Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Naps Girls, BATCE students take President’s Medal – while 105 schols awarded

    Naps Girls, BATCE students take President’s Medal – while 105 schols awarded

    In a significant recognition of academic achievement, the Trinidad and Tobago government has announced the recipients of the prestigious 2026 President’s Medals for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE). Elizabeth Singh of Naparima Girls High School and Aliya Serrette of Bishop Anstey High School and Trinity College East (BATCE) have been honored as the nation’s top performers in their respective academic categories.

    The announcement was formally made by Professor Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, during a January 23 session in the House of Representatives. Minister Persad revealed that alongside these honors, the government will disburse 105 national scholarships totaling $35.8 million, representing an increase from the 103 scholarships awarded in 2025.

    Academic excellence was categorized into two distinct fields. Singh emerged as the outstanding student in the Environmental Studies, Information Communication Technology, Mathematics, and Natural Sciences division. Serrette distinguished herself in the Business Studies, Creative Writing and Performance Studies, General Studies, Modern Studies and Humanities, Language Studies, and Technical Studies category.

    The scholarship allocation comprises 47 open scholarships and 58 additional scholarships, as approved by the Cabinet based on recommendations from the Ministry of Tertiary Education and Skills Training. Demographic data shows 39 male and 66 female recipients among the scholars.

    Minister Persad emphasized the ongoing accountability requirements for scholarship recipients, noting that their academic performance will be monitored by the ministry’s scholarship department throughout their studies. Scholars must maintain the required cumulative grade point average to continue receiving support.

    The minister extended congratulations to all awardees, highlighting that their achievements bring pride to the government, ministry, nation, families, and educational institutions. The nation anticipates their future contributions to national development upon successful completion of their studies.

  • Marcelle: Provide relief for citizens

    Marcelle: Provide relief for citizens

    The Trinidad and Tobago House of Representatives witnessed a tumultuous session during Private Members’ Day on January 23, with opposition and government members engaging in fierce exchanges over mass terminations and their socioeconomic consequences.

    Laventille West MP Kareem Marcelle introduced a resolution highlighting the severe impact of widespread contract non-renewals across public bodies and state agencies. The motion emphasized that vulnerable communities—including single mothers, female-headed households, youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities—are experiencing disproportionate effects, leading to increased food insecurity, school absenteeism, mental health challenges, and social exclusion risks.

    Marcelle accused the governing United National Congress (UNC) of administering through ‘fear, evil, hate, and intimidation,’ claiming that post-election policies have targeted citizens who previously applied for positions between 2015-2025. He referenced the tragic case of Richard Cooper, who was found unresponsive after being laid off, as emblematic of the human cost of these actions.

    Government members repeatedly challenged the relevance of Marcelle’s statements, with Speaker Jagdeo Singh cautioning against hyperbolic rhetoric. The opposition maintained that the terminations represent an unjust ‘war against the most vulnerable.’

    Couva South MP Barry Padarath countered that the motion rested on false premises, asserting that the previous People’s National Movement (PNM) administration had left a legacy of ‘debt and destruction.’ He defended the government’s actions as necessary to eliminate ‘improper, unsustainable, unlawful practices’ including ghost rentals, leases, and Cabinet notes from the previous decade.

    St Ann’s East MP Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly delivered an emotional address, comparing the current economic crisis to the 1980s era that produced ‘barrel children.’ She highlighted that over 40,000 terminations—affecting more than 20,000 vulnerable women with school-aged children—have created an education emergency with approximately 40,000 children at risk of dropping out. She criticized the government’s inadequate response compared to COVID-19 relief measures.

    La Brea MP Clyde Elder accused the opposition of hypocrisy, recalling PNM-era closures of Petrotrin, GHRS, and the Tourism Development Company. He presented data showing significant declines in social programs under the previous administration, including dramatic reductions in GATE recipients (from 59,605 to 15,491), HYPE participants (771 to 264), and HELP loans (2,023 to 612).

    The session concluded without resolution, adjourning to a future date as both sides remained deeply divided on addressing the nation’s growing socioeconomic challenges.

  • Grenadian singer Muddy pays courtesy calls on local ministers

    Grenadian singer Muddy pays courtesy calls on local ministers

    In a significant cultural exchange between neighboring Caribbean nations, Grenada’s reigning Soca Monarch Alex “Muddy” Cuffie conducted diplomatic courtesy visits to senior Trinidadian officials this week. The acclaimed artist, who also holds the People’s Choice Award title, met with Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal at the International Waterfront Centre in Port of Spain.

