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ANGLICAN CHURCH SPEAKS

THE ANGLICAN BISHOP THE RT. REV. MICHAEL MAXWELL ISSUES A PRESS STATEMENT

The Anglican Church is deeply concerned about the intent and effect of the test, reportedly administered to some Secondary School students in Barbados on Monday, October 3, 2022. While it has been described as a “Computer Science pre-test,” some of the questions reported in the press and on Social Media, seem to go beyond standard demographic information. Best practice demands that the testing of ‘human subjects’ especially minors, should always be subjected to oversight by an ethics body, responsible to ensure that unintended harm is not done. In this case, it may be asserted that harm was done, both in the present and the future.

In an effort to constructively address the situation which involves a very important demographic within our society, that of our children, and ensure that there is never a repeat of an incident of this nature, the Church is concerned about and highlights the following matters:

Legally, ethically and practically parents should have been informed and consent sought, so that families would have had the choice to opt out of such an exercise. This is particularly important because in an age of data privacy concerns, based on what has been reported so far, the information gleaned seems deeply personal and sensitive; and could have potentially been used against participants as it is yet unclear as to who would have been the owners of the data and if the government had secured any legal assurances from the administrators of the test as to what will be any and all future use of the information sourced.
Since this matter has now become public and students now have a greater awareness of the potential harm to themselves, the following questions need to be raised and addressed:

Why was the test not reviewed by a ministry official before administration, given reported initial objections to a number of areas?
Will the test be administered to other children with the removal of the ‘questionable’ items, and if so, what is the ultimate validity and robust nature of the results?
Does the Ministry of Education have a standing ethics body responsible for creating guidelines and/or oversight for the testing of all students under their care? and
What provision will be made for the mental health care of the participants who have been adversely affected by their participation in the survey and who will finance this treatment.

This matter, in our view, goes beyond an issue of the questions being “offensive” and may very well be described as an act of abuse. Either the trust reposed by the ministry in the test provider, or by parents in the ministry, was abused, and the rendering of an apology ought not to be the final resolution to this matter. Children represent the most precious gift and resource to the nation and our families. They must be protected. When they are handed off by parents into the care of educators, care-givers, the church, we must all understand that we stand in “loco parentis” and must therefore do everything within our power to protect them, physically, mentally and socially from harm and danger.

In most developed countries, this matter would immediately, and most assuredly, result in legal action. The euphemism, “underrepresented groups” cannot be license to negatively impact vulnerable persons; most of all our precious minor children. They should never be viewed by anyone as merely research objects but gifts from God, intended to be the subjects of greatest concern, care, affection and positive regard; “…they are precious in [God’s] sight, [for He] loves the little children of the world.” (pic C’bean Broadcasting Corp)

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CTUSAB STANDS WITH BUT ON REINSTATEMENT OF TERM’S LEAVE

The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has voiced strong support for the Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) in its ongoing fight to have term’s leave reinstated for educators.

At a press conference held Thursday at the BUT headquarters, CTUSAB General Secretary Dennis De Peiza and President Ryan Phillips affirmed the Congress’ solidarity with the teachers’ union, indicating their readiness to back any form of industrial action the BUT considers necessary in response to the government’s continued inaction on key education-related matters.

De Peiza noted that although the Ministry of Education has verbally indicated it has no objections to the reinstatement of term’s leave, this assurance has yet to be formally documented

“You would recognise that there has been no significant or any movement regarding the teachers’ issues in terms of the matter of the term’s leave. We the Congress met with the Ministry of Education on this matter, and all that we can say out of our discussions with them is that the ministry is saying that they have no issue with the restoration of the term leave.
“BUT is demanding from the ministry that place] in writing what the ministry is saying around the table; they have not communicated to the Union of Teachers in writing. So it is my word at the table, but it’s nothing to validate that,” he said.

He further added and the escalating reports of violence and indiscipline at some schools was a great concern.

He said, “The growing indiscipline in our schools and the poor examples being set by adults and even some of our leaders is a real cause for concern. It’s about time that the citizens of this country take a stand and support a call for the removal of policies which undermine discipline in our schools and have empowered children. There must be the restoration of the authority which was once entrusted to principals and teachers at schools,”

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The Confucius Institute Successfully Hosts 24th International Chinese Bridge Competition

On Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, the Confucius Institute at The University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus, in partnership with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, hosted its annual Chinese Bridge Competition. Held at the Confucius Institute building, this prestigious event provides a platform for Chinese language students to showcase and enhance their linguistic and cultural skills while deepening their understanding of China’s rich heritage.

*Secondary School participant, Davesha Chassang performing a traditional Chinese dance*

The competition featured three categories—Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary levels—allowing students to demonstrate their abilities through speeches, cultural knowledge quizzes, and performances in traditional Chinese art forms. Participants represented schools and institutions across Barbados that have partnered with the Confucius Institute to deliver Chinese language instruction to Barbadian students.

