Saint Lucia Magazine (September 09th 2026)

Hello and welcome to St. Lucia Magazine, your weekly roundup of the nation's top stories in education, the economy, infrastructure, agriculture, and more. I am your host, Naval Ogist. In this edition, the Bureau of Standards implements labeling requirements for local juice manufacturers, and St. Nusha prepares to receive the first group under a US third country nationals program. The St. Lucia Bureau of Standards is reminding local juice manufacturers of mandatory labeling requirements for prepackaged products. Claudia Monui tells us more. >> The St. Closure Bureau of Standards hosted a hybrid training workshop recently to educate local juice retailers and manufacturers on mandatory prepackaged juice labeling requirements. During the session, SLBS officers detailed essential compliance guidelines and outlined keyformational requirements necessary for prepackaged products. The workshop highlighted the bureau's upcoming enforcement drive scheduled to take effect on November 2nd, 2026. Standards officer Amber Joseph detailed the information that the labels should obtain. >> I'll be zooming in on four of the important bits of information that needs to be included on the label. the common name, the manufacturer's information, lot number, as well as the country of origin. Of course, each one of them, although it's a little bit different, they all come together to allow the consumer and the regulatory authorities to identify the products and of course the responsible business and the production batch and its origin. Head of the compliance department, Mr. Herbert Reynolds emphasized the role of standardized labeling in safeguards for local buyers. He explained that enforcement of labeling standards is key to protecting the consuming public and ensuring transparency in the marketplace. He underscored that the protection of consumers extends to the concerns for potential allergens and prohibited substances. We've seen entrepreneurs bottling fruit locally local fruit juice which to us is a good thing. Um we we want to encourage the industry. Um but we note that the the industry is currently nonconforming. So before we enforce the standard, we want to reach out to you and communicate what the requirements are and how you can meet those requirements. So we do not want to stop you from producing and bottling your juice. We just want to help you to conform to the standard and and so um your business can expand. Producers and retailers seeking further guidance on compliance standards are encouraged to visit the official website at ww.slbs.org to access complete labeling guidelines. The SLBS also indicated that there is need for increased standards in the sector down to coconut water retailers who will also have to label their pre-sealed bottles. for the government information service. I am Claudia Monlui. St. Lucia is preparing to receive its first group of six people under a new third country nationalists program agreed with the United States. St. Lucia is preparing to receive its first group being transferred from the United States under a new third country nationals arrangement. The group of six, five men and one woman is expected to arrive this week. They are people who could not establish normal immigration status in the United States and have therefore been identified for removal. >> This week, St. Lucia will receive the first group of transferies under the third country nationals program established through our bilateral agreement with the United States of America. Six individuals, five men and one woman, will be permitted entry into St. Lucia under the program. Over the next two years, St. Lucia will receive up to 10 persons each quarter. The United States remains a strong and valued partner to St. Lucia. Our relationship is built on cooperation and a shed commitment to addressing regional and international challenges responsibly. >> For those who choose to remain in St. Lucia, the government says they will not be detained or treated as prisoners. Instead, they will be expected to abide by local laws with support available to help them integrate. The arrangement allows for up to 10 people to be received every quarter over the next 2 years. Honorable Ava Baptist says the government will use the period to assess how the program works and what St. Lucia can reasonably manage. The minister says discussions with the United States have been ongoing for more than a year with St. Lucia seeking to ensure that its responsibilities under the program do not place an unsustainable burden on the country. For the government information service, I am Nepal Oist. Still to come, improvements and support for St. Lucia schools in the new academic year. Stay with us. Hi, my name is Denzel Joseph from the Environmental Health Division, Department of Health and Wellness, and today we're going to educate you on the proper process for obtaining a license for the following types of establishments. food establishments including restaurants, cantens, snackets and food trucks, hotels, spas, barber shops and hair salons, villas and apartment houses, guest houses, supermarkets, grocery shops, bars and liquor shops, ice cream carts. First complete an application form at any one of our offices located in Sufra Viewfort or Guadage. This is what the forms will look like. Officers from the division will then come to your establishment to conduct an inspection. Ensure that the officers conducting the inspection present a valid form of ID. You will receive a report within three working days to inform you of the findings and recommendations as well as whether your establishment has met the necessary requirements for licensing. Once you have met the benchmark, your next step will be to pay the license fee. All payments should be made directly at our main office in Badage or at the subcollector's offices in Viewfort and Sufre and by no other means. We accept cash or check payments only. All check payments must be addressed to the accountant general. A receipt will be given to you at the time of payment. Processing of the license begins. Lastly, return to our office with your receipt within 2 to 3 weeks to sign and collect the certificate. For more information, please call us at our main office in Guadalaj at 4683700, the view office at 454-6329, or the Sufra office at 4597329. Welcome back. The new academic year is underway with the