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,”

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.

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).

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.

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.

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