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The Jamaica-based company scales up relief efforts with additional care packages, free mobile plans and other vital supplies to help communities recover from the storm — Digicel Group and the Digicel Jamaica Foundation have launched a major humanitarian initiative to support recovery efforts across the hardest hits parts of Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa. The joint relief effort will deliver nearly 12,000 care packages that include essential supplies to residents in the western parishes most affected by the storm, including Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Hanover, St. James, and Trelawny. As part of its Reconnecting Jamaica effort, Digicel and the Foundation have already delivered more than 1,500 food care packs to families in need and is preparing to distribute an additional 10,000 care packages in the coming days. These packages include essential food supplies such as water, rice, oil, and other staples to support households most affected by the storm. In addition, the Foundation is also providing hygiene care packs for men, women, and children, as well as LED solar lanterns, LED headlamps, and rechargeable emergency LED bulbs to assist families still without power. To help rebuild homes and restore livelihoods, Digicel and the Foundation are also providing hardware certificates that will allow residents to purchase construction materials directly from local suppliers. This initiative empowers homeowners to buy what they need to rebuild safely and sustainably within their own communities. Helping Families Reconnect and Recover “At Digicel, we are committed to ensuring that Jamaica stays connected, not just through our network, but through care, compassion, and community,” said Marcelo Cataldo, CEO of Digicel Group. “In times like this, our responsibility goes beyond business. We’re focused on helping families rebuild, restoring hope, and supporting the government’s recovery efforts across the parishes hit hardest by Hurricane Melissa.” The Digicel Foundation, which has been at the heart of community development for nearly two decades, has mobilized its staff and volunteers across the island to coordinate on-the-ground distribution and outreach. Digicel is also distributing hundreds of SIM cards with data plans to relief workers supporting recovery operations. For customers whose service was disrupted, Digicel is offering complimentary prepaid plans with 30 minutes of voice calls and 2GB of data, as well as 30-day postpaid plans with 10GB of data once service is restored. Meanwhile, mobile charging stations have been deployed on Digicel buses, visiting impacted communities, enabling residents to charge their devices and communicate with loved ones. The team is also working with the Government of Jamaica to help fill its environmental and health supply needs like hand-held foggers, DPD testing tablets, turbidity meters, blood pressure machines among other items. Alongside this, Digicel will be launching voice and text donation lines across its markets, standing up a crowdsourcing campaign to make it easier for customers throughout the region to contribute directly to relief efforts. Donation bins have also been placed on each floor of Digicel’s Kingston headquarters, so staff can donate non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, clothing, and bedding to support those in need. “Our Reconnecting Jamaica mission is about restoring dignity, stability, and access to basic necessities for those who need it the most,” said Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation. “We’ve seen the devastation firsthand in communities across the island. These care packages are more than just supplies, they’re a message that they’re not alone, and we’re here for the long haul.” Rebuilding with Resilience Across the island, Digicel’s network teams remain committed and have been working around the clock, every day, to reconnect customers impacted by the storm as quickly as possible.  “As we restore connectivity, we’re also rebuilding communities,” added Stephen Murad, CEO of Digicel Jamaica. “Reconnecting Jamaica is our sole focus. We’re proud of our teams who have gone above and beyond to bring service back online, while also volunteering in the distribution of relief supplies. This is what being a part of the Digicel family is all about, standing with our customers when they need us most.”

