标签： Jamaica

A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Sarreguemines, northeastern France, as a nine-year-old girl was discovered dead in her home over the weekend. Authorities, including prosecutors and police sources, have indicated that the tragedy likely resulted from suicide, following persistent bullying. The young girl’s body was found on Saturday, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for action against school harassment. Former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who previously served as education minister and founded an association to combat bullying, expressed his condolences on social media platform X. He described bullying as a ‘scourge’ and a ‘slow poison’ that can lead to devastating outcomes. Regional education officials expressed deep shock over the incident, while the public prosecutor’s office confirmed an ongoing investigation, suggesting the act appeared to be voluntary. Police sources revealed that the girl had left a letter for her family. Her mother disclosed that the child had been subjected to relentless bullying by her primary school classmates, who mocked her for being overweight. The mother also shared that her daughter had previously mentioned suicidal thoughts. On Monday morning, white roses adorned the school’s railings as a poignant tribute. A family acquaintance, speaking anonymously, claimed that the school had been informed about the bullying but failed to intervene effectively. Abnor, a nine-year-old classmate, recounted how the girl was bullied on her way home, describing her as cheerful in class but often subjected to insults. ‘It’s not nice,’ he said. ‘We’re in school to learn, to get a good job, to earn money. It’s not a place for bullying—not here nor anywhere else in the world.’ The incident has reignited urgent discussions about the need for stronger anti-bullying measures in schools.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — On October 9, The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston hosted a graduation and close-out ceremony for the European Union (EU)-sponsored BRIDGE Project, attended by nearly 60 young participants. These graduates were among the over 300 youths who engaged in empowerment and development activities organized by the MultiCare Youth Foundation (MYF). Each received certificates and branded tokens in recognition of their accomplishments. The BRIDGE Project, an acronym for Building through Reintegration, Intervention, Development, Growth, and Education, aimed to reduce youth crime and violence by addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by at-risk youth. MYF Chairman Joseph Matalon praised the participants for their resilience and transformation, emphasizing the project’s success in creating a foundation for positive change. He highlighted the EU’s support as part of a broader partnership with Jamaica, focusing on empowering vulnerable citizens. Matalon underscored the collaborative efforts of various organizations, including Crime Stop Jamaica, the Joan Duncan Foundation, and the Department of Correctional Services, in achieving national transformation. The 34-month initiative provided layered interventions, including literacy instruction, life skills training, mentorship, and cognitive behavioral therapy, benefiting over 300 youths across five communities. Notably, 85 participants secured internships, and 50 were assisted in applying for vocational programs. The project also engaged youth through arts and videography training, fostering advocacy and positive storytelling. Additionally, over 280 school administrators and teachers participated in leadership training, while 50 community members were trained in dispute resolution techniques. MYF Administrative Manager Ann Astwood expressed gratitude to donors and sponsors, crediting their support for the project’s success. She encouraged the graduates, noting their perseverance as a testament to the program’s impact. The BRIDGE Project exemplifies the transformative power of opportunity and belief, paving the way for a brighter future for Jamaica’s youth.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) in Jamaica has announced the St Catherine Job Fair, set to take place on Wednesday, October 29, at Celebration Church in Portmore. The event, running from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, is designed to connect jobseekers in Portmore and surrounding areas with a variety of employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including hospitality, security, finance, and customer service. Positions such as customer service representatives, baristas, chefs, security guards, accounting clerks, and restaurant managers will be available. Prominent companies like Fontana Pharmacy, Hawkeye, Centerfield Star Bucks Convenient Brands Limited (which includes Dominos and Circle K), SWAT Elite, Guardsman, Optimum, Wendy’s, KFC, Restaurants Associates Limited (including Burger King, Popeyes, and Little Caesars), and Honey Bun will be participating. Lyndon Ford, Director of the Electronic Labour Exchange (ELE), advises jobseekers to research companies of interest beforehand, dress professionally, and bring a positive attitude to enhance their chances of securing employment. Participants are encouraged to register online at lmis.gov.jm, upload their résumés, and bring essential documents such as proof of qualifications, National Insurance Scheme (NIS) card, Tax Registration Number (TRN) card, and passport-sized photographs. Walk-ins are also welcome. For further details, individuals can contact the Ministry at customerservice@mlss.gov.jm or visit mlss.gov.jm/events. This initiative underscores the MLSS’s commitment to fostering social protection and economic stability for Jamaicans by linking them with meaningful employment opportunities.