KINGSTON, Jamaica — Professor Lincoln Edwards, President of Northern Caribbean University (NCU), has proposed a groundbreaking collaboration between the Jamaican government and churches to transform religious spaces into vibrant learning hubs. Speaking at the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) Industry/Academics Conference 2025 on October 1, Professor Edwards emphasized the potential of these centers to engage youth in technology and prepare them for future challenges.
标签： Jamaica
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Unity Singers upbeat over second Sterling Gospel Music Awards nomination
For nearly two decades, The Unity Singers have been a beacon of gospel music, spreading their message across Jamaica and beyond. This year, the group has earned its second nomination for Group of the Year at the prestigious Sterling Gospel Music Awards, a testament to their unwavering dedication to their ministry. Shane Haslam, CEO of Unity Singers Ministry, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that the nomination reaffirms their commitment to their divine calling, regardless of the outcome. The group, comprising talented sopranos, altos, tenors, keyboardists, drummers, and bass players, has remained a non-denominational force, drawing members from diverse church backgrounds such as Apostolic, Pentecostal, Church of God, and Tabernacle ministries. Over the years, The Unity Singers have performed at major concerts, national events, and international tours, sharing stages with renowned gospel artists like Rhoda Isabella and Marion Hall. Their journey, marked by spiritual growth and musical excellence, has resulted in seven original songs, including recent hits like ‘Redeem Praise Medley.’ The group’s inception in 2005 was inspired by a vision of unity and divine purpose, and despite a brief hiatus, their ministry was revived in 2007, flourishing under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Unity Singers’ mission remains centered on transforming lives through the power of gospel music, fostering fellowship, and sharing testimonies. As they prepare for the Sterling Gospel Music Awards this Saturday, they stand alongside other nominees, including Levy’s Heritage and Genesis Praise Squad, in a celebration of gospel music’s impact and influence.
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Caribbean audiobook app to bring regional literary works to life
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Odiyo, the Caribbean’s trailblazing digital audiobook platform, has struck a landmark deal to acquire audio rights to five distinguished titles from the renowned independent publisher Akashic Books. This collaboration will breathe new life into works by some of the most influential voices in Caribbean and diaspora literature, including two novels by the late Jamaican literary icon Anthony Winkler. The selected titles are: *The Tower of the Antilles* by Achy Obejas, *My Own Dear People* by Dwight Thompson, *God Carlos* by Anthony Winkler, *The Family Mansion* by Anthony Winkler, and *Watch Out for Falling Iguanas* by Edwidge Danticat. Johnny Temple, CEO of Akashic Books, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, ‘We are thrilled to see these extraordinary works find new life in audio through Odiyo. The Caribbean’s literary tradition is rich, diverse, and deserving of wider access. Odiyo’s commitment to amplifying regional voices makes them the perfect partner for these titles.’ Anthony Winkler, celebrated for his globally acclaimed novel *The Lunatic*, remains a cherished figure in Jamaican literature. This agreement ensures that *God Carlos* and *The Family Mansion* will be available in audio for the first time, preserving Winkler’s signature wit, historical depth, and uniquely Jamaican narrative style for future generations. Lesley-Ann Wanliss, Odiyo’s head of acquisitions, emphasized the cultural significance of the deal, noting, ‘These are important works, not just for their literary merit, but for the way they capture and preserve the Caribbean’s voice and history. This partnership began through our shared mission with Akashic Books to make underrepresented stories accessible to more listeners. For Odiyo users, it means the ability to experience these narratives in an intimate and dynamic way, whether they’re discovering them for the first time or revisiting them in a new format.’ This acquisition underscores Odiyo’s ongoing efforts to expand its curated collection of Caribbean literature in audio form, solidifying its position as a global advocate for regional storytelling.
