Article
Food Handlers Urged to Obtain Food Handler’s Cards Ahead of Festival
The Environmental Health Division is offering weekly food handler certification courses in June and July to prepare for the Emancipation Festival in August. Both in-person (at ESHS) and virtual sessions are available. Certification is mandatory for all food handlers, and no extra sessions will be added, so early attendance is advised. Booth owners should also collect vending registration forms. For updates, follow the division on Facebook or contact them directly.
Article
Wrap It Up Campaign Launched in the Midst of Rising STI Cases
Residents of the Virgin Islands are encouraged to love responsibly, know their status, and protect their health as the Ministry of Health and Social Development continues to encourage safe sex with its Wrap it Up Re-Loaded Valentine’s campaign.
Article
Contract Signed for Design of Immigration Detention Centre
On June 12, 2025, the Government of the Virgin Islands signed a US$370,000 contract with Trojan Design and Development Ltd for the design and construction management of a new 12,000 sq. ft. Immigration Detention Centre. Funded through a $100 million loan facility with CIBC and led by the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) in partnership with the Ministry of Financial Services, the project aims to strengthen national security while upholding human rights standards. The modern facility will provide secure, humane accommodations for detainees and include medical, recreational, and operational spaces. Officials highlighted the project's importance to immigration reform and national development, with construction seen as both urgent and transformative.
Article
Community Centres Across the Territory Available for Public Use
Several community centres in the Virgin Islands, including Long Trench, Emile Dunlop (Anegada), and Christiana Gertrude Warner (Purcell Estate), are now open for approved public use such as meetings, weddings, and workshops. The Ministry of Health and Social Development is finalising arrangements for the full reopening of additional centres, with some facilities like West End and Valerie O. Thomas centres offering limited access. All bookings must be made through the Social Development Department and follow specific guidelines. The ministry thanks the public for their cooperation as it continues to enhance community support and well-being.
Article
Remarks by Honorable Julian Fraser Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change Government of the Virgin Islands as Outgoing Chairperson of the Council of Ministers: Environmental Sustainability
Hon. Julian Fraser, Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change of the Virgin Islands, delivered remarks as the outgoing Chair of the OECS Council of Ministers: Environmental Sustainability at its 12th meeting in Antigua & Barbuda. He thanked the Government of Antigua & Barbuda and welcomed Hon. Sir Molwyn Joseph as the new Chair. Reflecting on the past term, he highlighted the region’s vulnerability to climate change, notably the impact of Hurricane Beryl, and emphasized the need for urgent and focused action. He expressed gratitude for regional cooperation and pledged support for the Council’s continued work under the 2025 theme: “Staying the Course in Perilous Times: Sustainable Transformation and Resilient Prosperity.”
Article
STATEMENT IN OBSERVANCE OF WORLD DIABETES DAY
Today, The Virgin Islands joins the global community in observing World Diabetes Day 2025 under the theme “Diabetes Across Life Stages.” This year’s theme highlights the reality that diabetes affects people from all walks of life. It does not discriminate, affecting individuals of every age, gender and background, from our youngest children to our most senior citizens. That is why it calls for a unified and comprehensive response from all of us.
Article
Statement By Honourable Sharie B. De Castro on the Launch Of Ponce Health Sciences University School Of Medicine In The BVI
On March 24, 2025, Honourable Sharie B. De Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs & Sports, celebrated the launch of the Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) School of Medicine in the British Virgin Islands. She emphasized the collaboration between PHSU and H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) to enhance medical education, create economic growth, and strengthen the region's healthcare. The initiative also includes scholarships for local students, ensuring greater access to medical training and fostering the future of healthcare in the BVI.
Article
71st Emancipation Festival Celebration Off to a Bright Start
The Virgin Islands' 71st Emancipation Festival Celebration commenced with its traditional Torchlight Procession, marking the official start of the annual festivities.
Article
Office of Gender Participated In Domestic Violence Outreach
The Office of Gender Affairs (OGA), in collaboration with the Family Support Network (FSN), participated a Domestic Violence Awareness Outreach today in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke under the theme “Domestic Violence: NO!”
Article
BVI Asia Abroad Scholarship Programme Shares Opportunities With Prospective Students Across The Virgin Islands
The BVI Asia Abroad Scholarship Programme, led by the BVI Hong Kong Office, recently conducted a series of informational sessions for public and private school students across the Virgin Islands.