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Report on the Return on Investment of Sint Maarten's CAPE, IB, and VWO Programs

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sport is pleased to announce the completion of the "Research Report on the Return on Investment of the CAPE, IB, and VWO Programs".

The report presents a comprehensive analysis of the performance, impact, and challenges of these pre-university programs in Sint Maarten.

Key findings include the need to improve student retention, address teacher recruitment challenges, and invest in infrastructure to ensure the sustainability of these programs and optimize the substantial financial investments made.

Additionally, strategic actions to enhance student participation and efficiency are proposed, ensuring that students are prepared for higher education and the workforce.

The report was made possible through collaboration with educational stakeholders, including the Division of Exams, Division of Inspection ECYS, St. Maarten Academy, St. Dominic High School, and Milton Peters College, whose insights made it possible to understand the unique achievements and challenges of each program.

Moving forward, the Ministry will be working closely with stakeholders to develop and implement strategies aimed at improving educational outcomes and supporting the long-term success of the CAPE, IB, and VWO programs.

The Ministry would like to thank stakeholders for their valuable contributions to this research initiative, and for their continued commitment to advancing the quality of education in Sint Maarten.

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Ongoing Investigation into Male Found Deceased in Dutch Quarter Thursday evening

SINT MAARTEN (DUTCH QUARTER) - The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is currently investigating an incident in which a male was found lying in the middle of the road near the entrance of Garden of Eden in Dutch Quarter on the evening of Thursday, February 6, 2025.

Just before 9:00 PM, the Police Central Dispatch received multiple calls reporting a person down in the roadway. Upon arrival, patrol officers found an unresponsive male on the ground. Shortly thereafter, paramedics arrived at the scene and confirmed that the victim had passed away.

Detectives and forensic personnel were immediately dispatched to the location to begin their investigation. At this time, the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. Authorities are working to gather more information and determine the cause of death.

Further updates will be provided as soon as more details become available. The Sint Maarten Police Force urges anyone with information related to this incident to contact us via the emergency line 911 or the anonymous tip line 9300.

Police at the scene two

 

 

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Alicia’s Inn N.V. becomes the First Boutique Hotel to engage in Comprehensive Guest Safety Audit

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Alicia’s Inn N.V., a distinguished boutique hotel in Sint Maarten, is reinforcing its commitment to guest safety by becoming the first boutique hotel on the island to undergo a comprehensive Guest Safety Audit.

This initiative strengthens the hotel’s dedication to excellence, following its successful ISO 9001:2015 pre-assessment in 2019, conducted by Lead Auditors Terence Jandroep (Benjamin & Parker Corp) and Natasha Manuela (Prudential Tax Services), and its five consecutive recognitions by TripAdvisor for outstanding hospitality.

Conducted by Colombian Certified Risk Auditor Terence Jandroep, this rigorous Guest Safety Audit ensures compliance with international standards, including and is designed to identify potential safety risks, enhance emergency response protocols, and uphold the highest standards in guest security, safety and well-being.

Key Highlights of the Guest Safety Audit:

Enhanced Guest Security: Thorough evaluation of room safety, emergency preparedness, and physical security measures.

Crisis Management Readiness: Establishing protocols for critical incidents, including guest health emergencies and contagious disease outbreaks.

Prevention of Misconduct and Abuse: Strengthening response procedures to protect guests and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.

International Standard Compliance: Aligning operations with global best practices to maintain trust and transparency.

“At Alicia’s Inn N.V., guest safety is not just a priority—it’s a core value,” said Mrs. Jeanina Dupersoy, General Manager of Alicia’s Inn. “Our commitment to quality was evident when we passed our ISO 9001:2015 pre-assessment in 2019, thanks to the expertise of Mr. Terence Jandroep of Benjamin & Parker Corp. and Mrs. Natasha Manuela of Prudential Tax Services, and it continues today with our dedication to safety excellence.

The five consecutive TripAdvisor recognitions we’ve received reflect our unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction, and this audit further ensures we provide a secure and exceptional experience.”

With this milestone, Alicia’s Inn N.V. sets a completely new benchmark in Sint Maarten’s hospitality industry, reaffirming its reputation as a leader in quality, safety, and service excellence.

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L to R: Terence Jandroep of Benjamin & Parker Corp. and Jeanina Dupersoy, General Manager of Alicia’s Inn

 

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KPSM Addresses Allegations of Sexual Harassment

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - In response to recent allegations of sexual harassment within the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM), the Management Team unequivocally condemns any form of sexual misconduct. Such behavior is a violation of our fundamental principles and undermines the trust and safety of both our organization and the community we serve.

