Cybercrime and cybersecurity awareness campaign to be rolled out across four OECS countries
Four member countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) are from Tuesday participating in a World Bank-funded initiative promoting digital transformation across nine-member sub-regional grouping.
The awareness programme for the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP) represents a people-centered, regionally coordinated effort to ensure that as digital services expand, so too does public trust and safety.
The awareness programme got underway in St. Lucia on Tuesday, followed by Dominica on August 28, St. Vincent and the Grenadines on September 2, and Grenada on September 4 and is part of a unified regional push to equip citizens with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital world securely.
The campaign seeks to raise public understanding of cyber risks, encourage protective digital behaviors, and strengthen alignment with the CARICOM Cyber Security and Cybercrime Action Plan (CCSCAP).
It is designed to address gaps identified in a recent regional situational assessment, which highlighted limited awareness among vulnerable groups such as seniors, women, and rural populations.
“As we embrace digital transformation, we must ensure that our people are equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate the online world safely and confidently. This campaign is about more than awareness; it’s about empowerment,” said OECS Director General, Dr. Didacus Jules.
“We are bridging the digital divide by reaching vulnerable populations, including the elderly, women, and rural communities, who are often left behind in national dialogues around technology. When people are informed, they can better protect themselves, their families, and their livelihoods from cyber threats.
“The OECS Commission is proud to support this coordinated regional effort under CARDTP, which underscores our commitment to building a safe, secure, and inclusive digital future. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and regional integration strengthens our ability to respond to threats, raise standards, and build resilience together,” Jules added.
According to the officials, the campaign launches in each of the four participating countries will include engagement with national leaders, local coordinators, and regional partners, highlights of CARDTP’s accomplishments to date and livestream options to include remote audiences across the Caribbean.
The campaign also follows a situational assessment conducted across the region, which revealed key gaps in public awareness, particularly among seniors, women, and rural populations and helped shape the communications strategy now being implemented.
The Trinidad-based Caribbean Community Implementing Agency for Crime and Security (CARICOM IMPACS) has commended the partners involved in the project.
“We look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the campaign’s success and to support the broader objectives of the CARDTP. Our role will be to provide expertise and support in the areas of law enforcement training, intelligence sharing and policy development to combat cybercrime effectively,” said CARICOM IMPACS executive director, Lt. Col. Michael Jones.
“We believe that a multi-faceted approach, combining public awareness, legislative frameworks and strong law enforcement capabilities, is the key to creating a secure digital environment for all Caribbean people,” he added.
Jones said that CARICOM IMPACS is confident that this campaign will be a significant step towards a safer and more secure Caribbean.
“We urge all citizens and organisations to participate actively and to share the message of cybersecurity awareness. Together, we can build a strong, secure, and prosperous digital Caribbean.”
Source - CMC
Sports Results for MLB & the WNBA
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Red Sox 5, Orioles 0
Braves 11, Marlins 2
Rays 0, Guardians 3
Nationals 1, Yankees 5
Twins 7, Blue Jays 5
Phillies 5, Mets 6
Diamondbacks 8, Brewers 9
Royals 5, White Sox 4
Pirates 8, Cardinals 3
Angels 3, Rangers 7
Rockies 6, Astros 1
Padres 7, Mariners 6
Cubs 2, Giants 5
Tigers 6, Athletics 7
Reds 3, Dodgers 6
WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL LEAGUE
Storm 75, Fever 95
Mercury 92, Sparks 84
Source- ABC
Federal Reserve says it will 'abide by any court decision' in standoff between Trump and Cook
A Federal Reserve spokesperson on Tuesday said the central bank will abide by any court decision in the standoff between Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook and President Donald Trump.
The spokesperson said Congress directs governors to serve fixed terms and may only be removed by the president "for cause."
"Long tenures and removal protections for governors serve as a vital safeguard, ensuring that monetary policy decisions are based on data, economic analysis, and the long-term interests of the American people," the spokesperson said.
"Lisa Cook has indicated through her personal attorney that she will promptly challenge this action in court and seek a judicial decision that would confirm her ability to continue to fulfill her responsibilities as a Senate-confirmed member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. As always, the Federal Reserve will abide by any court decision," they added.
It's unclear if Cook was working Tuesday after Trump's Monday night post that he was removing her from the board. Trump cited unproven allegations of mortgage fraud as the reason for her firing. Cook pushed back that Trump didn't have the authority to remove her and that she was not resigning.
Source- ABC
Trump 'very angry' with Putin as Russia's strikes on Ukraine continue despite peace push
President Donald Trump again on Monday expressed frustration with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin as Russian strikes on Ukraine continued despite White House efforts to broker a peace deal between the warring neighbors.
