Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Primary Schools’ Panorama champs unseated

    Primary Schools’ Panorama champs unseated

    In a stunning upset at the National Primary Schools’ Panorama competition, St Margaret’s Boys’ Anglican School unseated defending champions San Fernando Boys’ RC School with a commanding 14-point victory. The young musicians scored 279 points with their performance of Voice’s “Year for Love,” marking a significant shift in the competitive steelpan landscape.

    The former champions, San Fernando Boys’ RC School’s Sando Boys’ Steel, placed third with 265 points for their rendition of Explainer’s “Lorraine,” narrowly edged out of second position by Febeau Government Primary School, which scored 266 points with Voice’s “Too Own Way.”

    The event, historically held at Queen’s Park Savannah, made its debut at Skinner Park in San Fernando—a move described as historic by officials. San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris endorsed the relocation, calling it a decision that “made sense” and pledging continued support for initiatives benefiting children.

    Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath emphasized during the opening ceremony that participation itself constituted victory for students, tutors, teachers, and parents. “Even though you are competing, you’re making history,” he stated. “Not only by performing in an event in a historic location, but students, you are carrying forward a legacy that belongs to all of us in TT.”

    Gwyneth Morris-Alexander, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Community Development, highlighted the cultural significance of the steel pan as “a powerful symbol of the country’s resilience and creativity.” She told participants, “As you perform today, know that you’re not only competing, you are preserving a legacy and shaping our future.”

    Minister Dowlath further articulated the educational value of music, noting its role in strengthening critical thinking, improving literacy, and building discipline and teamwork. He reaffirmed the Ministry of Education’s commitment to expanding arts education.

    The complete results showed St Paul’s Anglican Primary (262 points), Guaico Presbyterian School (257 points), and Escallier Anglican Primary (254 points) rounding out the top contenders in the fiercely contested musical celebration.

  • Junior Panorama champs crowned

    Junior Panorama champs crowned

    In a vibrant celebration of musical heritage, Trinidad’s Queen’s Park Savannah witnessed an extraordinary display of youthful talent during the Junior Panorama competition on January 18. The event introduced a groundbreaking under-19 category that captured the nation’s attention, with St Francois Valley Stars claiming the inaugural championship title.

    The newly established division emerged as an innovative solution after numerous secondary school bands withdrew from the National Schools Panorama. This withdrawal occurred when the traditional event relocated to Skinner Park in San Fernando, creating logistical challenges that prevented many schools from participating within the compressed timeframe.

    Ten accomplished youth orchestras competed in the debut under-19 category, showcasing exceptional musical prowess. Bishop Anstey Trinity College East (BATCE) Steel secured second position while Sapphonic Steel earned third place honors, demonstrating the remarkable depth of young pan talent across Trinidad.

    Simultaneously, the under-21 category delivered equally impressive performances. Shell Invaders Youth Steel Orchestra emerged victorious in this division, with BP Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra capturing second place. The competition concluded with an unusual tie for third position between T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Youth Steel Orchestra and First Citizens Supernovas Youth Steel Orchestra.

    The event represented more than mere competition—it served as a powerful testament to Trinidad’s enduring cultural legacy and the next generation’s commitment to preserving steel pan traditions. Photographs captured by Lincoln Holder documented the joyful intensity of performers, from beaming musicians to dedicated young artists fully immersed in their craft.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 19th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 19th 2026

    The academic publishing landscape is undergoing a revolutionary transformation with the emergence of a groundbreaking digital platform dubbed ‘Special Publications.’ This AI-powered system, which processes new research submissions in approximately seven minutes, represents a seismic shift from traditional peer-review models that often take months.

    Developed by an anonymous team of digital archivists and AI specialists, the platform utilizes advanced machine learning algorithms to analyze, categorize, and validate scientific submissions. The system’s ‘webmaster’ functionality autonomously handles everything from initial manuscript screening to final publication readiness, dramatically accelerating the dissemination of knowledge.

    This innovation addresses critical inefficiencies in academic publishing, where valuable research frequently faces prolonged delays before reaching the scientific community. The platform’s seven-minute processing capability—signified by the ‘7 Minutes Ago’ timestamp—ensures near-instantaneous publication while maintaining rigorous academic standards through algorithmic validation protocols.