Dominica has once again proven that the rhythm of Creole culture beats strongest on the Nature Island. The 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) surpassed expectations, drawing over 42,000 patrons across three unforgettable nights, a remarkable leap from 30,217 in 2024. Visitor arrivals soared to 10,540 in the nine days leading up to the festival, marking a 48% increase compared to the same period last year, the highest pre-festival performance ever recorded. This surge created a vibrant boost for tourism, with an even greater ripple effect across small businesses, transportation, hospitality, entertainment and the creative sector.   “Dominicans welcomed the world, and the world responded,” said Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister for Tourism. “The success of our 25th anniversary festival reflects not just great planning but the passion, creativity and resilience of our people. The multiplier effect from this single weekend is being felt across every corner of the economy, from taxi operators and vendors to hotels and artisans. This is how culture drives growth.”   Across the island, hotels reported full or near-full occupancy. Restaurants, nightspots and tour companies extended operations to meet unprecedented demand from visitors traveling from Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, North America and Europe. The festival’s success underscored the loyalty of regional patrons and their deep connection to Dominica’s Creole music.   Local and regional artists delivered electrifying performances that celebrated Dominica’s musical identity and proudly showcased the island’s creative excellence to the world. Vendors and community entrepreneurs also reported strong commercial success, demonstrating how the festival uplifts lives and sustains livelihoods.   Minister Charles-Pemberton expressed special thanks to the Government of Dominica, sponsors, media partners, volunteers, security services and especially to the Discover Dominica Authority team whose dedication made the milestone edition a triumph. “This success was not by chance,” she added. “It was the result of teamwork, strategic investment and faith in the power of our people and our culture.”   As the 25th edition celebration closes, plans are already underway to make WCMF 2026 an even greater experience,  one that continues to position Dominica as the Caribbean’s leading nature and culture destination. Visitors are encouraged to book early and return to the Nature Island, where music, nature, and Creole pride unite.

The Nature Island unveils new offers, experiences and destination updates timed with the new destination campaign   – The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) has launched Nature of Love , a campaign that celebrates Dominica’s unspoiled beauty and how its landscapes inspire romance, adventure and meaningful connection. Designed for nature lovers, couples, families and solo travelers, the campaign positions Dominica as a place to experience togetherness, personal renewal and the beauty of pure nature. Named one of the Best Places in the World to Travel in 2026  by National Geographic , Dominica offers distinct experiences that bring visitors closer to nature.   “The Nature of Love campaign invites travelers to experience Dominica through meaningful connections,” said Marva Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the Discover Dominica Authority. “Couples can find romance, families can reconnect and solo travelers can focus on personal well-being. Our people, culture and natural surroundings work together to create a sense of renewal that stays with visitors long after they leave.”   The Nature Island is renowned for its immersive nature and adventure experiences. Visitors can explore the Waitukubuli National Trail, the longest hiking trail in the Caribbean, trek to Boiling Lake, the second largest in the world, swim alongside sperm whales and discover world-class diving sites teeming with marine life. The island’s lush rainforests, towering mountain peaks, more than 360 rivers and cascading waterfalls provide a striking backdrop for romance, adventure and personal renewal, setting the stage for lasting memories and intimate experiences crafted for connection.   Experiences Dominica’s newest experiences highlight the island’s spirit of adventure, sustainability and community: ·         Extreme Dominica now offers an advanced canyoning excursion through the iconic Trois Piton Canyon, a full-day experience led by two expert guides ideal for experienced adventurers seeking a new challenge. ·         The Waitukubuli Sea Trail has expanded with new accommodations along its 40-mile, 14-segment route, making the trail more accessible to paddlers of all skill levels. Paddlers can also book a guided Indian River excursion as part of the Sea Trail to explore Dominica’s most famous and widest river from kayak. ·          Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa’s new Rosalie Bay Distillery is the world’s first and only conservation distillery, now open for tours and tastings. Guests can enjoy award-winning rum while investing in sea turtle conservation, coral reef restoration, whale protection and the management of protected areas in Dominica, as 100% of all proceeds are directly reinvested into these efforts.   