Search Results

The RayAsta Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Level 2 Stroke Caregiver Training Course—a pilot program building on the success of its foundational caregiver training. This marks a historic step forward in building a more skilled and compassionate healthcare workforce in Dominica. This pilot course builds on the success of two completed Level 1 cohorts and officially began on Monday, April 7th, 2025, at the Dominica State College over a ten-week period. The Level 2 program brings together graduates from both the first and second Level 1 cohorts and is designed to deepen their skills in stroke rehabilitation, leadership, and complex caregiving techniques. It will focus on enhanced caregiving techniques, stroke rehabilitation strategies, leadership, supervision, and advanced patient support. Participants will benefit from interactive modules delivered by a team of dedicated professionals in healthcare, psychology, and community leadership. The curriculum is designed not only to deepen knowledge but to empower participants to take on leadership roles and become advocates for stroke awareness, education, and recovery. The training also emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and professional development, preparing caregivers to take on supervisory roles in both home and clinical settings. “This group represents a new caliber of care professionals. Experienced, motivated individuals who are choosing to lead the way in stroke recovery support,” said Cecelia St. Hilaire, Executive Director of the RayAsta Foundation. “We are proud to support their continued growth as they elevate the standard of care in their communities.” The pilot course will also introduce real-world caregiving scenarios, research presentations, and mentorship, ensuring that graduates are prepared to confidently support stroke patients with dignity, empathy, and clinical insight. This initiative reflects the Foundation’s continued mission to strengthen the quality of care and improve health outcomes for stroke patients. Through a combination of education, advocacy, and community engagement, the RayAsta Foundation remains a leader in shaping a more inclusive and prepared caregiving network in Dominica and beyond. Graduates of this pilot program will be recognized during a special completion ceremony in June 2025, where their achievements will be celebrated alongside partners, educators, and members of the RayAsta community.

The Dominica State College (DSC) on Tuesday April 7th, 2025 paid tribute to the late Luther Kosowan, a dedicated craftsman, mentor, and invaluable contributor to the institution, with the installation of a commemorative plaque in the Carpentry Workshop—a space he helped build and enhance. The plaque, unveiled at a special ceremony attended by DSC faculty, students, and Mr. Kosowan’s wife, Ruth Kosowan and supportive friends, serves as a permanent symbol of his dedication, skill, and generosity. A Legacy of Service and Craftsmanship Mr. Kosowan’s journey with DSC began in 2013, and for over a decade, he played a pivotal role in advancing the college’s Carpentry and Maintenance programs. His expertise as a carpenter, welder, and machine repair specialist made him a cornerstone of the institution, where he selflessly contributed his time, skills, and resources to benefit both students and faculty. Among his many contributions, Mr. Kosowan was instrumental in facilitating DSC’s partnership with the Emanuel Foundation in Canada and Thomas Foundation in the United Kingdom, securing essential tools to enhance carpentry training. His generosity extended beyond carpentry—he built classroom whiteboards, repaired essential equipment, and tirelessly worked to improve DSC’s learning environment. Honoring His Contributions Speaking at the ceremony, Kimberly Benjamin, Marketing & Communications Officer at DSC, highlighted the lasting impact of Mr. Kosowan’s work: “Mr. Kosowan may no longer be with us physically, but his contributions will remain woven into the very fabric of our institution. This plaque is a testament to his unwavering commitment, ensuring that future generations of students and faculty will always remember and appreciate his service.” The installation of this plaque is a heartfelt tribute to a man whose dedication and craftsmanship have left an indelible mark on DSC. His memory will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of skilled professionals.

DOWASCO is pleased to announce that the majority of materials (pipes, fittings, and appurtenances) for the highly anticipated Water Sector Strategic Development Project (WSSDP) have been received in Dominica, and preparation work is now underway to enhance the water supply systems in several communities across Dominica. The WSSDP is being executed by DOWASCO with financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) under the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF) Programme, with funding pledged by the UK Government following the devastation of Hurricane Maria. In addition to improving water infrastructure, the WSSDP will provide employment opportunities for several residents across the communities where it will be implemented. DOWASCO is in the process of engaging Community Liaison Officers (CLOs), site technicians, and temporary workers (skilled and unskilled) to commence work on the ground. Small, local contractors will also be invited to bid for various components of the project. This project will have a significant, positive impact on the water infrastructure in Castle Bruce, Grand Fond, Riviere Cyrique, Morne Jaune, West Coast (Salisbury, Coulibistrie, Grand Savanne), and Calibishie as critical upgrades will ensure a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable water supply to these communities. As part of the preparatory phase of the project, initial groundwork has already begun in Grand Fond, where rehabilitation of the access road to the intake is ongoing. This marks the first step in what promises to be a transformative initiative for these communities. Further updates will be provided as the project progresses.