    The implications for research communities are substantial, particularly for time-sensitive fields where rapid knowledge sharing can accelerate discoveries. The platform’s architecture also promises to reduce administrative burdens on researchers and institutions while potentially democratizing access to cutting-edge findings across global scientific networks.

  • Newsday’s winding-up petition adjourned to January 23

    Newsday’s winding-up petition adjourned to January 23

    The High Court has postponed the critical winding-up petition against Daily News Ltd, publisher of Trinidad and Tobago’s Newsday newspaper, until January 23 following a brief hearing on January 19. Justice Marissa Robertson granted the adjournment request after company attorneys cited procedural requirements under the Companies Act.

    Legal representatives Gregory Pantin and Miguel Vasquez of Hamel-Smith and Co. appeared before the court, explaining that the petition filed on December 31 was officially gazetted on January 15—later than initially anticipated. This timing complication affected the company’s ability to meet the mandatory seven-day statutory period for advertisement in both the Gazette and at least one local daily newspaper before the hearing.

    Pantin clarified that the delay prevented the company from filing its certificate of compliance with the court registry. He further noted that no creditors or contributories had submitted notices of intention to appear at Monday’s hearing, despite the published invitation for interested parties to support or oppose the winding-up order.

    Justice Robertson reviewed her judicial calendar before scheduling the rescheduled hearing for 10 am on January 23. The proceedings mark a pivotal moment for Newsday, which launched on September 20, 1993, as the youngest among the nation’s three daily newspapers. The outcome could determine whether the publication ceases operations after more than three decades of service.

  • Central Bank seeks to postpone CL Financial hearing

    Central Bank seeks to postpone CL Financial hearing

    Trinidad’s High Court has been requested to postpone a landmark lawsuit against former CL Financial executives following the parliamentary submission of a long-awaited commission of enquiry report into one of the Caribbean’s most devastating financial collapses.

    The Central Bank formally sought an adjournment of its protracted legal battle against former CL Financial chairman Lawrence Duprey and other directors, citing the need to thoroughly analyze the newly released Colman Report. This 676-page investigative document, laid before Parliament on January 16, 2026, details the catastrophic 2009 collapse that necessitated a massive government bailout exceeding $28 billion.

    Attorney Elena Araujo, representing the Central Bank, communicated to Justice Robin Mohammed that claimants require until January 26 to review the voluminous report and assess its implications for the ongoing proceedings. The lawsuit, originally filed in 2011, alleges severe mismanagement and financial misconduct within Colonial Life Insurance Company (Trinidad) Ltd and its parent conglomerate CL Financial.

    Attorney General John Jeremie revealed the staggering scale of the financial disaster, noting that beyond the direct bailout costs, an additional $3-4 billion was incurred in legal and administrative expenses. The report concludes that the rescue operation created a significant long-term burden on public finances, constraining government spending on infrastructure and social services for years.

    Despite over a decade of investigations and hundreds of millions in professional fees, no criminal charges have resulted from the collapse. Jeremie indicated the state would seek to terminate costly civil proceedings that have failed to deliver meaningful outcomes.

    The trial, which commenced earlier this month, involves allegations that CL Financial executives operated without proper governance, using policyholder funds to finance personal lifestyles and private companies. The conglomerate’s failure threatened national economic stability and wiped out millions in investor savings.

    Former Central Bank governor Ewart Williams is among dozens of witnesses expected to testify in what was anticipated to be a month-long trial before the report’s emergence delayed proceedings.

  • Beckles: Amendment to THA laws will benefit Tobago

    Beckles: Amendment to THA laws will benefit Tobago

    In a historic parliamentary session, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has affirmed her party’s unwavering support for Tobago’s developmental agenda during debates on the Tobago House of Assembly (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The PNM political leader emphasized her party’s longstanding commitment to advancing legislative measures that benefit all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

    Addressing the House of Representatives on January 16, Beckles provided historical context, noting that discussions regarding Tobago’s greater autonomy have persisted for decades. She revealed that the People’s National Movement had conducted extensive consultations with Tobagonians over the years, culminating in the previous Tobago Self-Government Bill presented to Parliament in 2020.

    Beckles addressed concerns raised by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar regarding the discretionary powers granted to the THA Chief Secretary to expand secretarial positions within the assembly. The opposition leader clarified that such provisions were already incorporated within the 2020 legislation, indicating continuity between the previous and current bills.