Hotel News Dominica’s luxury resorts and eco-lodges are unveiling exciting new amenities this season: ·         Secret Bay will debut four new Clifftop Villas this November, including two Zabuco and two Ti-Fèy villas, followed by the start of construction on nine new Waterfront Villas in December. ·         Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort will expand its dive fleet this November with Glorieux , a 36-foot vessel accommodating up to 22 divers or 30 passengers for group dives, private charters and signature swim-with-the-whales excursions. ·         Sea Cliff Eco Cottages & Gin Distillery will debut a new clifftop bar and swimming pool by year’s end, featuring “garden-to-glass" cocktails, a boutique and a tranquil yoga pavilion overlooking the ocean.   Packages and Promotions Dominica’s hotels continue to enhance their offerings with new packages and experiences designed for every traveler: ·         Jungle Bay has launched an all-inclusive Adventure Wellness Package that includes airport transfers, accommodations, all-organic meals and juices, island exploration, on-site activities and daily spa treatments. ·          Coulibri Ridge expands its honeymoon offerings with the new Dominica is For Lovers Honeymoon Package , available in three-, five- and seven-night options. Each includes guided hikes, couples’ massages and romantic excursions showcasing the island’s natural beauty. ·         Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa introduces three new packages for the 2026 season — the Romance Escape Package, Winter Wellness Retreat and Solo Explorer Package — each combining all-inclusive dining, spa treatments and curated island adventures.   Accessibility Increased demand for travel to Dominica continues into 2025 with several airlines expanding service: ·         Contour Airlines has launched new nonstop flights connecting Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico and Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to Dominica’s Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM). These new routes mark Contour’s official entry into the Caribbean market and significantly enhance regional connectivity. ·         United Airlines will expand its nonstop service from Newark Liberty International Airport to DOM beginning October 29, adding a midweek Wednesday flight to complement its existing Saturday service. ·          American Airlines has increased its service from Miami International Airport (MIA) to DOM, now offering two daily flights ahead of the busy winter travel season. ·          Caribbean Airlines has expanded service from Toronto via Port of Spain, now operating up to four times weekly southbound and twice weekly northbound with connections to San Juan and Trinidad.

Vescort Jones is pleased to announce that he has been reinstated to his position as Aviation Security Officer with the Dominica Air and Seaports Authority (DASPA). Today’s reinstatement comes 10 years and 10 months after he was dismissed in circumstances that were both regrettable and deeply unfortunate. Following the failure of the Labour Tribunal over ten years to reach a decision on the claim for wrongful dismissal and the appointment of a second tribunal for a new hearing, the parties engaged in recent months and an amicable settlement, including a compensation package satisfactory to Mr. Jones, has been agreed. Mr. Jones welcomes this resolution and expresses appreciation for the fair and constructive approach taken by his employer in bringing closure to the matter thereby allowing him to return to a profession he enjoys and in which he has served with dedication, integrity, and distinction over the years: “I am very happy to return to the job I have always loved. Aviation security has been my passion and my calling. I thank my family, my attorney, all those who believed in me, supported me, and stood by me throughout my long and difficult pursuit of justice.” Mr. Jones looks forward to continuing his service to the people of Dominica and contributing once again to the safety, security and efficiency of the nation’s air and sea port operations.

Regional journalists from select Caribbean countries entering the 37th Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) Media Awards now can vie for a newly launched SDG Champion Award, recognizing outstanding contributions in print, radio, television, and digital media that spotlight the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This new category, introduced through a partnership between the United Nations Barbados and Eastern Caribbean Office and the CBU, aims to celebrate journalistic excellence that drives sustainable development and inspires meaningful action. Eligible countries include Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Speaking during a recent media webinar, CBU President Anthony Greene emphasized the media’s pivotal role in advancing the SDGs, both professionally and personally. “We help those who can influence the achievement of the SDGs to understand why they should lend their resources and efforts to this cause,” Greene noted. “But as media, we are not just instruments to be used by others. We also need to appreciate that the SDGs are for us as well as residents of developing countries and territories, and as the media and communications sector.” Kenroy Roach, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, expressed hope that the award would deepen collaboration between the UN and regional media: “We know we work well together on many fronts, but hopefully this can be another pillar in our very strong collaboration.” Roach also reminded participants that the SDGs, adopted by 192 Member States in 2015, represent a global commitment: “It is important that we recognize that the SDGs are not only a UN agenda, but also the countries’ agenda. It is the leaders of the world who came together and recognized the need for