KPSM remains committed to fostering a safe and respectful workplace for all employees, regardless of rank or position. Sexual harassment and misconduct have no place in our organization, and we take all reports of such behavior seriously.

In the past, reported incidents of sexual misconduct have been thoroughly investigated by the appropriate authorities, including the Prosecutor's Office, the National Detectives, and the Department of Internal Affairs. Any recent incidents that have been reported are also currently under investigation by the relevant agencies to ensure accountability and justice. To prevent and address these serious issues, KPSM has implemented and will continue to strengthen the following initiatives:

  • Conducting thorough and transparent investigations into all allegations of sexual harassment.
  • Implementing mandatory training programs for all staff to promote awareness and prevention.
  • Advancing a culture change program within the organization.
  • Reviewing and reinforcing policies and procedures to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.

As a learning organization, KPSM remains steadfast in its mission to serve with honor and integrity. We reaffirm our zero-tolerance stance against any behavior that undermines the dignity and respect of our officers and the public. While awaiting the outcome of ongoing investigations, we remain committed to justice, ethical conduct, and rebuilding trust within our ranks and the community.

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Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua & Barbuda set to drive industry growth and innovation in 2025

SINT MAARTEN/MIAMI, Fla. – After a historic 2024 that shattered visitor records and delivered transformative advocacy wins, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), is setting the stage for meaningful progress and development for the industry and its members. Sanovnik Destang, Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resorts and President of CHTA, unveiled a bold vision for 2025 centered on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration—promising to position the region as a global leader in tourism and economic development.

A Year of Growth and Resilience

“The Caribbean achieved unparalleled success in 2024, thanks to the collective strength of our community,” said Destang. “We recorded historic visitor numbers, tackled legislative challenges, and made strides in connecting tourism with other vital economic sectors.”

Among the most significant achievements for economic growth was a tax advocacy effort in the Dominican Republic, which helped preserve vital tax incentives for hotels and tourism businesses that had been under threat of removal due to proposed tax reforms.

The year also saw the establishment of the Linkages Task Force, led by former CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig, to strengthen connections between tourism and sectors such as agriculture and local businesses, fostering a more inclusive economic model.

Additionally, the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) and the return of Taste of the Caribbean provided valuable platforms to showcase regional excellence, foster collaboration, and drive innovation.

Building on the Success of 2024: Looking Ahead to 2025

With the momentum from a record-breaking year, CHTA is now setting its sights on 2025. According to travel intelligence company Forward Keys, the island of Curaçao has seen a 16 percent increase in flight bookings for the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, while Sint Maarten and Antigua and Barbuda have each recorded an 11 percent increase.

Capitalizing on these strong early trends, CHTA’s 2025 strategy will focus on three transformative pillars:

Developing the Region’s Workforce: New training initiatives will equip hospitality professionals with the skills needed to keep the Caribbean competitive on a global scale.

Harnessing Technology: Enhancing guest experiences and improving operational efficiency through digital transformation remains a top priority.

Strengthening Linkages: Deepening connections between tourism and local industries to drive sustainable growth and enrich visitor experiences.

“A key part of this vision is our 2025 work plan, which also includes updates to our bylaws to modernize governance and ensure CHTA remains agile, inclusive, and future-focused,” Destang explained.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025: A First for Antigua & Barbuda

One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Caribbean Travel Marketplace, will be hosted in Antigua & Barbuda for the first time. This marks only the third time the event has been held in the Eastern Caribbean. Marketplace 2025 will offer an enhanced experience with features such as the Linkages Trade Show, Responsible Tourism Day, and the Direct Booking Summit – Caribbean Edition, all designed to foster collaboration, innovation and drive business to the region and CHTA members.

“Caribbean Travel Marketplace, along with supplemental CHTA events this year, will serve as a catalyst for collaboration and new ideas, setting the stage for the future of Caribbean tourism,” Destang added.

With a steadfast commitment to partnership, innovation, and sustainability, CHTA is poised to lead the region into a new era of opportunity.

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GRACE HILL BIBLE UNIVERSITY HOSTS TRANSFORMATIVE SUICIDE PREVENTION MASTER CLASS

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - On January 20th, the Grace Hill Bible University, St. Maarten Campus’ counseling degree program, in partnership with Victorious Living Foundation and the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labor (VSA), hosted a transformative suicide prevention Master Class under the theme, "Igniting Hope in Our Community: Preventing Suicide."

Held at the St. Maarten Government Administration Building, the event aimed to raise awareness and provide critical tools for suicide assessment, prevention, and treatment.

With over 300 attendees participating in person and online—and more than 1,000 total views since the event—it was clear this initiative struck a chord within the community. Suicide affects people of all ages and backgrounds, and the Master Class served as a crucial step toward breaking the stigma surrounding mental health conversations on the island.