The Dominica Grammar School, represented by Rene Talbert and Tzaddi Trocard, will attempt to dethrone the Orion Academy, represented by Madleah Fontaine and Jazz Maxwell, in the final debate of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition 2025 edition. The Dominica Grammar School has excelled in this debate series, securing defeats over the St. Mary’s Academy, the St. Martin Secondary School and the Pierre Charles Secondary School in the three previous rounds of competition, marching their way to the finals for their first time. The Orion Academy is the reigning debate champion from the 2024 installment of the competition and as such entered this year’s series in Round 2, so far beating the Wesley High School and the Portsmouth Secondary School to land themselves once more in the finals. These two schools, both highly competitive, will argue a very topical issue at the finals. The topic up for debate will be “Introducing stricter penalties for causing death by dangerous driving would effectively reduce vehicular fatalities in Dominica.” The Dominica Grammar School team is coached by Mrs. Dorcus Francis-Simon, while Mrs. Abigail Woodman and Miss Adeola Xavier coach the Orion Academy team. It is anticipated to be a very interesting final debate, with the grand prize of an all expenses paid trip for four to St. Lucia up for grabs. The final debate is open to the general public and will be held at 11am on Wednesday 16th April at the Truth and Grace Fellowship Global. Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd, Insurance Company of the West Indies, the National Cooperative Credit Union, Lindo Mart, Dominica News Online, Freeman Consulting LLC, Fort Young Hotel and DBS Radio are the major sponsors of the finals of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition.   DGS Orion

The Awards Ceremony for the 2 nd Annual Regional Schools Investment Competition was held on 28th March 2025 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Attending the event in person was a large contingent of students and teachers from the Adelphi Secondary School, St Vincent, home of the Regional Champion, Adelphi Enterprise. The ceremony was also streamed virtually, enabling the Country winners in the other Eastern Caribbean Currency Union member countries to participate and be recognized, and to enable the public across the region to view the event. The winners, recognized during the ceremony, were: 1. Adelphi Enterprise, Adelphi Secondary School – Regional Champion and Country Winner for St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2. CHSS Emerging Investors, Choiseul Secondary School – Regional Runner Up, Country winner for Saint Lucia, and winner of the award for the most clearly presented strategic approach in the video submission. 3. Market Masters, Arthur Waldron Seventh Day Adventist Academy – Country winner for Dominica, and winner of the prize for the most creative video submission. 4. Green Magnates Enterprises, Irene B. Williams Secondary School – Country winner for Antigua and Barbuda 5. Boys on the Hill Investment, Grenada Boys Secondary School – Country winner for Grenada 6. Innovative Traders, Saddlers Secondary School – Country winner for St. Kitts and NevisThe Country winners received branded backpacks with gifts for each participating student, gift bags for teachers, certificates for both students and teachers and a plaque for the winning school. The winners of the video submissions awards also received cash prizes. The Regional Champion, Adelphi Enterprise, also received a cash prize for students in the form of a bank account to help them to begin their saving and investing journey, a fee waiver voucher for the teachers’ first investment transaction, a cash prize of EC$5,000 for the school and the Sir K Dwight Venner Regional Champion Trophy. The guest speaker at the ceremony was Mr Anson Latchman, a progressive young Vincentian professional, who encouraged the students to start their investment journey early. His inspiring address emphasized the benefits of compounding, diversification, and wealth creation. The competition was designed as a dynamic learning experience for high school and first-year college students, introducing them to investing while providing the opportunity to experience securities market activity firsthand. The initiative, a collaboration between the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE), the Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission (ECSRC) and the six licensed broker- dealers (First Citizens Investment Services Ltd, Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ltd, Bank of Saint Lucia Ltd, Grenada Co-operative Bank Ltd, St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Ltd and Bank of Nevis Ltd.), aims to stimulate an interest in investing among young persons and to foster their development into future market participants. - End -