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Campari unveils new bottle design
Campari has unveiled a striking new bottle design, marking its first significant packaging overhaul in years. The revamped bottle features a sleek, modern silhouette with intricate engravings inspired by Milan’s iconic Duomo cathedral, blending the brand’s contemporary vision with its deep Italian heritage. Dominique Bell, communications manager at JWray & Nephew Limited, emphasized that this redesign is more than just a cosmetic update. ‘This new Campari bottle represents a lifestyle moment,’ Bell stated. ‘It’s bold, fresh, and transforms any space it enters. Campari has always dared to stand out in the entertainment scene, and this design amplifies that spirit. We believe it will spark confidence, inspire new connections, and reshape the way people experience Campari. This is a fresh drop for those who dare to be bold, different, and unapologetically themselves.’ The company confirmed that the product inside remains unchanged, and the redesign comes at no additional cost to consumers. Key features include a champagne-gold cap, an embossed Campari logo, and the founder’s signature. Bell explained that the redesign was driven by the need to modernize while staying true to the brand’s roots. ‘The iconic Milanese landmark, Il Duomo, inspired the bottle’s engraved detailing, a nod to the city that birthed Campari,’ she said. The updated packaging will be rolled out globally, with localized marketing campaigns in regions like Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. ‘This is a global initiative with local adaptations,’ Bell added. ‘Each element was chosen to root the brand in Milanese heritage while elevating its tactile, visual, and cultural appeal, solidifying Campari as a modern, sensual icon.’
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‘Reluctant’ truck driver returns to the stand in Maitland murder trial
In a dramatic turn of events at the Home Circuit Court in Kingston, Jamaica, a visibly frustrated delivery truck driver was summoned back to the witness stand on Wednesday in the ongoing murder trial of Constable Noel Maitland. The driver’s testimony aimed to clarify crucial details surrounding the mysterious disappearance of 24-year-old Donna-Lee Donaldson, a social media influencer, on July 12, 2022. Donaldson was last seen at the Chelsea Manor Apartments in St. Andrew, where Maitland resided at the time. Maitland faces charges of murder and obstructing the lawful burial of a corpse in connection with Donaldson’s case.
During the court proceedings, audio recordings of conversations between Maitland and the truck driver were played. The recordings, made by the driver after police seized his truck, revealed a tense exchange. The driver had picked up a settee from Maitland’s apartment and transported it to a carwash on Lyndhurst Road in St. Andrew, as per Maitland’s request. In the recordings, the driver expressed his frustration over the seizure of his truck, questioning Maitland about the situation. Maitland, seemingly puzzled, inquired why the police had taken the vehicle, to which the driver responded, “How me fi know? Police took the truck and all kinds of things.”
The driver repeatedly emphasized his desire to avoid involvement in any suspicious activities, stating, “Mi nuh want nobody involve me in no form of thing. I’m a big man who works hard. This thing is getting out of hand.” Maitland, however, appeared to dismiss the driver’s concerns, even laughing when the witness struggled to recall his correct name. Before leaving the courtroom, the driver expressed his exhaustion with the legal proceedings, telling the prosecution, “Mi tired a oonuh now,” and highlighting the negative impact on his business. The trial is set to resume on Tuesday.
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JTB and Wingo welcome first direct flights from Colombia to MoBay
In a groundbreaking move to bolster tourism and strengthen ties with Latin America, the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), in collaboration with Wingo Airlines, Corona, and Hyatt Hotels, welcomed two ‘mystery flights’ from Colombia to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay on Thursday. This event marked the beginning of a new chapter in connectivity between Jamaica and Colombia.