The event was spearheaded by Dr. Erna Mae Francis-Cotton, along with Master’s Counseling Degree students Minerva Warner Hughes, Georges Richardson, Barbara Cocks, Pastor Vital Dominique, and Sachida Thomasia-Hyman. Together, they demonstrated the power of education and collaboration in addressing this pressing issue.

Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labor, the Honorable Mr. Richinel Brug, emphasized the importance of initiatives like these during his address. “When Mrs. Erna Mae Francis-Cotton approached us with this initiative, there was no hesitation. Victorious Living Foundation has always been about improving lives, and VSA shares that same mission. This partnership was a natural fit. If you have future projects, just reach out,” he said.

Minister Brug further highlighted the timeliness of the event: “This initiative is long overdue, especially considering the lives lost over the past year. Suicide has often been treated as a taboo topic in our community, but by addressing it head-on, you’re breaking barriers and making a lasting impact.”

The Master Class featured insightful presentations from the Master’s Counseling Degree students, covering topics such as youth suicide, substance abuse, and tailored prevention strategies for clergy. Attendees also benefited from the expertise of keynote speaker Dr. Ann Marlin Evans, who stressed the urgency of innovative solutions to support those in need.

Minister Brug extended his gratitude to the organizers and participants, expressing his hope for more initiatives that shed light on mental health challenges. This event demonstrated the power of community partnerships and underscored the need to continue fostering open conversations about mental health and wellness.

For more information on upcoming initiatives or support, please contact Grace Hill Bible University or the Ministry of VSA. Together, we can keep igniting hope in our community.

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Police Holds Introductory Ceremony for BPO-6 Class of 2025

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Sint-Maarten Police Force (KPSM) hosted a brief but meaningful introductory ceremony on Monday, January 27, 2025, at the Philipsburg Police Station to officially welcome the BPO-6 Class of 2025.

This class comprises police recruits from Sint-Maarten and the Caribbean Netherlands, marking the beginning of their two-year training program.

During the ceremony, speeches of encouragement were delivered by several distinguished leaders:

  • The Honorable Minister of Justice, Mr. N. Tackling
  • The Chief of Police of the Dutch Caribbean, Mr. A. Braaf
  • The Chief of Police of Sint-Maarten, Mr. C. John
  • The Academy’s School Coordinator, Mr. J. Ruts

The speakers emphasized the importance of the recruits’ chosen career, reminding them that being a police officer is a calling rooted in service to the community. Integrity was highlighted as a fundamental value they must uphold in their future roles.

The recruits were encouraged to remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting and serving with honor and dedication.

The BPO-6 Class of 2025 will undergo comprehensive training on Sint-Maarten, managed by the National Police Academy (NPA). KPSM expressed its gratitude to the Chief of Police of the Caribbean Netherlands, the NPA Academy, its instructors, and the dedicated coordinators who have made this important milestone possible.

KPSM extends its best wishes to the recruits as they embark on this challenging yet rewarding journey. Over the next two years, these individuals will develop the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to serve and protect their communities with integrity and professionalism.

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Alleyway Transformation Planned by Be The Change Foundation & Partners

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - An alleyway is being transformed as part of Be The Change Foundation (BTC), @ColorMeSXM initiative. Twenty-two murals have been added to Philipsburg by local and regional artists, since the project’s inception in 2020.

This alleyway project will feature our largest mural yet, spanning over 210m²! @ColorMeSXM is our way of uplifting Philipsburg, showcasing the talents of local and regional artists, and creating a unique activity for residents and visitors through a self-guided map. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support from artists, the community, and grant agencies,” said BTC’s Project Coordinator Laura Bijnsdorp.

The upcoming transformation is executed in collaboration with Plastic Free SXM, an initiative aimed at reducing single-use plastics on the island through community action and legislative reform. Plastic Free SXM is executed by St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF) on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten, and supported by the Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity (RESEMBID) programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by Expertise France.

Artists Nascha Kagie and Daphne Prevoo will take lead in designing the large mural depicting a fantastical underwater world, while highlighting the environmental threats of plastic pollution. "However, to complete the mural, we will need a lot of helpful and creative volunteers, as this is a massive project," shared Nascha & Daphne. Interested volunteers can follow Plastic Free SXM on Instagram & Facebook - where the volunteer opportunities will be posted, as well as on www.volunteer.sx

The designated alleyway for this project, Afloopsteeg, located next to Seaview Beach Hotel, will first undergo cleaning, preparation, and base-layer painting under the guidance of LICCOM Construction, a key partner in the initiative. “We are proud to contribute to this community project, enhancing Philipsburg through art, and eagerly anticipate the final result,” shared Henk Van den Heuvel, Director of LICCOM Construction. Other key supporters include the Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, and Philipsburg community and business representatives.