Ministry of Education highlighting improvements to school facilities, financial assistance for families, and continued efforts to improve teaching and learning across St. Lucia. Amanda F. Clack tells us more. Across every school, there was a shared sense of optimism. From the excitement of firsttime students entering kindergarten classrooms to senior students preparing for exit examinations next year, the reopening of schools marked what was not only the beginning of another term, but also a reflection of months of preparation aimed at creating safer, stronger, and more supportive learning environments in St. Lucia. During the summer vacation period, schools across the island benefited from an extensive program of restorative and infrastructural works. Classrooms were refurbished, painting and repairs undertaken, sanitation facilities upgraded, and essential maintenance completed to ensure schools were ready to welcome students and staff for the new academic year. These improvements form part of the government's continuing investment in creating learning spaces that are conducive to teaching, learning, and student well-being. >> The students seem very, very excited about the reopening of school. We've done quite a bit of work in terms of the infrastructure of most of our schools. And so the upgrade um in terms of the school physically looks very good, most of them. Today um I decided to traverse the east coast of the island. Of course we did in the first term a lot of the northern schools today we at Olio we've done schools like forest we did be saw we did schools tiro shape and we're continuing in the denry basin uh the whole thrust is to visit as many schools as possible we cannot visit all one time and so we'll continue along this journey tomorrow and as time goes by we'll visit all schools to hear some of the challenges and see some of what we can do to make the actual teaching conditions better for our teachers. and the learning conditions even better for our students. But all in all, very very good so far. >> The reopening of schools also follows a series of targeted interventions designed to ease the financial burden on families preparing for the new school year. In recent weeks, the government presented financial assistance to students transitioning into secondary school through the CPEA school support program, while thousands of primary school students from kindergarten through grade 6 benefited from book burseries to assist with the purchase of essential learning materials. The support forms part of a broaden national commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind because of economic circumstances. At the same time, the ministry continues to advance an ambitious program of education transformation. Digital learning remains a central pillar of that agenda with another cohort of form one students set to receive laptop computers during the course of the academic year. expanding access to technology while supporting modern teaching and learning practices in classrooms throughout the island. Alongside digital access, curriculum enhancement, teacher development, technical and vocational education, and strengthen student support services continue to shape the ministry's long-term vision for education in St. Duchia. >> We've been listening to some of the challenges and of course, it's incumbent on us as a body to do the best that we can. Most of the complaints are about the computer labs. We really have outdated computers at most of our schools. And so we are engaging some of our foreign mission to see if we can get as many donated new computers as possible, upgraded computers for our teachers and of course our students as we continue that thrust for digital transformation. So, we've been listening. Uh we've been trying our best, and we'll continue to um work in the interest of our people. >> As classrooms once again come alive with learning, discovery, and opportunity, the Ministry of Education says the new academic year represents another important step in strengthening an education system that is inclusive, resilient, and future focused. Today, thousands of students walk through the school gates carrying books, backpacks, and dreams of their own. As another academic year begins, classrooms across Syninducha once again become places where futures are imagined, talents are nurtured, and the next chapter of our nation's story quietly begins. For the Ministry of Education, I am Amanda F. Clark. For months, students across St. Lucia receive laptops as the Ministry of Education advances its digital transformation program. More in this report from Amanda F Clark. >> For schools across St. Lucia, the arrival of laptops for formon students marks another important step in preparing learners for a more connected and technology enabled secondary school experience. Over the two-day distribution exercise, principals and school representatives are receiving devices earmarked for incoming form one students, ensuring that schools are positioned to place this important learning tool into students hands as the new academic year gets underway. Beyond the logistics of distribution, the initiative speaks to a much larger purpose. Today's classrooms demand more than textbooks alone. They require students to research, collaborate, create, and solve problems in ways that prepare them for an everchanging global environment. The laptop program is designed to help bridge the gap by expanding access to educational resources while supporting teaching, independent learning, and digital literacy from the very beginning of secondary school. As schools continue integrating technology into everyday learning, students are being encouraged to not only use digital tools, but to become responsible digital citizens capable of thinking critically, communicating effectively and adapting confidently to the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. I am indeed elated that as minister for education and of course digital transformation that we can during the first week ensure that we have every new form one student be given a laptop. We know that laptops will ensure that our students are on par with the rest of the world and would ensure that they are individuals that can continue to do research on a frequent basis and provide the best sort of information gathering that they need to flourish in our education system. The distribution also reflects the