Distinguished Panel of Judges

The competition was evaluated by an esteemed panel including: a representative from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, Ms. Kerri-Ann Haynes-Knight representing the Office of the Principal UWI Cave Hill, Ms. Philomena Lee from the Chinese Association of Barbados, Ms. Sabrina Hoyte representing the Barbados-China Returned Scholars Association, Professor Nie Lu (Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute), and Dr. Ché Corbin (Local Director of the Confucius Institute).

*Winners of the Secondary school competition pictured with judges*

Record Participation and Innovation

This year’s competition achieved unprecedented growth, with significant increases in Primary and Secondary school participation. Secondary school participants rose to 10 students—a five-fold increase from last year’s 2 participants—while Primary school entries grew from 12 to 15 students. The Tertiary level featured two accomplished participants.

*Primary school participants receiving certificates from Judges*

The competition also showcased remarkable diversity in talent performances, with several notable firsts including food preparation demonstrations, traditional dressmaking, and a captivating Guzheng performance at the Primary level. Both judges and audience members were impressed by the artistry and confidence displayed by the young competitors, reflecting not only the students’ dedication but also the Institute’s committed investment in their development.

Recognition and Encouragement

Following the performances, speeches, and quizzes, all participants received prizes and certificates in recognition of their achievements. The judging panel addressed the students, encouraging continued language study and emphasizing the valuable opportunities that Chinese language proficiency can provide. Special commendation was given to the Institute’s teachers and students’ parents for their unwavering support and guidance.

Acknowledgments

The Confucius Institute extends its gratitude to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for their continued support of the Chinese Bridge Competition and the promotion of Chinese language and culture in Barbados. The Institute also congratulates all participating students and wishes the competition winners success as they advance to represent Barbados in the global competition in China later this year.

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Eleven St. John Recipients Receive Pride Of Barbados Awards

Eleven persons from St. John who have contributed substantially to the development of the parish and its residents over the years have received Pride of Barbados Awards.

The St. John honourees were presented with their insignias by President of Barbados, Her Excellency The Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason yesterday morning at State House. President Mason thanked the awardees for their dedication and acts towards the development of her ‘home’ parish and encouraged them to continue their efforts.

The fifth batch of honourees receiving insignias, as part of the We Gatherin’ 2025 initiative, were: Richard Arthur, Pearson Bellamy, J.P., Neville Bridgeman, Sonia Burgess-Haynes, Dr. Keisha Gustave, Samantha Haynes, J.P., De Andra Howard, Myrtle Husbands, Roland Waithe, Dale Lashley and Diaspora Awardee Lennox Llewellyn Padmore.

Areas for which the awardees were recognised included humanitarianism and philanthropy; lifelong dedicated service to the Codrington Estate; leadership; excellence in public health; community empowerment; educating and mentoring young people; promoting sporting excellence; and agriculture.

Following the ceremony, three awardees shared with the media their reaction to being recipients of the Pride of Barbados Award.

Pearson Bellamy, J.P., age 83, is a former teacher, meteorologist and government printer. He was recognised for being a steward of culture, a guardian of truth, and a living archive for his dedicated service as a community griot and cultural icon.

“I’m happy to be honoured today. Thank God that He’s given me the privilege to…receive this honour this morning,” Mr. Bellamy stated.

He added: “For the past 63 years, I’ve been working with the youth, with the old, and with everybody else with respect to drama, folk singing, music, and I was president of a number of organisations in St. John. And I’m happy to share that as long as I have strength and the energy, I will continue to do so.”

Eighty-year-old Shopkeeper Myrtle Husbands said: “I am very humble and grateful to the Government and people of St. John.”

She is known for her invaluable contributions to improving the lives of the disadvantaged, uplifting the vulnerable, protecting and providing refuge to battered women and hope to underprivileged children, as well as fostering a more caring and cohesive community in Colleton, St. John.

When asked what drives her to assist others, she responded: “I think it’s just me … it comes natural. When I see people in need, I help them. If I see people, you know, like disadvantaged, I try to give them any assistance that I can.”

She advised younger persons in the community to put God first in their lives and to help any person in need.

Meanwhile, De Andra Howard, a 42-year-old teacher at the Mount Tabor Primary, expressed her surprise and delight at being awarded. “It feels amazing,” she remarked.

She has been awarded for her leadership, creativity and unswerving commitment to community development, promoting the Rights of the Child and fostering Health and Family Life Education, as well as national anti-violence initiatives. Ms. Howard emphasised the importance of hard work and perseverance.

“You know, sometimes you work hard behind the scenes and you say you’re never going to be recognised. But as I always say to my students and to the young people that I inspire, work hard and someday it will pay off, somebody will recognise you.” (PR/GIS)

Caption: President of Barbados, Her Excellency The Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason (centre) poses with ten of the Pride of Barbados Awardees from St. John at State House