urgent action for people and planet.” The recent webinar also provided valuable technical insights into the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), their significance for the region, and effective approaches to SDG storytelling. Jabari Fraser, Public Information Officer at ECLAC Caribbean, in his session “Why the SDGs Matter,” encouraged journalists to guide their editors in distinguishing between what is important and what is urgent. He emphasized the value of considering the broader context and conducting thorough research to produce stories with lasting impact. Meanwhile, Martina Donlon, Chief of Climate and Sustainable Development at the UN Department of Global Communications, presented on “What’s a Great Story about the SDGs?” She highlighted the importance of focusing on science and solutions, and inspiring action by addressing the three W’s: What, Why Care, and What Now? Sonia Gill, CBU Secretary General, offered journalists an overview of the new SDG Champion Award categories, criteria, and rules. She noted that eligible entries should connect the Global Goals to real people’s lives, communicate complex issues—such as climate change or inequality—in clear, accessible language, and foster an environment where the SDGs are actively championed. She further emphasized that content should be data-driven, solution- oriented, and, where possible, inspire action. Entries for the 37th Annual CBU Media Awards will open in late November 2025 and close at midnight (ECT) on February 28, 2026. Nominees will be announced in June 2026, with the awards presentation scheduled for August 2026. For further information, journalists are invited to view the recent Media Webinar via this link, and for competition rules and entry details they can visit the CBU website at http://www.caribroadcastunion.org / or email cbumediaawards@caribroadcastunion.org when the Call for Entries is issued next month.

By: Chalsey Gill Anthony, Environmental Communicator, on behalf of Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)   When Hurricane Melissa ripped across the Caribbean just a few days ago, it damaged roads and power lines and disrupted the way thousands of people earn a living. In Jamaica, entire sections of St. Elizabeth, the country’s “breadbasket”, were flooded, threatening food supplies far beyond the parish itself. At one point, more than three-quarters of Jamaica’s electricity customers lost power as the JPS network took a major hit. Heavy rains and flooding also occurred in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, killing dozens of people, washing out homes, and leaving families without basic resources and services. These are the kinds of climate shocks our region now faces almost every year. But the real story unfolds after the storm has passed: farmers can’t replant because their pumps, seedlings and investments are gone; vendors can’t sell because the market building or electricity is down; fishers can’t go out to sea because their boats and docks are destroyed; tourism and service workers lose shifts as hotels, ports or tour sites repair storm damages. One household’s “hidden” loss quickly ripples across entire communities. A farmer’s lost harvest means less produce in the market. A fisher’s broken boat means fewer fish on dinner tables. A vendor’s closed stall means fewer goods available to households. In other words, the livelihood loss of one household quickly becomes the hardship of many. Those are real economic losses. And they fall hardest on the people working informally, the very people our food systems and local markets depend on. National governments are responding. They clear roads, restore power, reopen schools, and, in Jamaica’s case, the Prime Minister outlined immediate relief and early recovery priorities in his October 27 national address about Hurricane Melissa. Shelters were opened across affected communities; evacuation orders were enforced for flood-prone areas; and security forces were deployed to maintain order. The government also activated a price-control order to prevent gouging on essential goods, while the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries prepared a recommended price list to stabilize markets.  J$400 million was allocated for emergency drain-cleaning and constituency mitigation, with additional support to farmers and fishers to help restart production. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the JDF were tasked with coordinating national relief, while the Ministry of Health launched mosquito-control operations to reduce post-storm disease risk. And, importantly, Jamaica’s disaster-risk financing instruments — the National Natural Disaster Risk Fund, the Contingency Fund, and other insurance/credit instruments  — were activated to ensure quick access to response funds. But even strong national action can’t quickly cover thousands of small, scattered losses, the vehicles that washed away, the market stall roofs that collapsed, the small poultry sheds that drowned, or the weeks of income lost as a result. That gap is exactly what the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)’s 2025 research on Climate and Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance (CDRFI) found across five Caribbean countries: 79% of organizations serving vulnerable people had no disaster budget, and 80% weren’t even collecting regular member fees — so when a Melissa-level storm hits, there’s no local pot or social safety net to turn to. That is why CPDC argues for meso-level CDRFI. It is a model that uses the institutions people already trust (credit