumption issue unresolved.

  • Turkey talking to US, Iran in bid to end war

    Turkey talking to US, Iran in bid to end war

    ANKARA — Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced on Thursday that Ankara is engaged in high-stakes diplomatic communications with both Washington and Tehran in a concerted effort to de-escalate the intensifying Middle Eastern conflict, now entering its thirteenth day of hostilities.

    Speaking at a joint press conference with German counterpart Johann Wadephul, Fidan characterized the current phase as representing “the most intense moments of the war” while emphasizing Turkey’s commitment to facilitating negotiations. “The fundamental question remains: what possibilities exist for meaningful negotiation, and to what extent can diplomacy prevail?” Fidan posed during the briefing.

    The Foreign Minister explicitly condemned the initial strike against Iran as “both unjust and unlawful,” while simultaneously criticizing Iran’s subsequent retaliatory actions against Gulf nations. The conflict originated on February 28 following coordinated U.S.-Israeli operations against Iranian targets, which triggered widespread Iranian retaliation across the region.

    Fidan reported that Turkey has maintained “intensive” diplomatic engagement since the conflict’s inception aimed at conflict resolution. Echoing this urgency, Minister Wadephul emphasized the immediate priority must be “preventing further escalation” before addressing long-term regional security architecture.

    Additionally, Fidan issued strong condemnation of Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon, noting the displacement of approximately one million civilians and warning of potential state collapse. “Israel’s offensive operations must cease before the complete disintegration of Lebanese governance structures,” Fidan stated, highlighting the catastrophic regional implications of such collapse.

    The Lebanon theater emerged following Hezbollah’s retaliation against Israel for the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in initial strikes. Lebanese authorities report Israeli counteroperations have resulted in over 687 fatalities and the registration of more than 800,000 displaced persons.

    Addressing humanitarian concerns, Minister Wadephul acknowledged Turkey’s prudent preparation for potential refugee flows from Iran while noting no significant movements have yet materialized. “We share a common interest in preventing such population displacements,” Wadephul affirmed, referencing Turkey’s previous experience during the Syrian civil war.

  • Budget Debate: What’s happening with NaRRA?

    Budget Debate: What’s happening with NaRRA?

    Jamaica’s post-hurricane reconstruction efforts face mounting scrutiny as Opposition Finance Spokesman Julian Robinson raises critical questions about the government’s proposed recovery vehicle. During Thursday’s Budget Debate, Robinson challenged the operational status of the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA), the central agency Prime Minister Andrew Holness promised would lead rebuilding initiatives.

    The opposition spokesman highlighted concerning delays in establishing NaRRA’s legal framework, noting that no legislation has been presented to Parliament to formally constitute the authority. This absence of legal foundation leaves the public without clarity regarding the agency’s operational mechanisms, specific functions, or implementation timeline.

    Robinson emphasized the urgency of moving beyond announcements to actionable plans, particularly given the widespread devastation across western Jamaica. He acknowledged the importance of the government’s $10 billion ROOF Grant program but declared it “simply insufficient” to address the scale of destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa.

    The Member of Parliament for St Andrew South Eastern detailed the extensive impact across multiple parishes, including severe damage in Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, St James, Hanover, Trelawny, St Ann, Clarendon, and Manchester. Nearly five months after the hurricane, thousands of Jamaicans remain without adequate shelter, raising urgent questions about the government’s comprehensive response strategy for long-term housing solutions.