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services  has partnered with DOMLEC  and DirectRelief  to install a 98KW photovoltaic system  at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital . This initiative aims to reduce the hospital’s operational costs  by subsidizing its electrical power consumption with renewable solar energy . The project, which aligns with Dominica’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency , is expected to make a significant impact  on the hospital’s long-term energy expenses. By utilizing solar power, the hospital will benefit from a more reliable and cost-effective energy source , ensuring continued efficiency in its daily operations. Officials from the Ministry of Health have welcomed this initiative, highlighting its environmental and financial benefits . A spokesperson noted that investing in renewable energy for critical facilities like hospitals is a step toward a more resilient and sustainable future . The installation of the 98KW photovoltaic system  represents a milestone in Dominica’s healthcare infrastructure , reinforcing the government’s efforts to enhance energy security and efficiency  in key sectors. Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking project as Dominica continues to lead the way in renewable energy integration .

The Dominica Association of Professional Engineers(D.A.P.E) proudly hosted its inaugural Engineering Award of Honour ceremony on Saturday, March 29, 2025, celebrating outstanding achievements and contributions in the engineering sector. The event, held at Villa Copthall, culminated Engineers’ Week 2025 and brought together industry leaders, distinguished guests, and honorees for an evening of inspiration, recognition, and celebration. The honorees were Lucien Blackmoore, Rawlins Bruney and Vivian Trotter. In her address, President of the D.A.P.E, Nicole Laville, stated that the Engineering Award of Honour aims to honor distinction, innovation, and dedication in field. “As we gather here, we are reminded that engineers are not just problem-solvers; we are visionaries. We don’t simply build structures; we build the future. We don’t just burst through mountains; we harness the very forces that drive progress. And tonight, as we recognize our colleagues for their dedication to excellence, let us take a moment to reflect on the power of innovation.” This year’s event highlighted the impact of individuals whose efforts have set new standards and created positive change. “Engineers have the ability to turn the smallest idea or the tiniest innovation into something truly powerful and transformative….Tonight, we celebrate those whose work has embodied this very principle. The engineers we honor today have demonstrated the ability to transform their skills, knowledge, and vision into tangible outcomes that have benefited not just the engineering community, but Dominica. Their dedication and tireless work have shaped the infrastructure, the technologies, and the innovations that define our local profession and our nation today,” Laville added. Blackmoore, in his remarks on behalf of the awardees, said engineering is about more than just building infrastructure. “I think the first building block: engineering is about building individuals. And so, I really want to reach out to the rest of my colleagues to continue to do what you doing. And tonight, what really gave me the honour is really trying to be an inspiration to the young ones…to realize it’s not only about the money, but most importantly is how effectively you can impact the better quality of life for people.” The event afforded guests, those with years of experience as well as those new to the field, the opportunity to network, reflect on the achievements of the past year, and look ahead at the future of engineering in Dominica. D.A.P.E extends sincere congratulations to the awardees and expresses gratitude to the sponsors who made Engineers’ Week successful.