    The ceremonial meeting featured an exchange of cultural gifts symbolizing the strengthening bonds between the two islands. Cuffie presented Minister Moonilal with an elaborate gift package curated by the Grenadian Prime Minister’s Office, containing authentic Grenadian spices, a heritage photography book, traditional guava jelly and nutmeg jam preserves, alongside a personalized backpack bearing the artist’s signature branding.

    Minister Moonilal reciprocated the diplomatic warmth by expressing his personal admiration for Grenadian culture and revealing his close friendship with Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. The energy official extended his best wishes for Cuffie’s upcoming performances during Trinidad’s 2026 Carnival season.

    In a separate cultural diplomacy engagement, the Grenadian soca ambassador also met with representatives from Trinidad’s Ministry of Culture, presenting Communications Specialist Jerome Lewis with additional heritage gift packages for Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin.

    Cuffie, who has been in Trinidad since early January, expressed profound appreciation for the overwhelming reception of his hit single ‘Payroll’ among Trinidadian audiences. The artist emphasized the historical interconnectedness between the two nations, noting: ‘TT and Grenada have always had good relations with many families relocating between our islands over time—we are essentially extended family.’

    The cultural ambassador is scheduled to headline A Team Events’ A Class VIP Cooler Experience on January 25th at Cipriani Labour College Grounds, joining other top soca performers backed by the renowned A Team Band.

  • More than a headcount

    More than a headcount

    The Trinidadian government’s recent announcement of a renewed registration process for Venezuelan migrants has raised questions about its broader integration strategy beyond mere documentation. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander revealed on January 22 that migrants would be required to pay a $700 fee to register under the program, which aims to regularize undocumented individuals through the Migrant Registration Framework from January 1 to September 30, 2026.

    While the initiative promises legal residency and work rights, concerns have emerged regarding its narrow focus on Venezuelan nationals and its apparent prioritization of security concerns over integration planning. The registration process will utilize sports venues across Trinidad alongside online platforms, followed by in-person interviews. Notably absent were details regarding non-Venezuelan immigrants within the country.

    Minister Alexander emphasized the security dimensions of the exercise, stating it would help authorities identify individuals “involved in crime and other types of activities” and facilitate investigations. This security-focused approach appears connected to longstanding concerns about drug trafficking from South America, even prior to recent US-Venezuelan tensions.

    The policy carries significant implications for migrants, with deportation threatened for those failing to register. This threat exists despite current difficulties in executing deportations due to diplomatic tensions between Trinidad and Venezuela. These strains have been exacerbated by opposition leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s support for US narco-trafficking rhetoric and subsequent diplomatic exchanges between Caracas and Port of Spain.

    Critical questions remain unanswered regarding the long-term vision for migrant integration. Concerns include educational access for migrant children, formalization of employment opportunities, and potential pathways to residency. Particularly noteworthy is the situation of skilled professionals like engineers and medical practitioners currently working in factories whose potential contributions remain underutilized.

    When questioned about tax obligations for registered migrants, Minister Alexander deferred, stating the immediate focus remains on registration. The government has yet to clarify whether this initiative might evolve toward residency status consideration or address complex issues involving children born to Trinidadian nationals or binational marriages.

    The absence of a comprehensive integration framework leaves uncertainty about how migrants will contribute to Trinidad’s workforce, economy, and social fabric beyond the registration period.

  • Flava Food Village debut a success

    Flava Food Village debut a success

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival 2026 has witnessed the spectacular success of its newest attraction, the Flava Food Village, which has rapidly become a cornerstone of the cultural celebrations. The venue reached new heights during Patrice Roberts’ “Always Us” concert on January 22nd at Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, where thousands of attendees enjoyed a night of electrifying performances completely free of charge.

    Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin, alongside National Carnival Commission (NCC) chairman Peter Kanhai and other dignitaries, personally experienced the vibrant atmosphere among the massive crowd. Benjamin declared the event “nothing short of incredible,” emphasizing the dual benefits of cultural celebration and economic stimulation for local vendors.

    The Minister highlighted the innovative approach of the new NCC Board and ministry stakeholders in creating this platform that simultaneously showcases Trinidad’s culinary arts, cultural identity, and community development. “This year, through the addition of Flava Food Village we have made a difference, we have made an unforgettable impact,” Benjamin stated in an official release.