The mural is expected to be completed over the next several weeks with opportunities for community members to assist the artists during the process. Updates on the project will be shared on Facebook (Be The Change Foundation) and Instagram (@ColorMeSXM).

For more information about Plastic Free SXM visit @plasticfreesxm (Facebook & Instagram) or www.plasticfree.sx

RESEMBID is a 47-project programme that supports sustainable human development efforts in 12 Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) – Aruba, Anguilla, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Montserrat, Saba, Sint Eustatius, Saint Barthélemy, Sint Maarten, and Turks and Caicos.

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MP Lacroes Seeks Clarity on the possibility to invite Foreign Embassy’s to Sint Maarten

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Member of Parliament (MP) Lacroes of the United People's Party (UPP) has submitted a series of questions to Prime Minister Mercelina seeking clarification on the process through which foreign embassies are invited to St. Maarten.

MP Lacroes expressed in an invited comment concern about the citizens of several countries who live here and are faced with challenges in updating their legal documents due to civil unrest or other adverse conditions in their home countries.

Many of these citizens, residing on the island, currently have no feasible means to access consular services or renew their documentation in their respective embassies.

MP Lacroes emphasized the importance of St. Maarten ensuring that citizens of foreign nations have access to essential services like document renewal, particularly when civil unrest in their home countries makes it difficult or impossible for them to travel to embassies abroad.

“Many of these citizens rely on the consular services of their embassies to update their personal documents to remain or become legal in our country, and the inability to do so creates significant challenges for them. I believe it is important to understand the process behind inviting embassies to conduct consular services in St. Maarten and how we can support these efforts,” MP Lacroes stated.

The Member of parliament has received a request from more than one hundred and ten (110) persons who are faced with this challenge in St. Maarten.

The questions submitted by MP Lacroes aims to understand the criteria, procedures, and any existing partnerships or arrangements that allow foreign embassies to operate in St. Maarten.

The MP also seeks clarity on any support or considerations that can be extended to citizens who are unable to travel due to conditions beyond their control. A response from Prime Minister Mercelina is expected in the coming weeks.

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Maduro & Curiel's Bank announces updates to its Management Board

SINT MAARTEN/CURACAO - Maduro & Curiel’s Bank (MCB) announces that Bill Said, a current member of the Management Board, will be appointed as MCB Group Head in addition to his current role of Managing Director effective May 1, 2025.

In this role he will assume the business line responsibilities of Michael de Sola, who has decided to leave the bank after fifteen years on MCB’s Management Board. Michael remains available as needed through 2025 to ensure a smooth transition. In addition, Cris van Kempen, currently Chief Risk Officer for MCB for the past five years, will join the Management Board as of July 1, 2025.

Lionel (Chicu) Capriles II, President & CEO of MCB, fully respects Michael’s decision. “Michael has a long track record on our Management Board and his contributions have been exemplary. On behalf of all of us at MCB I would like to thank Michael enormously for his significant contributions and appreciate that he will continue to be available this year to ensure a seamless handover.

Bill has been on our Management Board for over two years now and has helped the bank reach new heights. His strong focus on customer experience and exposure to international best practices will serve the bank and its customers well. I am also pleased that Cris will join the Management Board, ensuring risk expertise is well represented in our leadership team. Having both Bill and Cris on the Management Board with their familiarity with our bank and community ensures strong continuity.”

In an explanation of his decision, Michael says: “I have had a fantastic time at MCB, with wonderful colleagues and loyal customers. After fifteen years I now want to explore other challenges outside the bank. MCB is in a good position, so I can make this change later this year with peace of mind.”

Bill Said adds: “MCB is very active in the local economy and Chicu, Michael and I are fully aligned in understanding the importance of the bank to the community. It is an honor to serve the bank, its clients and other stakeholders, and I look forward to continuing and expanding our strong relationships in all the islands we serve.

Cris van Kempen comments: “It is a privilege to join the Management Board of a bank with such a strong legacy and important role in the community. I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue building on our success and contributing to the bank’s stability and growth.”

Cris van Kempen’s appointment to the Management Board is subject to customary regulatory and shareholder approval.

The succession process for a new President & CEO is fully on schedule. In March 2024, Chicu announced that he will step down in 2025. The bank’s Supervisory Board immediately started a process for a successor, and it is well on track.

The Supervisory Board’s priority is to ensure continuity in the Management Board, maintaining the bank’s long tradition of stability, excellence and service.

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