"Every conversation I have with him is a good conversation," the president told reporters of Putin during an Oval Office executive order signing event. "And then unfortunately, a bomb is loaded up into Kyiv or someplace, and then I get very angry about it."
Trump has repeatedly admonished Putin for Russia's nightly strikes on Ukrainian cities. Nonetheless, the president told reporters he was still hopeful of progress toward a peace deal.
Both Russia and Ukraine continued long-range strikes through the weekend and into Monday. On Tuesday, Ukraine's air force said Russia launched 59 drones into the country overnight, of which 47 were shot down or suppressed.
Source- ABC
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are engaged
The speculation can stop now: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are engaged.
Taylor announced the news on Instagram on Tuesday with the caption, "Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married." She posted a photo of herself and Travis in a flower-filled garden, with Travis kneeling in front of her. There are additional photos of the two embracing, and one of Taylor showing off her gold and diamond ring.
ABC News has confirmed the big news, which came after the happy couple spoke in detail about their relationship on Travis and his brother Jason Kelce's New Heights podcast earlier in August.
ABC News has also confirmed that Taylor's ring is an old mine brilliant cut designed by Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewelry.
Taylor and Travis have been dating since 2023. Their relationship began in July of that year, when Travis said on the podcast that he was upset that he hadn't gotten to meet Taylor when she performed in Kansas City on the Eras Tour. His comments set off a chain of events that led to the two meeting and, eventually, becoming romantically involved.
Their relationship first became evident when Taylor appeared at one of Travis' games in September 2023. The two were then photographed holding hands that October, confirming their relationship.
TCI TOP MODELS TAKE NEW YORK BY STORM
Three of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ brightest rising stars have taken a major leap toward international modelling success following a transformative and career-shaping journey to New York City, the beating heart of the global fashion industry.
Shakem Charles, TCI Top Model 2025; Brittney Bien-Amie, TCI Top Model Muse 2025; and Hubert Prospere, Cycle 6 First Runner-Up, recently travelled to the fashion capital with a clear goal: to meet with leading fashion and commercial agencies and secure international representation that could launch their careers onto the global stage.
Curated and led by Courtney Robinson, Executive Producer and Founder of the TCI Top Model Contest, the visit was more than a talent showcase—it was a strategic career development initiative aimed at placing TCI models on par with the world’s top talent.
“This trip marked an essential next step in elevating our models from local promise to international prospects,” said Robinson. “Our meetings confirmed what we already knew—TCI talent is world-class. The response from agencies has been overwhelmingly positive, and our models represented both themselves and the Turks and Caicos Islands with pride, poise, and professionalism.”
Over several days, the trio participated in a rigorous schedule of agency interviews with top-tier fashion and commercial representation, runway walk assessments, digital photoshoots, and self-taped auditions. Each model left a strong impression on industry executives, setting the stage for potential signings with agencies that have global networks spanning US states: New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, along with international cities: London, Milan and Paris.
In between meetings, the models explored New York’s most iconic neighbourhoods and cultural landmarks, absorbing the city’s dynamic energy and artistic spirit. Highlights included the cobblestone streets of SoHo, the edgy vibrance of the Lower East Side, the architectural grandeur of Hudson Yards and the bright lights of Times Square. At The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), they explored the exhibitions Face Value: Celebrity Press Photography, The Many Lives of the Nakagin Capsule Tower, and Oasis in the City. At The Metropolitan Museum of Art, they experienced Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, Lorna Simpson: Source Notes, and Arts of Africa and Oceania. These cultural encounters provided creative fuel and deepened the models’ understanding of global aesthetics, visual storytelling, and self-expression.
Reflecting on his experience, Shakem Charles shared, “Walking into those agencies in New York felt like stepping into a vision I’ve carried quietly for years—something I wasn’t sure would happen so soon. It wasn’t just a series of interviews—it was a pivotal moment that sharpened my focus and deepened my resolve. Each meeting confirmed that this is where I’m meant to be. I’m no longer watching from the sidelines—I’m ready to take my place on the world stage.”
Brittney Bien-Amie, who captivated agencies with her commanding presence, said, “New York was surreal—like watching pieces of my own dream come to life. I’ve always held this vision in my heart, but to actually be seen, heard, and embraced by some of the biggest names in the industry—it was overwhelming in the best way. I wasn’t just showing them my portfolio—I was showing them my journey. And I walked out knowing, not hoping, that I belong. This is just the beginning of something bigger than I ever imagined.”