    The overwhelming public response has been particularly significant given initial criticisms regarding logistical changes to this year’s Carnival production. Benjamin extended special gratitude to Patrice Roberts and her band for their initiative in organizing the free concert, which featured both emerging and established local artists, creating an unparalleled display of Trinidadian talent and energy.

    The Flava Food Village represents a strategic evolution in Carnival programming, successfully blending gastronomic experiences with musical performances while maintaining accessibility through free admission. This innovative model has established a new standard for cultural events in the region, demonstrating how cultural preservation and economic development can coexist harmoniously.

  • Bishop Anstey, QRC get tight wins to start water polo season

    Bishop Anstey, QRC get tight wins to start water polo season

    The 2026 Republic Bank Aquatics Sports Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ASATT) National Secondary Schools Water Polo League commenced with spectacular matches at two national venues, showcasing emerging aquatic talent across multiple age divisions.

    Opening day at the National Aquatic Centre in Couva on January 17 featured nail-biting finishes in both girls’ and boys’ open categories. Bishop Anstey High School narrowly defeated Holy Name Convent 15-14 in a girls’ matchup that saw Abiah Halls deliver a spectacular fourth-quarter performance, scoring five of her six total goals to overcome an 11-8 deficit. Despite Mia Thomas’ impressive eight-goal contribution, Holy Name fell just short in the closing moments.

    The boys’ open division witnessed Queen’s Royal College withstand a late rally from St Mary’s College to secure an 18-15 victory. QRC established dominance through middle quarters, building a 17-12 advantage powered by Javier Jordan’s seven goals and Aaron Villafana’s six goals. Though St Mary’s mounted a final-quarter comeback, QRC maintained their lead for the win.

    Action shifted to Diego Martin Community Pool on January 18 for Form One competitions, where multiple schools demonstrated their developing talent. Diego Martin Central edged Bishop Anstey 8-7 despite Gia-Marie Plaza’s six-goal effort for BAHS, with Taleyah Baker’s hat-trick proving decisive.

    Diego Martin continued their strong showing with a 15-5 victory over St Mary’s in boys’ Form One play, fueled by Keston Brisaan’s remarkable nine-goal performance supplemented by Andriel Williams’ four goals. Fatima College delivered the most dominant performance of the day, overwhelming Trinity College Moka 20-5 behind Taylon Diaz’s 11-goal explosion and Bradley Alexander’s five goals.

    Additional Form One results saw Holy Name defeat Providence Girls’ Catholic School 11-4 with Ariya Bolai De Matas scoring seven goals, while St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain shut out Corpus Christi College 10-0 with Cacique Darbeau (4 goals) and Alyx Campbell (3 goals) leading the offense.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Saturday January 24th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Saturday January 24th 2026

    The global dietary supplement industry, valued at over $50 billion, operates in a regulatory gray zone that continues to challenge consumers and health professionals alike. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs that require rigorous FDA approval for safety and efficacy, supplements enter the market under the 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), which places the burden of proof on regulators rather than manufacturers.

    This regulatory framework means supplements can be marketed without pre-market approval, provided they don’t claim to treat specific diseases. The industry has exploded with products ranging from vitamins and minerals to botanicals, amino acids, and proprietary blends, often marketed with structure/function claims that promise general wellness benefits rather than medical outcomes.

    Recent developments have highlighted growing concerns about product safety, ingredient transparency, and misleading marketing practices. The FDA maintains oversight through post-market surveillance, but can only take action against products proven to be unsafe or misbranded after they reach consumers. This reactive approach has led to calls for stricter manufacturing standards and more transparent labeling requirements from medical associations and consumer advocacy groups.

    Experts emphasize that while some supplements demonstrate benefits for specific populations (such as folic acid for pregnant women or vitamin D for those with deficiencies), many products lack substantial clinical evidence. Consumers are advised to consult healthcare providers before beginning any supplement regimen, particularly when combining multiple products or taking them alongside prescription medications where dangerous interactions may occur.

    The digital marketplace has further complicated the landscape, with social media influencers and online retailers accelerating the distribution of products that may contain undisclosed ingredients or contaminants. International regulatory bodies are increasingly collaborating to address cross-border e-commerce challenges and harmonize safety standards in this rapidly evolving wellness sector.

  • Cooper, Ramharack shine in third-place match at T20 Blaze … Positive end for Divas

    Cooper, Ramharack shine in third-place match at T20 Blaze … Positive end for Divas

    In a dramatic conclusion to their Women’s T20 Blaze campaign, the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force Divas clinched third place with a hard-fought seven-run victory against Guyana on January 23 in St Vincent. The match showcased exceptional bowling performances and strategic gameplay that kept spectators on edge until the final delivery.