unions, cooperatives, community-based organizations) to deliver money faster and more fairly after a shock. Instead of waiting months for a national programme to reach a disaster-affected area, local community groups could: get a quick payout because the storm met a trigger ( parametric insurance ), top it up for people who lost more than the average ( indemnity insurance ), and use its own small reserve to help members restock, repair, or even relocate to keep earning ( community savings fund ). This is not a replacement for government aid and resources. We absolutely need big public systems for roads, electricity, ports, hospitals and schools. But Hurricane Melissa showed, again, that people also need a community-level financial shield to protect their income, food supply and dignity while national systems get back up. Last year it was Beryl. This year it’s Melissa. Next year, it will be another name. The climate threat over the Caribbean is now permanent. The question for the region is: will we keep rebuilding from zero every season, or will we build financial systems that let farmers, fishers, vendors, tourism and other informal workers bounce back faster? Every time families are forced to abandon their livelihoods, the Caribbean loses not only income but also knowledge, traditions, and community strength. Protecting livelihoods isn’t just about money; it’s about protecting who we are as a people. CPDC has started that conversation with evidence from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada and Jamaica. Caribbean media, CSOs, governments and financial cooperatives are invited to read the research and join the regional discussion on practical, people-centred disaster finance via the CPDC Risk Resilience Hub .  Our region is now at the point where we need to turn disaster lessons, from Hurricane Melissa and every storm before it, into long-term protection. PHOTO CAPTIONS: 1.  Community members sift through storm-tossed debris in Black River, Jamaica, days after Hurricane Melissa swept the coast. Photo Credit - Matias Delacroix 2. Drone image captures residents navigating down a flood-scarred street in Black River, Jamaica, as recovery begins following Hurricane Melissa. Photo Credit - Maria Alejandra Cardona

The much anticipated second staging of the Grenada Caribbean Music Festival (GCMF) is set for Saturday, November 8, 2025, at he Lawn, at The Lawn at Port Louis, St. Georges. Last year, the summer debut of the festival received high marks from patrons, gaining regional and international attention. Presented by ORA Caribbean, the festival promises a stellar lineup of artistes and an elevated experience for patrons. The festival stage will feature a blend of some of Grenada’s top talents with some of the Caribbean’s most compelling contemporary voices. This year's GCMF will be an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture and sound, anchored by a powerful reggae showing from Jamaica, headlined by Grammy-nominated artiste Protoje, who will be bringing his globally acclaimed catalogue to the main stage. Fellow Jamaican artistes Mortimer and Sevana, will bring their soulful reggae artistry to the lineup. Grenada’s musical excellence will once again take centre stage, with home-grown stars Sakinah, Khole Baldeo, V’ghn, Boyzie, Dash, Terra D Governor, Dred Lion, Wuss Ways and Tallpree set to deliver energetic performances. Organisers promise an expanded experience for the second edition, with enhanced stage production, curated food and drink options, and upgraded patron amenities. The festival is expected to welcome more than 3,500 attendees and will once again activate its vendor village and hospitality offerings, spotlighting local flavours and small businesses. “Last year laid the foundation and this year is about elevation,” shared ORA Caribbean, organisers of the festival. “Grenada is rich with talent and creativity, and the Grenada Caribbean Music Festival is our way of celebrating that spirit while creating a home for Caribbean artistry to flourish. We look forward to welcoming music lovers from across the region and the world to Grenada, not only to experience the festival but to also enjoy the beauty and vibrant culture of the Spice Island.” The festival gates open at 4:00 PM and the experience continues until 12:30 AM, offering a full evening of live music, culture, and community in one of Grenada’s most scenic waterfront venues.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to regional partnership and destination excellence with the successful completion of a high-impact sales mission to Trinidad and Tobago. The initiative underscored Grenada’s dedication to deepening trade relations, inspiring travelers and showcasing the island’s signature blend of authenticity, luxury and innovation. The four day engagement unfolded across both Port of Spain and San Fernando, featuring a vibrant mix of business, culture, and connection. It included two well-attended travel agent dinners, first at the elegant Hyatt Regency Port of Spain, followed by the charming Royal Hotel in San Fernando, where the Grenadian delegates met with top travel agents to share updates on the destination’s expanding tourism offerings. Representatives from some of Grenada’s premier accommodations and tour operators came together to showcase the island’s diversity of accommodation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Each partner brought to life the depth and distinctiveness of the Grenadian experience. Adding to the energy, representatives from the aviation and event sectors infused the mission with their own unique contributions. They highlighted