Last Updated on January 31, 2025, 11:12 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Dr Ricardo R. Neil was announced as the Goodwill Ambassador for Science and Technology, during the Post Cabinet Meeting which was held on Monday, January 27, 2025, under the guidance of Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew.
Dr. Neil, a renowned expert in mechanical and industrial technology and Chairman of both the St Kitts and Nevis (SKN) and OECS Robotics Associations, is appointed to promote the incorporation of science and technology into education, encourage entrepreneurship in the technology sector, and support renewable energy initiatives, including:-
- Solar Photovoltaic
- Geothermal Energy Projects
The members of the Cabinet discussed various topics including advancement of key policies to enhance the well-being of all the citizens and residents of the twin island nation.
National Training Institute
Plans for a National Training Institute were presented during the meeting by the CEO of the TVET Council Secretariat Dr Kertney thompson, and Lisa Romayne-Pistana, Permanent Secretary on the Ministry of Education, which will merge the Advanced Vocational Educational Centre (AVEC), Project Strong, and the National Skills Training Programme (NSTP).
The Institute will offer National and Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (NVQ/CVQ) from Levels 1 to 8, along with diplomas and associate degrees in renewable energy, aquaculture, animation, music production, and maritime transport.
Furthermore, it will also include the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Programme, to promote personal, social, and economic development.
Sustainable Modernized Administrative Revenue and Taxation Systems
An update on the Sustainable Modernized Administrative Revenue and Taxation Systems (SMARTS) was received during the meeting, which was presented by Edward Gift, Comptroller of the Inland Revenue Department.
He shared that the updated version is designed to digitalize the government’s revenue collection while improving service delivery for its users.
SMARTS is an online self-service portal for taxpayers, a cash register for real-time payment processing, and streamlined services through its smooth integration with the Traffic Department’s Motor Vehicle and Driver License System.
Vehicles and Road traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2025
Vehicles and Road traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was also approved during the meeting, to create safer roads by introducing enhanced penalties for traffic violations.
The Bill also introduces modernized enforcement by using technology, and implementation of road safety incentives along with increased fines.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
