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TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS PARTICIPATED IN EIGHTH MEETING OF NATIONAL HIV/AIDS PROGRAMME MANAGERS AND PANCAP SHARE FAIR

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 2nd April 2024 – The Turks and Caicos Islands, represented by Dr. Camelia Clarke, Director of the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit within the Ministry of Health and Human Services, recently participated in the Eighth Meeting of National HIV/AIDS Programme Managers (NAP) and the PANCAP Share Fair, held in Trinidad and Tobago from March 18 to March 21, 2024. The Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) provides a unified approach to the Caribbean’s response to the HIV epidemic, coordinating efforts through the Caribbean Regional Strategic Framework on HIV and AIDS.

This event provided a platform for updating Programme Managers and Partners on regional commitments to the 95-95-95 targets, progress on global and regional strategies to end AIDS, and innovative approaches to strengthen the Caribbean regional HIV response. The 95-95-95 targets aim to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed with HIV are on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression. The meeting was attended by National AIDS Programme Managers, policy makers, Development and Regional Partners, and selected Implementing Partners, including representatives of civil society organizations, the community of People Living with HIV (PLHIV), and those at the highest risk for HIV. This gathering served as a crucial platform for sharing insights, exploring strategies, and fostering collaboration to accelerate progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

 

Objectives of the Meeting:

  1. Introduce new NAP Managers to the mandate and framework of PANCAP to ensure ongoing collaboration and coordination at national and regional levels.
  2. Provide information on international frameworks and guidance to address gaps in the HIV response in the Caribbean.
  3. Offer updated guidance on HIV self-testing (HIVST), Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
  4. Share country policy and implementation experiences on HIVST, PrEP, and PEP.
  5. Discuss lessons learned from the regional and national responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and explore their applicability to the HIV response.
  6. Share insights on the implementation of point-of-care testing.
  7. Provide updates on partnership work and technical support provided to countries.
  8. Strengthen the network of NAP managers, civil society organizations, and key partners.

Key Outcomes from the Meeting:

  1. Scaling Up HIV Testing and Prevention: Participants were actively involved in discussions aimed at expanding HIV self-testing (HIVST) initiatives across the region. Acknowledging the significant impact of HIVST on enhancing access to testing, prevention, and care services, delegates stressed the importance of collaborative regional efforts to achieve greater effectiveness in reaching prevention targets.
  1. Person-Centered Differentiated Model of Care: The urgent call to embrace a person-centered approach to HIV treatment and care was emphasized. By streamlining and customizing HIV services to address the unique needs of individuals, especially those living with or vulnerable to HIV, unnecessary strains on the healthcare system can be alleviated, while simultaneously enhancing the quality of care. Emphasis on Integration, which is the co-location and sharing of services and resources between different health services areas and includes offering testing, prevention, treatment, and care services alongside other relevant health services.
  1. Utilization of Information and Communications Technology (ICT): Delegates identified the increased utilization of ICT platforms as a pivotal factor in advancing the regional HIV response. From telemedicine initiatives to tailored ICT platforms designed to reach vulnerable populations, delegates explored innovative approaches to advocacy, mobilization, and empowerment in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
  2. Community Engagement: Recognizing the indispensable role of communities in propelling national HIV responses, delegates underscored the importance of robust, cohesive community engagement. Communities were urged to assume a defining role not only in HIV-related endeavors but also in broader health initiatives, highlighting the significance of grassroots involvement and empowerment.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to implement the key strategies discussed and ensure tangible progress in addressing HIV and AIDS in the Caribbean. The Director of Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit, Dr Clarke, commented on the conference Achieving the 95-95-95 targets requires collective action and unwavering commitment from all sectors of society. We need to insist on continued collaboration, resource mobilization, increased innovation and advocacy efforts to accelerate progress towards ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030”.

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GOVERNMENT REVIEWING TENDER AFTER GRAND TURK–SOUTH CAICOS FLIGHTS STOP

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Turks and Caicos Islands – March 10, 2026 – Commercial flights between Grand Turk and South Caicos have been temporarily discontinued, leaving residents without a direct air link between the two islands since March 1.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government confirmed the suspension in a statement Tuesday, explaining that the route — which operates under a government subsidy — is currently under review as officials reassess the tender process used to award the service.

The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Investment and Trade said the government is “working diligently to assess available options” to restore reliable air service between the islands as quickly as possible.

While the statement did not identify which airline had been operating the route, historically Caicos Express Airways and interCaribbean Airways have provided flights between South Caicos and Grand Turk using small twin-engine aircraft.

Officials acknowledged the disruption has caused concern among residents, noting that inter-island air travel is critical for access to essential services, business activity and government operations.