the seamless regional connectivity through Caribbean Airlines and the creativity of Spicemas Corporation, whose cultural showcases with performances by “Muddy”, the 2025 Power Soca Monarch Winner and rising soca artist “Dred Lion”, brought an authentic taste of Grenada’s spirit, rhythm to Trinidad. Building on this momentum, the mission also featured an intimate luxury business luncheon that brought together Grenadian tourism stakeholders and leading Trinidadian entrepreneurs. The event, hosted in collaboration with Silversands Grenada, fostered meaningful discussions around luxury travel, investment opportunities, and sustainable development within the Caribbean tourism landscape. To connect directly with consumers, the Grenada Tourism Authority brought the sights, sounds, and flavours of the Spice Isle to life with an immersive pop-up experience at C3 Mall in San Fernando. The vibrant activation transformed the space into a slice of Grenada, inviting shoppers and passersby to discover the island’s lush natural beauty, rich culture, and signature warmth. The pop-up generated remarkable buzz and inspired countless Trinidadians to plan their own journey to experience ‘Pure Grenada, the Spice of the Caribbean.’ Throughout the mission, Grenada’s story reached even wider audiences through a robust slate of media appearances and interviews with top outlets including The Trinidad Guardian, 96.7 Red FM, Hot 93 and Caribbean Passport, each amplifying Grenada’s message of connection, creativity, and growth. “As our largest regional market, Trinidad and Tobago remains a vital partner for us. The enthusiasm we’ve experienced on this mission is a strong signal that travelers are ready to discover, and rediscover the Spice Isle.” said Tornia Charles, Chief Marketing Officer “This mission reaffirmed Grenada’s position as a leading destination for authentic Caribbean experiences.” From the new, world-class Six Senses La Sagesse to the eco-chic charm of True Blue Bay Resort, and the pulsating creativity of Spicemas, Grenada is redefining what it means to experience the Caribbean. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and community, the GTA continues to position the destination as both a beacon of hospitality and a leader in regional tourism collaboration.

By Natasha Greaves, Head of Office, IOM Dominica As Dominica celebrates 47 years of Independence under the inspiring theme “47 Years of Progress and Purpose,” the International Organization for Migration (IOM) extends warm congratulations to the Government and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica. This year’s theme invites reflection on the nation ’s remarkable journey since independence one defined by courage, unity, and the determina:on to build a resilient future. It celebrates the achievements of the past 47 years while challenging all citizens to con:nue advancing with purpose ensuring that progress benefits every Dominican, at home and abroad. Though not Dominican by birth, I have had the privilege of witnessing first-hand the strength and spirit of this na:on. The people of Dominica embody resilience; rebuilding after storms, finding opportunity in challenge, and nurturing a culture that is vibrant, creative, and proud. At the International Organization for Migration, we believe that purpose-driven progress means ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable. In Dominica, IOM continues to work alongside government, communities, and partners to strengthen resilience and support national priorities. Our work includes disaster preparedness and response, livelihood recovery, climate resilience initiatives, and support for migrants and vulnerable communities. Migration, when managed with dignity and foresight, can be a catalyst for national development— empowering families, connecting communities, and contributing to social and economic progress. IOM’s mission in Dominica aligns closely with the country’s vision for a future where no one is left behind. As we celebrate this 47th Independence Anniversary, may the theme remind us all that progress without purpose is incomplete. The spirit of unity, courage, and compassion that has carried Dominica through the past decades will continue to light the path ahead. On behalf of IOM Dominica, I extend sincere congratulations to the Government and people of Dominica. May this Independence be a celebration of not just how far the nation has come — but how much further it will go, guided by purpose, creativity, and the collective strength of its people. Happy Independence, Dominica! 🇩🇲

The Dominica State College (DSC) has announced the opening of applications for the January 2026 semester , beginning November 10th, 2025 . Applications will be available online through the DSC website and official social media platforms. The College encourages all interested persons—whether recent secondary school graduates, continuing students, or adult learners—to review programme options and admission requirements ahead of the opening date. According to the College, this upcoming admission period aligns with its ongoing efforts to provide wider access to quality tertiary education and technical training in Dominica. The January intake offers opportunities across the College’s various faculties and programmes, supporting students’ academic and career goals. For further information or assistance with the application process, individuals may contact the College’s admissions office at 255-8101/6/31  or visit www.dsc.edu.dm . The Dominica State College remains committed to fostering excellence, innovation, and opportunity through education.