ministry's broader program of education transformation. Alongside continued investment in school infrastructure, curriculum enhancement, teacher development and student support services, digital learning remains one of the pillars shaping the future of education in St. Lucia. Throughout the academic year, the ministry will continue strengthening digital teaching practices, expanding technology enabled learning and supporting educators as they integrate digital resources more effectively into classroom instruction. The objective is to not simply place technology into students hands but to ensure that it becomes a meaningful part of how teaching happens, how students engage with learning and how schools prepare young people for success beyond the classroom. >> So I think as minister when a student comes from primary school uh they have been spoonfed for most of their time there. The additional laptop breeds a lot of curiosity. We expect young people to actually use this these tab these these these devices uh to whatever careers that they are interested in to from very early from one get into all aspects of developing their skills in that particular area. Beyond this, the Ministry of Education is really responsible for digital transformation in this in this nation. And so we expected that individuals can actually tap into all the resources available to them and start getting you know acquainted with things like AI using it responsibly. We're expecting um individuals to even use this for lifelong learning. um get in, learn teamwork, learn uh different methods of you know interacting with each other. Um use social media responsibly and really start from very early getting our young people on the right track as it pertains to digital technology. >> As students begin exploring new lessons, building new friendships and embracing new opportunities in secondary school, many will now do so with an additional tool to support that journey. A laptop may open with the touch of a button. Its greatest value, however, lies in the doors it can open to knowledge, creativity, innovation, and opportunity. From the Ministry of Education, this is Amanda F. Clark. Government is expanding support for early childhood institutions and students with learning needs in the new school year. As students return to the classroom, the Ministry of Education is rolling out additional measures aimed at strengthening support from the early stages of a child's education. >> We will be providing again for early childhood institutions, $3,000 worth of support to these early childhood schools and an additional $100 towards the sort of tuition to every child at that center. a wider package designed to ease some of the financial pressures on families while strengthening early childhood education. Government is also continuing to train teachers to identify learning disabilities and adapt teaching methods to meet the needs of individual students. We have trained uh a significant amount of teachers in exactly what you asked about. Identifying learning disabilities, identifying what the issues are and to ensure that whatever uh whatever sort of uh teaching uh methods we use are in line with whatever we catch as the issue with that disability. Beyond teacher training, infrastructure upgrades are planned at schools in the north and south to create more accommodating learning environments for students with additional needs. The early childhood center in viewfort is also expected to benefit from the improvements. Reporting for the government information service, I am Nval Oist. Coming up next, government outlines key priorities for the new academic year. We are observing prostate cancer awareness month. Prostate cancer is the lead cause of death by cancer in men in St. Lucia and globally. Hence, we are encouraging our men that are 40 years and above to call the nearest wellness center to find out about the prostate cancer screening services under universal health coverage. We have men's health clinic where you can get your PSA level checked and more. So make that call today and keep prostate cancer away. Welcome back. The Ministry of Education is highlighting early childhood development, inclusive education, and digital transformation as key priorities for the new academic year. More in this report. throughout the visits. One message resonated clearly. Strong education begins with strong foundations. For many children, those foundations are built long before they enter a primary classroom. They begin through nurturing early learning environments that encourage curiosity, confidence, communication, and creativity, helping to shape not only academic achievement, but social and emotional development as well. The minister's engagements also highlighted the ministry's continued commitment to strengthening support for learners with diverse educational needs through ongoing investment in inclusive education, teacher capacity building, and specialized student support services. The ministry continues to work towards ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, is able to learn, participate, and thrive within an education system that recognizes their individual potential. >> I'm impressed with the the principles. They seem to have a very clear mandate, a very clear vision on where they want to see the various schools go, and I'm very impressed with that. But I must also also make reference to the staff. They were the ones who really made today possible. Yes, you could be a technocrat at the ministry and you could give policy direction, but really they are the foot soldiers. The teachers, the principals, they're the really really the foot soldiers who make sure that our students have a very safe and warm space to enter on the first day of school. >> Alongside these priorities, digital transformation continues to reshape the learning experience across St. Lucia's education system. From expanding access to digital learning resources to strengthening classroom technology and building students digital competencies, the ministry remains focused on preparing young people for success in an increasingly connected world. The continuation of the government's laptop program for form one students together with broader investments in educational technology reflects a long-term vision of equipping learners with not only devices but with the digital skills required to participate confidently in tomorrow's