The Commonwealth marks its 75th anniversary today, highlighting decades of unity and advancement. Originally comprised of 8 nations and now expanded to 56, the Commonwealth spans five continents, representing a substantial portion of the world's population.
 
Ms Patricia Scotland KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, emphasized the collective strength amidst global challenges. She underscored the importance of reflecting on the Commonwealth's legacy, enduring values, and ongoing dedication to promoting democracy, development, and peace worldwide as the organization celebrates this significant milestone.

Patricia Scotland KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth

Photo: KairiFm Facebook Page
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Q95 news has been reliably informed that an employee of the Ministry of Education by the name of, Raymond Henderson, was allegedly found hanging from the second floor of his home earlier this morning.Police suspect it may be a suicide case, however investigations into the cause of Henderson’s death are ongoing. Q95 news will bring you more information on this as soon as it becomes available from official sources.

New evidence from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows the extensive overuse of antibiotics during the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide, which may have exacerbated "silent" spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
 
While only 8% of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 had bacterial co-infections requiring antibiotics, three out of four or some 75% of patients have been treated with antibiotics ‘just in case’ they help. Antibiotic use ranged from 33% for patients in the Western Pacific Region, to 83% in the Eastern Mediterranean and the African Regions. Between 2020 and 2022, prescriptions decreased over time in Europe and the Americas, while they increased in Africa.
 
Highest rate of antibiotic use was seen among patients with severe or critical COVID-19, with a global average of 81%. In mild or moderate cases, there was a considerable variation across regions, with the highest use in the African Region (79%).  
 
WHO classifies antibiotics as per AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification, according to the risk of AMR. Concerningly, the study found that ‘Watch’ antibiotics with higher resistance potential were most frequently prescribed globally.
 
“When a patient requires antibiotics, the benefits often outweigh the risks associated with side effects or antibiotic resistance. However, when they are unnecessary, they offer no benefit while posing risks, and their use contributes to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance,” said Dr Silvia Bertagnolio, WHO Unit Head for Surveillance, Evidence and Laboratory Strengthening, Division for AMR.

During the official launch of the STEM Girls Club yesterday morning, Cassani Laville, the Parliamentary Representative of the Mahaut Constituency, announced that the newly established Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Girls Club aims to empower young girls to explore and excel in STEM careers. Laville emphasized that the club will offer engaging activities to facilitate learning and interaction in these fields. She expressed her hope for the club's expansion beyond the Mahaut Constituency.

Cassani Laville, Minister of Health and the Parliamentary Representative of the Mahaut Constituency

Dr Thomson Fontaine, leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) assures residents that the Dominica Economic Revival Summit is not to be perceived as a political event, despite its organization by the UWP and civil society organizations and other members of the Electoral Reform Coalition. He emphasized that the state of Dominica's economy concerns everyone, as its performance affects all citizens. Fontaine stressed that while diverse perspectives may exist, the summit should not be labeled as political.

​Dr. Fontaine emphasized that he aims to ensure that the summit is not merely a discussion forum. He highlighted the importance of strategic planning as the cornerstone of any viable initiatives that are sustainable.

​United Workers Party (UWP) Team Dominica leader, Dr. Thomson Fontaine 

The Dominica Bar Association (DBA) will hold its Annual 'Law Week' from April 27 to May 4, 2024, centered around the theme 'Justice Unveiled: Navigating Legal Frontiers in the Modern World.' President of the DBA, Noelize Knight-Didier, announced that free legal consultations will be provided by association members during Law Week 2024.

​Knight-Didier also mentioned that as a highlight of the week's events, an award ceremony is scheduled for May 3rd, 2024, to recognize senior lawyers in Dominica who have dedicated years of service to the bar.

Dominica Bar Association (DBA) President, Noelize Knight-Didier

​Ladana Young, President of Rebuild Dominica Inc., outlines the next steps for students who have finished their high school education at the Piney Boarding School. She explains that upon completion, students will determine their future path, noting that their graduation makes them eligible to pursue further studies in the United States, as they have completed high school within the US education system.

Ladana Young, President of Rebuild Dominica Inc

​JCI Dominica is celebrating its 65th Anniversary, and team leader Shonna Harris-Joseph, explained the role that JCI Dominica plays in the Dominican society.

​The Junior Chamber International provides career and personal development training, shaping an individual to become the best version of themselves. Harris-Joseph spoke on the Roots Connection on Q Program on Wednesday night.

​Head of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Dominica, Shonna Harris-Joseph

​President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Ilan Goldfajn, and the director of the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), Jarbas Barbosa, signed an agreement to accelerate the digital transformation of health services, strengthen primary healthcare, and enhance pandemic preparedness across Latin America and the Caribbean region.
 
The new agreement will focus on three priority areas: health systems strengthening based on primary health care; information systems and digital health; and pandemic prevention, preparedness and response.Dr. Barbosa welcomed the agreement and the opportunity to work together with the IBD. “This collaboration will be essential to take more effective actions towards a healthier future for everyone in the region,” he said.
 
To support countries of the region in strengthening health systems, PAHO and IDB will work together in identifying resources and supporting the development of investment plans to increase the access, coverage and quality of health services based on Primary Health Care. To achieve this, they will also collaborate with other partners and organizations, including the Alliance for Primary Health Care (A4PHC) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank).
 
"There is an urgent need for better health care in countries across the hemisphere," said IDB President Ilan Goldfajn. "This agreement will help us better promote and protect the wellbeing of people and communities throughout the region by working together to improve primary care, digitalize health care services and prepare for potential future pandemics."

​Dean at the Portsmouth-based, American Canadian School of Medicine, Dr. Stanley White, says the institution's partnership with DDA’s Jazz & Creole Festival, is justified. Dr. White explains that the elements that make up the festival can be labelled under ‘Wellness’. He gave his remarks at the DDA’s Jazz & Creole Press Conference room yesterday

​Dr. White revealed the mission of the American Canadian School of Medicine in Dominica, and how his faculty and staff plan to support the Dominican economy as well as its students.

Dr. White assured the public that his University will continue to be a responsible and engaged corporate citizen in Dominica.

​Dean at the Portsmouth-based, American Canadian School of Medicine, Dr. Stanley White