The Dominica Robotics Association (DRA)  has announced that a team of five Dominican students will represent the island at the FIRST Global Robotics Challenge 2025 , scheduled to take place in Panama . The international event brings together young innovators from around the world to design and build robots that address real-world challenges through the application of science, technology, engineering, and teamwork. Representing Dominica are: From the Dominica State College (DSC) Dianka George Cadel Casimir Khae-Ryan Shillingford From St. Mary’s Academy (SMA) Jahim Riviere-Alfred Kaelan Matthew The team is guided by Mentor Phoenix Jacques  and Co-Mentor Odessa Dinnard , who will provide technical and strategic support throughout their preparation and competition journey. The DRA expressed gratitude to its sponsors and community partners — Create Caribbean, NTRC, 767.Dev , Jaydees Naturals, and Astaphans  — for their continued commitment to advancing STEM education and youth innovation in Dominica. The Dominica Robotics Association commended the students for their dedication and teamwork, noting that their participation reflects Dominica’s growing presence in the global technology and innovation arena. The team will now intensify preparations for the upcoming challenge, where they will join peers from more than 190 countries in celebrating creativity, collaboration, and engineering excellence. Best wishes to Team Dominica as they showcase the island’s innovation and talent on the world stage.

Eighteen (18) individuals and one (1) group will receive Meritorious Service Awards during the ceremony to observe Dominica’s 47th anniversary of independence on November 3, 2025. Late Prime Ministers Roosevelt Bernard “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles will be posthumously awarded the nation’s highest honour, the Dominica Award of Honour, in recognition of their sterling contributions to national development. Chief Executive Officer of the International Airport Development Company Mr. Samuel Johnson, Religious Leader, Rev. J Evans Dodds and medical doctor, Dr. Basil Fadipe will receive Dominica’s second highest award, the Sisserou Award of Honour. Ms. Hannah Clarendon (Agriculture and Trade), Mr. Lennox Abraham (Child Welfare and Sports), Mr. Titus Francis (Community Development and Local Governance), Dr. Victor Emanuel (Medicine), Mr. Boniface Lloyd (Religion and Agriculture), Mrs. Shirley Augustine (Nursing and Health Management), Mrs. Anita Bully (Culture and Creative Industries), Mr. Hague Thomas (Environmental Health and Community Development), Mr. Prosper Paris (Culture and Community Development) and the 3rd Mahaut Scout Troop (Youth Development and Volunteerism) will receive the Meritorious Service Award. Mr. Elroy Pioche (Agriculture and Community Service), Mr. Ibrahim Brohim (Business), Ms. Caesarina Ferrol (Nursing) and Mr. Irving Williams (Public Service) will be awarded the Services Medal of Honour. The awards will be presented on Monday, November 3, 2025 at the Independence Day Observance Ceremony at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium from 5:00p.m.