economy. As the new academic year unfolds, work will also continue on initiatives aimed at strengthening digital literacy among educators, modernizing classroom practice, and supporting innovation throughout the education sector. >> Some of the specific things we're looking at, you know, about the PT project, um changes in technical education, vocational education. We're looking at also special education. We know that we have our new school in South to build. We also looking at changes when it comes to special education, ensuring that each school has a safe space, a safe space when it comes to sensory learning and when it comes to support learning for for our students. So these are some of the major achievements within this ministry. Also, we're looking at digital transformation. >> For Minister Butcher, the first school tour of the academic year was about far more than visiting classrooms. It was an opportunity to see learning through the eyes of children. hear directly from educators and reaffirmed a shared commitment to educational excellence from the earliest years onward. As another school year begins, the ministry says the continued development of early childhood education, inclusive learning, and digital transformation will remain central to its efforts to build an education system where every child is empowered to learn, every learner is supported to succeed, and every classroom is prepared for the future. From the Ministry of Education, Amanda F. Clark reporting. >> With students now back in the classroom, the Ministry of Health has issued tips to support children's health and well-being. Director of the Health Education and Communications Unit, Nadesh Smith Lambert explains, "A strong start to the school year begins with healthy habits at home and a proactive approach to keep our little learners safe, happy, and ready to thrive. Here are some guidelines to help your child have a healthy, happy, and successful school year. Be in the know. Take a moment to connect with your child's school. Ask about their reopening plans, health and safety measures, and any special guidelines you will need to follow. Pack the essentials for healthy habits. Help your child start the school year with a toolkit for wellness. include hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, sanitary napkins, and a bottle of hand soap in their school bag. Small but powerful items that protect against germs. Make it fun by involving your child in choosing and packaging these items. It builds responsibility and gives them a sense of ownership over their health. Fuel the mind and body. Hydration is key for focus and energy. So send your child to school with a fresh bottle of water everyday. When packing lunches, think beyond convenience. Swap excessive packaged snacks and sugary drinks for vibrant seasonal fruits, crunchy vegetables, and wholesome options. These choices not only nourish growing bodies, but also encourage healthier eating habits that last a lifetime. Healthy hands, healthy kids. Teach your child the power of clean hands as regular hand washing keeps germs away. Remind them not to share personal items like water bottles, combs, or utensils to stay safe. Keep sick kids home. If your child shows signs of illness such as coughing, fever, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhea, seek medical care and allow them time to recover before returning to school. This protects both their health and the well-being of others. Support emotional well-being. Back to school transitions can feel overwhelming. Be attentive to your child's emotions and create a supportive environment where they feel safe to talk about their worries and feelings. Swap screen time for active time. While devices have their place in learning, too much screen time can leave children feeling sluggish and disconnected. Encourage your child to explore activities that get their body moving and their creativity flowing. Whether it's running, walking, playing, football, netball, volleyball, cricket, or even the steel pan, these moments of active fun build strength, teamwork skills, and lifelong healthy habits. Talk about safety together. Open conversations about health and safety are the best of the back to school preparations you can ever make with your child. Discuss simple but important measures with your child like staying alert, practicing good hygiene, and knowing where to seek help if needed. Reinstate healthy routines. Ease your child back into consistent schedules, regular bedtimes, balanced meals, and focused study times. Structure helps them settle into school life with confidence. Stand strong against bullying. Remind your child that bullying is unacceptable. Let them know they can always reach out for help and support if they or their friends experience bullying. As the new academic school year commences, the Ministry of Health wishes parents, guardians, principals, teachers, caregivers, supplementary staff, and students a safe and productive school year. May this school year be filled with good health, renewed energy, and opportunities for growth. This message is brought to you by the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Nutrition. >> St. Lushia is strengthening its presence in international women's political leadership with cabinet minister honorable Lisa Jawahir joining the African Academy for women in political leadership. Claudia Magdaw reports two OCS women leaders have made history after being accepted into the African Academy for women in political leadership strengthening political ties between Africa and the Caribbean. St. San Neist assembly speaker Lenin Blanchett and St. Lucia Cabinet Minister Lisa Jawahir took part in the academyy's official launch in Kegali Rwanda from August 2nd to 7th. Their participation will support the exchange of leadership legislative governance expertise while creating new opportunities for women in political leadership across both regions. And with that we wrap up this edition of St. Lucia Magazine. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this production, the national television network, the GIS team, and the communications officers across government's ministries. Thank you for watching NCN channel 122 and following the official social media platforms of the government of St. Lucia. I am Nval East. Until next time, stay informed, stay engaged as we continue tracking St. Lucia's progress.