Education

MOU SIGNED BETWEEN A & B MUSIC SUPPLIES AND THE UWI

Veteran music industry leader Norman Barrow believes that creativity, not competition, should be encouraged on the local music scene in order for the Barbadian brand to better penetrate overseas markets.
Barrow shared these views during a recent signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between his company, A&B Music Supplies, and the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus, said that sticking to the “traditional” ways of making and marketing music will not help local artists reach a global audience.
He said: “I am hoping that the opportunities provided for aspiring creatives will produce a different way of thinking, which will encourage them to realise that competing for a prize is not the way for us to get our music into the mainstream of international recognition.
“We must work together to make sure our music has global appeal. Machel Montano recently said: ‘We must improve the quality of our music, our writing, our marketing, and the quality of our message.'”
He explained, “I have always held the view that one of the main reasons that reggae music was able to become a recognised genre in the world of music, is because the Jamaican artistes never competed, and their writings were never guided by a set of rules. They were free to produce music that appealed to the world.”
He emphasized the need for a shift in focus, stating that while he respects past efforts, it is time to create music that can be marketed globally, which he described as essential for Barbados’ future.
The MOU establishes a partnership aimed at supporting students in the Faculty of Culture, Creative and Performing Arts by providing scholarships and other resources. It also includes the establishment of the Norman Barrow Digital Archives; this new archive is aimed at storing music Barrow has produced over the years across the region, and giving easy access to students who are seeking to further their research into varying genres.

Education

Three Schools Honoured For Championing Health Initiatives

Three schools have been recognised for their efforts in promoting healthy lifestyles through the implementation of the Barbados School Nutrition Policy (BSNP).

George Lamming Primary, St. Giles Primary, and The Rock Christian School were honoured by the BSNP Implementation Committee during a special ceremony on Wednesday at the George Lamming Primary School, in Welches, St. Michael.

The overall winner, George Lamming Primary, and the two other schools, each received $4,000 in vouchers to support their health-focused initiatives.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, commended the schools for their leadership, highlighting the significance of turning policy into action.

“This is one of those moments where we must reward, appreciate, and acknowledge progress…. We are moving in the right direction. It’s one thing for policymakers to develop ideas on paper, but it’s in moments like these that we see policy come alive and truly transform lives…. You’re proving that good health begins with each of us,” Mr. Ishmael said.

Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, also praised the students and school communities for their dedication.

“Winning isn’t just about trophies or prizes, it’s about the teamwork, the creativity, and the commitment you’ve shown in reshaping your school environment. Your participation sets an example that will inspire not just your classmates, but your families and communities to live healthier lives. This is just the beginning of your journey – keep making smart, healthy choices,” Dr. Archer-Bradshaw stated.

The event was also attended by PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Riego, other officials and stakeholders involved in the policy’s rollout, principals, teachers, and students.

The BSNP Committee applauded the schools for fostering healthier environments, underscoring the importance of early intervention in addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases. The initiative forms part of a national effort to promote wellness and improve long-term health outcomes for Barbadian youth. (PR/GIS)

Caption: Minister of State in Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael; Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw; PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Reigo, as well as officials and stakeholders involved in the School Nutrition Policy, pose with students and principals of the George Lamming Primary; St. Giles Primary; and The Rock Christian School, at the ceremony

Education

Immigration Webinar For Students Wishing To Study In Canada

Barbadians interested in pursuing studies in Canada are invited to participate in the online Immigration Seminar of the Consulate General of Barbados, in Toronto.

The Consulate, as part of its annual activities to observe National Heroes Day, is hosting a week of activities, and the key event will be the Immigration Seminar tomorrow Thursday, April 24, at 6:00 p.m.

Over the past 12 months, there have been significant changes to the requirements and processes for obtaining an international student visa. As a result, the seminar will focus on the recent changes to the entry requirements for international students coming to Canada to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

Prospective students, as well as parents, guardians, guidance counsellors, school teachers and principals, who have a vested interest in obtaining the most up-to-date and accurate information to make the most informed choice from the available study options, are encouraged to participate in the online seminar.

Alana Alleyne, a barrister and solicitor, will cover areas such as the latest changes to international student visas, eligibility criteria for student visas, requirements for postgraduate work permits, and changes to eligibility for spousal work permits. (PR/GIS)

Education

Information Session For Teachers Keen On Working In USA

Primary school teachers interested in working in the United States of America (USA) are invited to an upcoming Information Session, tomorrow Thursday, April 24.

The session will be hosted in the Main Conference Room of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector, Warrens Office Complex, Warrens, St. Michael, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The initiative is being facilitated by the Ministry, in partnership with the Barbados Employment and Career Counselling Service, the Barbados Union of Teachers, and Participate Learning, a USA recruitment firm.

During the event, Participate Learning will share important information on the application and recruitment processes, as well as on working in the USA. (PR/GIS)