    While acknowledging that Tobago didn’t receive all requested resources during the PNM’s administration from 2015-2025, Beckles highlighted several completed projects demonstrating her party’s commitment, including the Southwest Tobago Wastewater Project, Hillsborough Dam, and acquisition of the Cove Industrial Estate.

    The legislative process concluded with overwhelming bipartisan support, as the bill passed with 38 affirmative votes and no opposition or abstentions. This political consensus emerges following the Tobago People’s Party’s decisive 15-0 victory in the January 12 THA elections, which resulted in the PNM losing its sole representative seat for Darrel Spring/Whim.

    Both government and opposition leaders extended congratulations to TPP political leader Farley Augustine on his electoral triumph and assumption of the Chief Secretary role.

  • Junior pannists shine in the Savannah

    Junior pannists shine in the Savannah

    PORT OF SPAIN – The vibrant sounds of steelpan music filled Queen’s Park Savannah on January 18 as Trinidad’s most talented young musicians competed in Pan Trinbago’s Junior Panorama finals. The prestigious under-19 competition showcased exceptional musical artistry from next-generation performers preserving the nation’s cultural heritage.

    East PoS Stars Steel Orchestra captivated audiences with their energetic performance of “Jamtown,” setting the stage for an evening of musical excellence. From Belmont, St Francois Valley Stars delivered a sophisticated interpretation of “Too Own Way,” a composition by Jason Shaft Bishop, Scott Galt, and Michael Hulsmeier, expertly arranged by McKeem Joseph and Nalo Elie.

    Legacy Steel Orchestra moved listeners with their spiritual rendition of “Blessing,” composed by Wrenroy “Blaka Dan” Ogiste and arranged by Daniob Phillip. Meanwhile, El Dorado’s Eldo East Blue Steel Orchestra brought shimmering artistry to their performance of “Gold,” demonstrating technical precision and emotional depth.

    The event transcended mere competition as family and friends packed the stands, creating an atmosphere of communal support and cultural celebration. The enthusiastic audience reflected the deep connection between Trinidad’s steelpan tradition and its community roots, with generations coming together to nurture emerging talent.

    This annual event represents a critical investment in the future of Trinidad’s national instrument, ensuring the continuity of steelpan artistry while fostering musical innovation among youth. The Junior Panorama serves as both training ground and showcase for musicians who may eventually grace the main Panorama stage as professional performers.

  • Regional Carnival $$ distribution begins Jan 21

    Regional Carnival $$ distribution begins Jan 21

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has initiated substantial financial support for regional Carnival celebrations, with Culture and Community Development Minister Michelle Benjamin announcing imminent disbursements totaling $35 million. Pan Trinbago is slated to receive $20 million while the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) will obtain $15 million in structured tranches throughout the Carnival period.

    Minister Benjamin, speaking at a UNC media briefing in Chaguanas on January 18, emphasized the government’s commitment to timely funding distribution and accountability standards. She directly addressed criticisms about insufficient support for cultural organizations, stating: “There are a lot of claims that this government does not like pan, does not fund pan, and I would like that to stop.” She confirmed that prize monies would not see reductions despite economic pressures.

    The ministry has pioneered new cultural initiatives including Flava Village, John Cupid Carnival Village, and the traveling Welcome to the Gayelle program that has visited Moruga, Debe, Tunapuna, and will soon reach Mayaro. These developments respond to public demand for expanded cultural spaces beyond Port of Spain. Benjamin highlighted the remarkable public response, noting that the John Cupid Village nearly reached capacity closures due to overwhelming attendance.

    NCC chairman Peter Kanhai provided infrastructure updates, revealing that the North Stand is 85% complete with handover expected by January 25. Construction efficiency has significantly improved with current pricing for major structures running 40-45% lower than 2025 figures. The Downtown stand and Skinner Park stage for Calypso Fiesta are progressing according to schedule.

    Economic indicators show robust Carnival engagement with hotels at full capacity and incoming flights fully booked. Vendors at Flava Village report exceptional earnings, surpassing their entire 2025 revenue within the first week of operation. The NCC is considering maintaining the village year-round to accommodate tourist demand and cruise ship visitors.

    The cultural calendar remains packed with events including a free Patrice Roberts concert, chutnight night, and rhythm and steel performances, demonstrating the expanded footprint of Carnival celebrations across Trinidad and Tobago.