The government emphasized that the suspension does not affect flights between Grand Turk and Salt Cay, which continue to operate normally.

The review now underway will determine the next provider for the subsidized route. Authorities say the process must be conducted in a “fair, transparent and efficient manner” before service can resume.

For residents of the two islands, however, the immediate issue remains transportation — with many now forced to reroute through Providenciales or rely on limited sea travel until the air connection is restored.

Further updates are expected once the government completes its review and awards a new operating arrangement.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

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News

Treasure Beach Village Opens at Beaches; Tourism Leaders Expect Surge in Bookings  

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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands — A major new chapter in Caribbean tourism has begun in the Turks and Caicos Islands with the opening of Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos, a $150 million expansion expected to drive increased bookings, air arrivals and tourism earnings for the country.

The new oceanfront development, officially opened on February 28, adds 101 luxury multi-bedroom suites to the resort and introduces new dining, entertainment and family experiences designed to strengthen the destination’s position in the global luxury family vacation market.

Tourism officials and resort executives say the expansion is expected to generate greater demand for the destination, which in turn translates to more flights, more visitor spending and increased government revenue from hotel and tourism taxes.

The development is part of an ongoing investment strategy by Sandals Resorts International, which continues to expand the Beaches brand across the Caribbean.

Executive Chairman Adam Stewart described the opening as a powerful signal of confidence in the Turks and Caicos tourism product.

“This moment reflects a partnership between Sandals and the Turks and Caicos Islands that has been built over decades,” Stewart said during the opening celebrations. The new village, he added, builds on the brand’s reputation for creating multi-generational travel experiences where families reconnect and spend meaningful time together.

The resort expansion reinforces Beaches’ reputation as the world’s leading luxury all-inclusive resort brand for families, and Beaches Turks and Caicos continues to stand as one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious properties.

Government officials attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including Tourism Minister Zhavargo Jolly, said the investment strengthens the destination’s international standing and highlights continued confidence in the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier tourism market.

The new village significantly expands the resort’s accommodation offerings with spacious ocean-view suites and high-end villas designed to host larger families and groups. The property now includes luxury options such as the CrystalSky four-bedroom beachfront villas and a multi-level Chairman’s Penthouse suite capable of accommodating up to ten guests.

Treasure Beach Village also introduces six new dining concepts, including the Pinta Food Hall with multiple global cuisine stations and Butch’s Island Chop House, a signature steakhouse previously exclusive to the Sandals brand.

Additional amenities include a 15,000-square-foot lagoon pool, waterslides and splash zones for children, a swim-up bar, and the brand’s first Starfish Cinema, a theatre designed for family movie nights.

Guests staying in the new village will also have access to the full Beaches Turks and Caicos experience, including 28 restaurants, the 45,000-square-foot Pirates Island Water Park, unlimited water sports and supervised children’s programmes.

Industry observers say the investment not only enhances the visitor experience but also strengthens Turks and Caicos’ reputation as one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after luxury destinations.

 

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

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Education

Message from Hon. Rachel M. Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports & Culture

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 6 March 2026: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”  Today, as we observe National Teachers’ Day, we pause to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our teachers and the dedicated leaders of our schools. Your commitment to shaping young minds, guiding character, and nurturing potential is a calling that reaches far beyond the classroom. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”  Your daily efforts reflect the truth and wisdom of these words.

We also extend sincere appreciation to the leaders of our schools whose vision, guidance, and steady leadership create environments where both teachers and students can flourish. Your role in supporting educators and maintaining strong, positive learning communities is invaluable to the continued progress of our education system.

Teaching is not without its challenges. Yet, even in moments of stress and difficulty, our teachers continue to demonstrate genuine love, patience, and concern for their students. For this, we are deeply grateful. Your compassion, encouragement, and dedication help our children feel seen, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential. Truly, to teach is indeed to touch lives forever.

Education is strongest when it is supported by partnership. We must also recognize the important role of parents and families in the success of our children. When schools and homes work together, the results are powerful. As we often say, when parents lead, children succeed. This shared commitment creates a strong foundation for learning and growth.

As a Department and Ministry of Education, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting our teachers and school leaders. We will continue to invest in meaningful professional development, provide the resources necessary for effective teaching and learning, and strengthen the systems that empower educators to thrive in their profession. Your work matters deeply, and we remain dedicated to ensuring you have the support needed to continue making a lasting difference.

On behalf of the Ministry of Education, I thank you. Thank you for your dedication, your resilience, your leadership, and for the love and care you show to our children each and every day. Today we celebrate you and the incredible impact you have on our nation’s future.

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