Government

Barbados Represented At WTO’s Advanced Trade Policy Course

The World Trade Organization’s eight-week Advanced Trade Policy (ATP) Course, in Geneva, Switzerland, whose Patron was Barbados’ Ambassador to the United Nations, World Trade Organization and other International Organizations in Geneva, Matthew Wilson, ended on Friday, March 14.

The ATP course, which began on January 20, was attended by 28 government officials from developing WTO members and observers, including Barbados. The aim was to develop participants’ autonomy in conducting WTO-related work, thereby enhancing participants’ expertise in implementing WTO agreements, elaborating trade policies and sharpening negotiation skills.

Ambassador Wilson addressed the participants at the beginning, middle and end of the course, and piloted, for the first time, a one-on-one discussion with the participants on matters ranging from career aspirations to planning for the WTO’s next Ministerial Conference, to navigating the ‘tariff war’.

At the opening of the session, Ambassador Wilson said: “Multilateralism must never be taken for granted. Gaining a seat at the negotiating table is not easy. To influence global politics – whether it be trade, human rights, climate change or the digital revolution, it is crucial to work with other economies on consolidating global cooperation.”

During the eight weeks, the participants focused on WTO legal texts, simulated negotiations, participated in moot court sessions, held round-table discussions and were able to attend various high-level meetings, including the WTO’s General Council, the highest decision making body of the WTO in Geneva, and attending two WTO Presidential lectures.

In his closing session with the participants, Ambassador Wilson said: “Our voices and perspectives as developing countries matter. Many of us are middle powers in size or in influence. We can be the ones that bring balance, that bring more inclusive views and that bring the real world impact of trade policies to the global platform.”

He challenged all the representatives to “go back home and teach what you have been taught, build the capacity of your colleagues, meet with the Chambers of Commerce or business support organisations to share what you have learnt and connect them to the incredible tools and resources available here at the WTO and wider international Geneva.”

Mr. Wilson added: “I need you to go home and be Ambassadors for the WTO and for multilateralism.”

Participants in the just concluded ATP course came from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Pacific, Central and Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. (PR/GIS)

Government

Cohort 7 Of BYAC Celebrates At Passing Out Parade

The Barbados YouthADVANCE Corps (BYAC) recently celebrated a significant milestone as 132 trainees of Cohort 7 completed their intensive Residential Programme at the Barbados Cadet Corps’ campsite, Paragon Base, Christ Church.

Speaking at the event themed “In Celebration of Growth, Commitment and Dedication”, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Joy Adamson, commended the trainees for remaining committed to completing the programme.

“Today, we celebrate not just the completion of a programme but a journey of growth and dedication that has shaped these young individuals into resilient, disciplined, and confident citizens,” said Mrs. Adamson.

The ceremony highlighted the trainees’ involvement in a diverse range of activities, including drill exercises, first aid training, cultural arts, and sports. Special recognition was given to Platoon 4, the winners of the Drill and Flag Raising Competition.

Mrs. Adamson commended the efforts of the facilitators, wardens, and support teams for their unwavering dedication. She emphasised the importance of continued personal growth and community contribution, encouraging trainees to embrace future challenges with confidence.

The ceremony underscored the trainees’ resilience, discipline, and personal growth, with Mrs. Adamson acknowledging the transformative impact of the programme.

“These young men and women have developed invaluable life skills that will empower them to face life’s challenges with confidence and purpose,” she stated.

The Permanent Secretary urged the trainees to continue striving for excellence, stressing the value of lifelong learning and community engagement. “Your journey doesn’t end here. Take what you’ve learned and use it to uplift yourselves and those around you,” she advised.

Mrs. Adamson also encouraged parents and guardians to remain actively involved, supporting their children’s continued development and helping to build a stronger Barbadian society. (PR/GIS)

Government

Week Of Activities For World Meteorological Day – March 23rd

The Barbados Meteorological Services will host a week of activities for World Meteorological Day 2025, beginning on Sunday, March 23, under the theme “Closing The Early Warning Gap Together”.

Staff will attend a church service on the day at the St. Bartholomew Anglican Church, Charnocks, Christ Church, starting at 9:30 a.m.

On Monday, March 24, there will be an Open Day and Expo at the BMS’ headquarters, Charnocks, Christ Church. It will run from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Agencies such as the Barbados Water Authority, Barbados Fisheries Division, the Amateur Society of Barbados, and many more will mount exhibits.

A Scavenger Hunt will be held on Saturday, March 29, at BMS’ headquarters, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Participants will use meteorological clues to visit sites, scavenge items, and create fun videos.

The final event, a Coastal Hike, is slated for Sunday, March 30. Participants are urged to gather at 2:30 p.m. at Barclays Park, Ermie Bourne Highway, St. Andrew, for a 3:00 p.m. start.

Government

Investment in Renewable Energy to Cut Electricity Costs

By Deanzer Roberts

In an unprecedented move toward energy sustainability, the Government of Barbados has allocated a record-breaking sum towards renewable energy initiatives. The budget for 2025 prioritizes investment in solar, wind, and alternative energy projects with the goal of making electricity more affordable and reducing the country’s reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Minister Ryan Straughn, in his budget address, underscored the urgency of reducing energy costs, noting that high electricity prices have placed a heavy burden on households and businesses alike. “This investment is not just about sustainability; it’s about energy independence and economic resilience. We are ensuring that the cost of electricity remains stable and predictable for all Barbadians,” he stated.

The renewable energy push includes a series of incentives to encourage households and businesses to transition to solar technology, including tax rebates, financing programs, and government-subsidized installations. Additionally, the government is investing in large-scale solar and wind farms, which are expected to significantly reduce the cost of power generation.

Through these efforts, the administration aims to lower national electricity costs by at least 20% over the next five years while significantly cutting carbon emissions. The program is also projected to create thousands of jobs in the renewable energy sector, from manufacturing and installation to maintenance and research.

With a long-term vision of becoming a leader in green energy innovation within the Caribbean, Barbados is positioning itself as a model nation for sustainability and climate action. Residents and business owners are encouraged to take advantage of government-backed energy-saving programs as the country transitions towards a more sustainable future.