  • West Indies Under-19s bruised at World Cup

    West Indies Under-19s bruised at World Cup

    In a stunning display of cricketing prowess, Afghanistan’s Under-19 team delivered a comprehensive 138-run victory over the West Indies in their ICC Under-19 World Cup encounter on January 18th in Windhoek, Namibia. The emphatic win secured Afghanistan’s advancement to the Super-Six stage of the tournament while leaving the Caribbean side facing significant challenges.

    Afghanistan’s decision to bat first after winning the toss proved strategically sound as their batting lineup demonstrated remarkable resilience and partnership building. Openers Khalid Ahmadzai and Osman Sadat established a solid foundation with an 86-run stand, effectively neutralizing the early threat posed by West Indian seamers Jakeem Pollard and Shaquan Belle.

    The West Indies briefly found hope through spinner Vitel Lawes, who broke the opening partnership and claimed two quick wickets to reduce Afghanistan to 110-3 in the 26th over. Lawes’ breakthroughs included dismissing Ahmadzai for 34 and clean bowling Faisal Shinodza for 4, followed by removing Uzaiullah Niazai for 12.

    However, Afghanistan’s recovery was orchestrated by captain Mehboob Khan and the composed Sadat, who constructed a decisive 77-run partnership. Both batsmen reached well-deserved half-centuries, with Sadat anchoring the innings with a top score of 88 while Khan contributed a crucial 86 runs. Their partnership propelled Afghanistan to a competitive total of 262-6 from their allotted 50 overs.

    Afghanistan’s bowling response was immediate and devastating. Their combined pace and spin attack dismantled the West Indies top order within the first five overs, reducing them to a precarious position with three quick wickets. Off-spinner Wahidullah Zadran was particularly destructive, claiming the wickets of opener Tanez Francis (9), Zachary Carter (3), and captain Joshua Dorne for a duck.

    West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew mounted a lone resistance with a classy 57 from 70 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and three sixes. Despite Andrew’s valiant effort, the disciplined Afghan bowling attack maintained constant pressure, with Nooristani Omarzai leading the charge with an impressive four-wicket haul. Supported by Khatir Stanikzai (3-20) and Zadran (3-36), Afghanistan bundled out the West Indies for a meager 124 in the 32nd over.

    The victory marks Afghanistan’s confident progression to the Super Six stage, where they will next face Tanzania on January 21st. The West Indies, meanwhile, must regroup quickly for their crucial encounter against South Africa on January 22nd as they seek to keep their tournament hopes alive.

  • West Indies bowl off T20 series against Afghanistan

    West Indies bowl off T20 series against Afghanistan

    DUBAI – The West Indies cricket team embarks on their final preparatory campaign before the ICC T20 World Cup with a high-stakes three-match series against Afghanistan, commencing January 19 in Dubai. This encounter serves as a critical testing ground for squad combinations and strategic refinements ahead of the global tournament.

    Stand-in captain Brandon King underscored the significance of these fixtures during his pre-match media briefing. “With the World Cup approaching, strong performances and cohesive team play become paramount,” King stated. “Our primary objective is to maintain the standards we’ve established internally and carry that momentum into the World Cup.”

    The Caribbean side welcomes back explosive opener Evin Lewis and pace sensation Shamar Joseph, significantly strengthening their lineup despite several absences due to franchise commitments and scheduled rest periods. King expressed particular enthusiasm about rookie Guyanese batsman Quentin Sampson, noting his “exciting performances in our domestic T20 league this season.”

    The series’ central narrative revolves around the captivating duel between West Indies’ formidable batting power and Afghanistan’s world-class spin attack, spearheaded by Rashid Khan – who needs just nine wickets to reach the historic 700-wicket milestone in T20 cricket – and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.

    King acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Afghanistan’s spin arsenal while maintaining a confident stance. “They rank among the world’s elite T20 spinners, presenting a substantial challenge that I personally relish,” he remarked. “While giving due respect to their quality, T20 cricket demands bravery and self-belief to prevail in such confrontations.”

    This Dubai showdown offers both teams invaluable insights into their World Cup readiness, pitting Caribbean flair against Afghan spin mastery in what promises to be a compelling contest of contrasting cricketing philosophies.