Saint Kitts and Nevis, March 26, 2025- Recognizing the region’s vulnerability to multiple hazards and climate-induced displacement, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Government of St Kitts and Nevis, convened a two-day Regional Workshop titled Mainstreaming Human Mobility and Human Security in Caribbean Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Policies: Progress and Way Forward. This event marked the culmination of activities by IOM under the 15-month Human Security Joint Programme which was aimed at “Promoting a human security approach to disaster displacement, environmental migration and disaster risk reduction in the Caribbean Region”. The event underscored the importance of mainstreaming human mobility considerations into national climate and disaster risk reduction policies and plans, including CDEMA’s Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) Strategy and Country work Programme of Caribbean Countries. Patrice Quesada, IOM Coordinator for the Caribbean, in his remarks indicated that “We are really trying to bring a bit of light on one dimension that tends to be overlooked, which is the mobility dimension of hazard impact including climate related events especially here in the Caribbean from a human security standpoint”. Honourable Dr Joyelle Clarke, St Kitts and Nevis Minister for Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, in her opening remarks noted that “For small island developing states, especially Caribbean SIDS, responsiveness cannot be a monolith; our climate action efforts must mainstream human security and must relentlessly advocate for financing mechanisms and lending instruments that make space and sufficiently integrate human mobility into their frameworks”. She went on to say that “solutions must be SIDS specific and coastal Specific”. In support of the French Government Funded project that collaborated in hosting this event in St Kitts and Nevis, the workshop included informative discussions on leveraging innovative financial instruments for the implementation of climate mobility initiatives. An interactive training of trainers session was also conducted providing participants with hands-on approach with the process of applying the Environmental Migration, Disaster Displacement and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool that was developed to assess how national frameworks have thus far considered and make provisions to address human mobility issues. National stakeholders highlighted some of the best practices affirming the critical role of a multistakeholder approach. Mr. Simon Alleyne, Programme Officer with the Barbados Department of Emergency Management, in his comments reiterated that “a multistakeholder approach that includes Government Ministries, Departments, NGOs and Civil Society Organizations is necessary to deal with the issues of migration and to ensure that the needs of vulnerable people are addressed”. Kana Kudo representing the Donor, the UN Trust Fund for Human Security, says that “the Human Security Unit and the Trust Fund are proud to support a programme that aims to strengthen preparedness and responses through a more integrated, people-centered, and preventive approach...this programme is defining new strategies and partnerships to better address multifaceted insecurities, reduce vulnerability, and build resilience”. The implementation of the Joint Programme has made available to Caribbean Countries several resources to bolster their efforts towards managing human mobility in the context of disasters. This includes: · The Environmental Migration Disaster Displacement and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool to support policy harmonization · Training of the Trainers Manual and User Guide on the application of the Assessment Tool · 12 National Country Assessment Reports developed from the application of the Assessment Tool · A Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol for the protection of people crossing borders due to disasters · Best Practices to support mass population movement · OECS Ministerial Declaration on Migration Environment and Climate Change · Local Resilience Strategies from the application of the Disaster Resilience Scorecard for Cities: Displacement Addendum developed by UNDRR. · Training of Trainers Manual on the application of the Resilience Scorecard Coordinator for the Human Security Joint Programme, Viola Pascal, in summing up the achievements of this intervention indicated that “the project has succeeded in raising awareness in the Caribbean region of human mobility issues due to disasters and addressing them through the human security approach. National Disaster Offices have expressed their commitment to include measures to manage human mobility in their existing and upcoming disaster management policies and plans”.

Dominican Attorney at Law and Certified Mediator, Christine St. Marie, who currently practices law in Trinidad and Tobago calls on members of the Judiciary in Dominica to allow online bar calls. Ms. St. Marie says she has been wanting to be called to the bar in her native Dominica since her graduation from the Hugh Wooding Law School in 2021. She added that her previous efforts have proven futile since she was informed by the Court in Dominica that she must be present in person in order to get called. Ms. St. Marie states that due to personal circumstances she has not been able to travel to Dominica for her bar call and is appealing to the Court “get with the times” and allow online bar calls. “We live in a world of technology whereby the world has become a global village. Things that were not possible in ancient days are now possible, thanks to technology. I therefore see absolutely no reason whatsoever why one cannot be called to the Bar during an online sitting. ” Ms. St. Marie continued, “When I got called to the bar in Trinidad in 2021, it was done online due to the Covid Pandemic; being called online makes it no less meaningful and/or legitimate.” Ms. St. Marie who has been practicing law in the jurisdiction of Trinidad and Tobago for the past three years says she would like to expand her horizon and practice law in Dominica as well. She says she was prompted to make this call to the Judiciary in Dominica, especially when she read the heartbreaking news about some from her village being charged for murder and would have loved to be able to provide legal representation for him. Ms. St. Marie currently operates her own legal practice in Trinidad and Tobago, a specializes in a variety of areas including but not limited to Administrative Law, Judicial Review, Defamation, Employment Law, Family Law, Civil Litigation, Conveyancing and Probate.