    Batting first, TT posted a competitive 104/7 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks primarily to Britney Cooper’s impressive 46-run contribution. Supporting acts came from Djenaba Joseph (15) and Karishma Ramharack (13), who helped build a defendable total against Guyana’s bowling attack led by Ashmini Munisar’s dominant 4/15 spell.

    Guyana’s chase began promisingly but faltered against TT’s spin-dominated counterattack. Off-spinner Karishma Ramharack emerged as the bowling protagonist with remarkable figures of 3/13, receiving substantial support from Lee-Ann Kirby (2/10), Shalini Samaroo (2/16), and veteran spinner Anisa Mohammed (2/17). Despite Shabika Gajnabi’s resilient 32-run effort, Guyana fell short at 97 all out in 19.4 overs.

    In the day’s other fixture, Jamaica concluded their tournament in fifth position with a commanding ten-wicket triumph over Windward Islands Women. Jamaica’s bowlers restricted Windwards to 62/9 in 20 overs before achieving the target in just 3.4 overs without losing a wicket, demonstrating complete dominance in their final appearance.

  • San Juan/Laventille corporation transport yard plagued by faeces, mosquitoes

    San Juan/Laventille corporation transport yard plagued by faeces, mosquitoes

    San Juan/Laventille Regional Corporation transport yard employees are raising alarms over dangerously unsanitary working conditions and systemic operational failures that threaten both worker health and public service delivery. Workers interviewed on January 22nd detailed multiple health hazards including a chronically overflowing cesspit, mosquito infestations from stagnant water, and inadequate sanitation facilities.

    The situation has created a perfect storm of health risks, with one employee confirming he contracted dengue fever on the compound in early 2025. ‘We control mosquitoes at home, but here we’re bitten from morning to afternoon,’ he described. ‘You leave itchy, lumpy, and in discomfort.’

    Beyond health concerns, workers highlighted critical operational deficiencies. The yard faces severe vehicle maintenance issues, with many government vehicles operating without proper inspection, logbooks, or safety certifications. Employees reported being penalized for refusing to operate faulty equipment, while simultaneously having their allowances withheld and hours cut for not remaining on the hazardous premises.

    Workers identified these problems as symptomatic of broader institutional failure, criticizing both management and successive administrations for neglecting what they call ‘the backbone of every corporation.’ The transport yard handles essential services including emergency response, garbage collection, and construction material delivery across some of the region’s most challenging terrain.

    Despite previous complaints to management, union representatives, and councilors, no corrective action had been taken. When contacted by Newsday, Corporation Chairman Richard Walcott and the CEO both claimed unawareness of the issues, promising immediate resolution while acknowledging the corporation’s cesspool truck was currently non-operational.

  • No Ultimate Soca Champion show

    No Ultimate Soca Champion show

    The highly anticipated Ultimate Soca Championship competition will not proceed in 2026 due to economic challenges and lack of governmental support, CEO Jerome ‘Rome’ Precilla has confirmed. The decision marks a significant setback for Caribbean musical talent development during Carnival season.

    Precilla revealed that organizers had reached out to Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Culture and Community Development and the National Carnival Commission (NCC) in January, proposing collaborative budget solutions to accommodate the current economic climate. Despite offering to work within constrained financial parameters, the organization received no response from governmental bodies as the Carnival season approached.

    ‘We recognized the economic realities were different this year,’ Precilla explained via WhatsApp messaging. ‘We presented flexible options to maintain the project based on last year’s demonstrated successes, but without ministerial support, producing our standard of show became impossible.’

    The competition, which launched during Carnival 2025 as a successor to the discontinued International Soca Monarch, had established itself as a crucial platform for emerging artists. Precilla highlighted several success stories including Sucre (lead vocalist for Evolution Band), Anika Berry, Christo, and Christina James – artists who gained significant recognition and career opportunities through the championship.

    Last year’s tournament achieved remarkable reach with over one million combined views across social media and television broadcasts throughout the season. The 2025 edition operated on an $8 million budget and crowned Grenada’s Akim ‘Blaka Dan’ Ogiste as champion.

    Precilla expressed profound disappointment at the cancellation, noting that artists consistently inquire about the competition’s return. While private entities expressed willingness to contribute, Precilla emphasized that large-scale ventures of this nature require foundational government support. Organizers remain hopeful for renewed partnership with ministry officials and the NCC to revive the championship for Carnival 2027.