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Ghana raises cocoa prices following Ivory Coast hike
In a significant move to support its agricultural sector, Ghana has announced a 12.3% increase in the price paid to cocoa farmers, raising the rate from 3,228.75 to 3,625 cedis ($257 to $289) per 64-kilogram bag, or 58,000 cedis per tonne. This adjustment, effective immediately, positions Ghana’s cocoa price at $4.5 per kilogram, closely trailing its neighbor and top global producer, Ivory Coast, which recently set a record price of 2,800 CFA ($5) per kilogram. The decision underscores the Ghanaian government’s commitment to ensuring farmers receive equitable compensation for their labor, according to Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson. This price hike follows a previous announcement in August 2025, which had already marked a 60% increase in dollar terms, though the cedi’s depreciation since then has somewhat diluted its impact. Price controls in Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, aim to stabilize farmers’ incomes, particularly during market downturns. However, critics argue that these controls have failed to keep pace with global price surges, prompting some farmers to abandon cocoa farming for more lucrative ventures like gold mining, which has led to environmental degradation and further strained cocoa production. The Ghanaian government, under President John Mahama, has pledged to increase cocoa farmers’ share of export earnings to at least 70% of the Free-On-Board (FOB) value. Additionally, Forson announced ongoing support initiatives for farmers, including free fertilizers, pesticides, and spraying machines, as well as a new scholarship program for cocoa farmers’ children, set to begin in the 2026/27 academic year.
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Musk becomes first person to surpass US$500 billion net worth
Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest individual, has etched his name in history by becoming the first person to amass a net worth exceeding $500 billion, as reported by Forbes’ real-time billionaires index. This unprecedented achievement underscores Musk’s dominance in the global tech and business arenas, leaving his competitors far behind. On Wednesday afternoon in New York, Musk’s fortune momentarily peaked at $500.1 billion before settling slightly above $499 billion later in the day. The bulk of Musk’s wealth is attributed to his 12% stake in Tesla, the electric vehicle giant whose stock has experienced a meteoric rise this year. Musk, who also spearheads SpaceX, Neuralink, and other groundbreaking ventures, has consistently led global wealth rankings. However, this milestone marks the first instance of any individual surpassing the half-trillion-dollar mark. Forbes further speculates that Musk could potentially become the world’s first trillionaire by 2033.
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Trump piles pain on Democrats over US government shutdown
In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing government shutdown, former President Donald Trump has signaled his intent to proceed with mass layoffs of federal workers, intensifying pressure on Democrats to concede to his demands. Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that he would meet with budget chief Russell Vought to identify agencies for potential cuts, labeling many as ‘political scams.’ The shutdown, now in its second day, has already forced 750,000 federal employees to stay home without pay, with threats of permanent layoffs looming.
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15 boats sail off as 9th Mayberry marlin tourney gets underway
PORTLAND, Jamaica — The ninth edition of the Mayberry Superstars of Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament commenced on Thursday morning, with 15 out of the 22 registered boats setting sail from the Errol Flynn Marina. The event, supported by the Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard and the Port Antonio Marine Police, saw defending champion Safe Passage, led by last year’s top angler Chris Berry, aiming for another victory. Just two hours into the competition, Brac Rebel made the first significant catch, releasing the tournament’s inaugural marlin and securing an early lead. Tournament Director Bobby Stewart acknowledged that while 22 boats had registered, mechanical and weather-related issues prevented some from participating initially. However, he anticipated that 19 or 20 boats would be active by Friday. The tournament, which attracts international participants, particularly from the Cayman Islands, features a prize pool of approximately US $330,000, including cash, trophies, and fishing gear. A standout reward of US$100,000 is also available for any record-breaking catch in the blue marlin, white marlin, or yellowfin tuna categories. Mayberry Investments, the title sponsor, continues its longstanding support for the event, which not only highlights Port Antonio’s exceptional fishing opportunities but also boosts the local economy and tourism. Stewart praised Port Antonio’s natural beauty and warm hospitality, emphasizing its significance as a prime fishing destination. As part of community engagement, organizers have scheduled a free concert for residents on Sunday evening. With favorable fishing conditions and a high number of blue marlin in the waters, Stewart expressed optimism that this year’s tournament would be one of the best yet. The competition runs daily until 5:00 pm, with results and highlights to be announced in the coming days.