Hubert Prospere, known for his sharp editorial edge, added, “This trip wasn’t just about meeting agencies—it was about proving to myself and the world that I belong at the highest levels of this industry. Every meeting, every look, every conversation confirmed that my talent and professionalism stand shoulder to shoulder with the best. The agencies were genuinely impressed, not only by my portfolio but also by the passion and discipline I showed. This is not the finish line—it’s the launching pad for a path that will take us well beyond what we envisioned. The possibilities ahead are limitless.”
What especially stood out to the agencies was the calibre of the models’ portfolios, built in collaboration with leading TCI Top Model’s creative forces—particularly renowned local photographer Renau Destine, who has been a mainstay of the creative team since 2012. His work has helped shape the visual identity of the competition and prepared the models for the international spotlight, ensuring their materials matched the standard of top global talent.
With meetings concluded and follow-ups underway, the models are now awaiting final decisions regarding agency representation, development deals, and placement in international markets. Many of the agencies have affiliate offices across major fashion hubs, opening doors to careers that span continents.
“This moment isn’t just about modelling,” Robinson emphasised. “It’s about representation, visibility, and proving that world-class talent can come from anywhere—even a small island nation. This is a win not just for the models, but for the Turks and Caicos Islands as a whole.”
As they return home to await the next chapter, one thing is clear: they didn’t just visit New York—they made their mark.
HISTORIC $1.2 BILLION PALACE RESORTS AGREEMENT SIGNED
Thursday August 14, 2025 was a defining moment for the Turks and Caicos Islands, as the Washington Misick Government signed a landmark development agreement with The Palace Company, part of the world-renowned Palace Resorts family – a brand celebrated globally for luxury, excellence, and exceptional guest experiences.
This is far more than the construction of another resort. With an estimated investment of $1.2 billion- the single largest private investment in our nation’s history – and the development of a 40-acre property in Leeward, Providenciales, this project represents a bold step forward in shaping the future of our economy, our communities, and our place in the world.
The benefits will be far-reaching, and the investment will create hundreds of jobs for Turks and Caicos Islanders during both construction and long-term operations. It will stimulate the local economy, providing new opportunities for entrepreneurs and suppliers, while also boosting tourism revenues and reinforcing TCI’s status as a premier luxury destination.
Equally important, this development reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainable, high-quality growth — protecting our environment, preserving our cultural heritage, and enhancing the beauty that makes these Islands unlike any other.
The world already recognizes our unmatched beaches and turquoise waters. Through this partnership with Palace Resorts, we will also be known as a nation where vision, investment, and excellence come together to create opportunity and prosperity for all our people.
On behalf of my Government and the people of these Islands, I welcome Palace Resorts to our shores and look forward to the transformational impact this historic investment will deliver for generations to come.
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS REPORTS STEADY IMPROVEMENT IN 2025 CSEC RESULTS.
The Ministry of Education is pleased to announce the results of the May/June 2025 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, which demonstrates steady national improvement and encouraging signs of progress in critical subject areas.
A total of 531 students (245 males and 286 females) registered for examinations; reflecting 2823 subject entries. Of the total entries, 2694 sat exams in 29 subjects, achieving an overall pass rate of 70.97% with Grades I–III; an increase of 1.33 percentage points from the 2024 results.
The data reflects strong attendance, with a 95.43% examination participation rate from those registered.
It is worth noting that pass rates in English A rose sharply to 75.91%, marking a 5.91 percentage point increase from 2024 and the best performance since 2020.
Following years of decline, Mathematics results saw a modest rise from 31.50% in 2024 to 32.62% in 2025. This improvement follows the Ministry’s recruitment of additional Mathematics teachers, the introduction of a national Mathematics Jeopardy competition, and participation in a UWI-led regional initiative to transform mathematics teaching.
The distribution of grades showed:
Grade I passes: 17.63% of entries, up 1.40% from 2024
Grade II passes: 42.63% (largest cohort, with 12.2% growth)
Grade III passes: 39.74% (12% growth)
These figures indicate growth across all performance levels, with particularly strong gains in the middle tiers.
While female candidates outnumbered males by over 300, results showed both strengths and challenges for each group. Females performed more consistently in top grade ranges, while males showed slightly higher proportions in both the highest and lowest categories, suggesting variability in performance.
There were a number of high-achieving subjects (90%+ pass rate) including Biology, Food, Nutrition and Health, Family and Resource Management, Industrial Technology (Building), and four subjects with 100% pass rates: Integrated Science, Music, Physical Education and Sport, and Visual Arts.
While those areas achieved (90%+ pass rate) there were also areas of concern with pass rates below 50%, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Industrial Technology (Electrical), Geography, and English B.