The Climate Justice Movement (CJM) has announced the launch of its inaugural Climate Justice Essay Competition, aimed at inspiring and engaging the youth of Dominica in the fight for climate justice. This competition is open to all secondary school students across the island, providing them with an opportunity to voice their thoughts, concerns, and solutions regarding the urgent issue of climate change. In the wake of rising global temperatures and the escalating climate crises, CJM says it recognizes the vital role that the next generation will play in addressing the environmental challenges facing the Caribbean and the world. Through this competition, the organization hopes to empower students to think critically about climate change, its impact on their communities, and how they can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. Essay Theme: "What Climate Justice Means to me and my Community" The theme encourages students to explore the intersection of climate action, justice, and the responsibility of young people in pushing for policy changes and Climate Justice for their country. “We believe that the youth are the true leaders of tomorrow, ” said Ferdison Valmond, Founder of the Climate Justice Movement. “This competition provides them with a platform to express their ideas on how we can work together to build a more sustainable and just world. Our hope is that through their words and ideas, they can inspire others to take action.” Competition Guidelines: ● Eligibility: Open to all secondary school students in Dominica, Forms 2-4. ● Essay Length: 350-500 Words ● Deadline: Submissions must be received by April 30th , 2025. ● Essays must be typed and be the original work of the student. AI Detector tools will be used. ● Submission: Entries can be emailed to ClimatejusticemovementDominica@gmail.com It looks forward to receiving a large number of Entries from students across Dominica.

The Discover Dominica Authority unveiled the 2025 Jazz ‘n Creole Festival lineup during a virtual launch on Friday, March 28. The festival is scheduled for Sunday, May 4, at Fort Shirley in the Cabrits National Park, featuring an afternoon and evening of jazz, Caribbean rhythms, and cultural immersion, starting at 2:00 p.m. Headlining this year’s festival are top-tier local, regional, and international artists, including:  Dominica: Swingin’ Stars, Signal Band, ColtonT, Abiyah Israel, Marie Pascale, Shalina, and Carlyn XP.  Regional and international: Jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles from Trinidad and Tobago, opera and jazz singer Marie-Claire Giraud from Dominica and New York, and reggae star Etana from Jamaica. In the lead-up to the main event, a series of fringe events will take place across Dominica, offering visitors and locals an opportunity to enjoy intimate jazz performances, cultural showcases, and pre-festival celebrations. Full details will be announced soon. Attendees are encouraged to embrace "Sunset Creole Chic" a dress code inspired by the warm, radiant hues of a Dominican sunset—deep coral, rich gold, warm orange, vibrant red, and bright yellow, accented with peach, magenta, and muted teal. Flowy dresses, linen outfits, bold prints, and tropical accessories will capture the essence of Caribbean elegance. Complementing the fashion and music, festivalgoers can savor authentic Creole cuisine, explore local art exhibits, and enjoy family-friendly activities, all set against the backdrop of Dominica's Cabrits National Park. To provide continuous updates, weekly press conferences will begin on April 3rd and be held every Thursday at 10:00 a.m., streamed live on the Dominica Festivals Facebook page with media coverage from various outlets.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services is closely monitoring dual outbreaks of influenza (flu) and gastroenteritis (stomach flu) as the country faces a significant rise in cases, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children and those with weakened immune systems. This unprecedented situation is prompting increased efforts to mitigate the spread of both illnesses across communities. Health departments have reported a substantial increase in cases of both influenza and gastroenteritis in recent weeks. Flu cases are higher than anticipated for this time of year, with the number of hospitalizations steadily rising. Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, cough, body aches, and fatigue. Concurrently, gastroenteritis, characterized by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, is spreading rapidly, especially in community settings such as schools and daycare centers, and largely within the 1 to 14 year age groups. In response to the ongoing outbreaks, the Ministry, through local health authorities and healthcare providers, has implemented comprehensive strategies to curb the spread of both the flu and gastroenteritis. Additionally, primary care facilities, hospitals and healthcare providers are being supported with additional information and medical supplies to handle the increased patient load. The public, however, is reminded that necessary precautions should be taken, including, frequent hand washing with soap and water, staying home from school or work when ill, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, sanitization of frequently used spaces and objects, food safety measures and proper disposal of garbage and other waste. By adhering to preventive measures and seeking timely medical care, the public can help mitigate the impact of these outbreaks. Officials will continue to monitor the situation closely and work collaboratively across agencies to manage the dual outbreaks of flu and gastroenteritis. For additional information and updates, please visit the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page or contact your nearest health authority.