Commenting on the May/June 2025 CSEC results, the Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Honourable Rachel Marshall Taylor stated, "These results represent more than statistics, they reflect the dedication of our students, teachers, and families across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I commend each student, their teachers and school administrators.
While we celebrate the notable improvement in English A and the encouraging upturn in Mathematics after years of decline, we recognize that our work is far from complete.
The growth we see across all grade levels, particularly in the middle tiers, demonstrates that our strategic interventions are beginning to bear fruit. The recruitment of additional mathematics teachers, our Mathematics Jeopardy initiative, and our partnership with UWI are concrete examples of how targeted support can drive positive change.
However, we must address the subjects where pass rates remain below 50%. These areas require our immediate attention and innovative approaches. Our recent educational mission to Jamaica and our commitment to strengthening regional partnerships will inform our strategies moving forward.
I am particularly encouraged by the 95.43% participation rate, which shows our students are engaged and committed to their academic pursuits. As we continue implementing our 'Bridges to Brilliance' vision, we remain focused on ensuring every child in our beautiful islands has access to quality education that prepares them for success in an increasingly competitive global environment."
The Local Registrar will release the results to students at 1:00 p.m. today.
The Ministry of Education remains committed to ensuring every student in the Turks and Caicos Islands has the skills, resources, and support necessary to succeed in the classroom and beyond. A more detailed analysis of the results is available on the Ministry’s website (gov.tc/education/).
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL POST MEETING STATEMENT
Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam and the Hon. Premier Charles Washington Misick, co-chaired a meeting of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) National Security Council (NSC) on Thursday 7th August, 2025 at the Office of the Governor, Raleigh House Graceway Plaza, Providenciales.
In attendance, the Deputy Governor (Ag.), the Hon. Deputy Premier, the Hon. Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police. Also in attendance, the National Security Advisor, PS/National Security, the Commanding Officer TCI Regiment and Director General TCI Border Force (Ag.).
Members were briefed:
- By the Hon. Minister for the Ministry of Innovation, Technology and Energy on ongoing recovery efforts following the cyber breach in December 2024. The Minister further briefed
on the development of a Cyber Security Strategy and Transformation Plan (CSSTP) that intends to mature TCI’s cyber security capability. - By the Intelligence Working Group (IWG) on key national security risk, serious crime patterns and emerging trends.
- By the National Security Lead engaged to undertake a National Security Threat Assessment (NTSA) of the Turks and Caicos Islands, which will form the basis of a National Security Risk Register and National Security and Development Strategy.
- By the Unified Command (UC) on work to acquire a long range – deep water patrol vessel to enhance Maritime Domain Awareness.
- By the Informal Settlement Unit (ISU) on proposed processes for the redevelopment of designated informal communities along with a proposal to establish the ISU as a Statutory
Agency. - By the Commanding Officer of the TCI Regiment on a proposal to expand the enlistment criteria for Reservist and Permanent Staff ranks of the TCI Regiment, subject to section 15 (2) of the TCI Defence Ordinance.
- By the Director of the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Services in regards to community supervision and safeguarding infrastructure requirements.
RTC News will have more on the post meeting in another newscast.
Trump unveils AI plan
The Trump administration has unveiled a sweeping roadmap to develop artificial intelligence, pledging to boost US innovation while stripping away what it calls "bureaucratic red tape" and "ideological bias".
The 28-page AI Action Plan outlines more than 90 policy actions for the rapidly developing technology that administration officials say can be implemented over the next year.
"We believe we're in an AI race, and we want the United States to win that race," Trump administration crypto czar David Sacks told reporters.
The AI plan promises to build data centre infrastructure, and promote American technology - but was panned by critics who consider it an ideological flex by the White House.
The plan also calls for federal agencies to review and repeal policies that stand in the way of AI development, and encourage AI in both government and the private sector.
President Donald Trump is expected to sign three related executive orders on Wednesday. One order will promote the international export of US-developed AI technologies, while another aims to root out what the administration describes as "woke" or ideologically biased AI systems.
"American development of AI systems must be free from ideological bias or engineered social agendas," the White House said. "With the right government policies, the United States can solidify its position as the leader in AI and secure a brighter future for all Americans."
Crypto czar Sacks added that the plan is partially focused on preventing AI technology from being "misused or stolen by malicious actors" and will "monitor for emerging and unforeseen risks from AI".
"AI is a revolutionary technology that's going to have profound ramifications for both the economy and national security," Sacks said. "It's just very important that America continues to be the dominant power in AI."
The Trump administration has positioned the expansion of AI infrastructure and investments in the United States as a way to stay ahead of China.