Supporters of the Barbados Labour Party are at this hour gathering, as the party kicks off its 85th Annual Conference, at the Christ Church Foundation School. It begins with a cocktail reception and awards ceremony, where more than 30 people will be recognised. When a CBC team visited this evening, teams were busy adding the final touches ahead of the start of the event. Minister of Home Affairs and Conference Chair, Wilfred Abrahams, has also addressed suggestions the set-up for the conference displaced the school’s students. A caller on a radio programme also took issue with the painting of the floor of the school hall.

A public apology to the disability community from a Government Minister, as he assures them work to protect the rights of people with disabilities is advancing. In fact, draft legislation is expected to be handed over to the Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Kirk Humphrey, by month-end. Sharika Griffith has the details.

The University of the West Indies at Cave Hill has recognised several of its students who have attained the highest classifications of degrees UWI can confer. They were the toast of the evening as the university hosted a reception in honour of scholarly excellence. Among the degrees conferred, bachelors with first class honours, masters with distinction and master or doctor of philosophy with high commendation. Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UWI Cave Hill, Professor Clive Landis acknowledged the sacrifices in light of the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He is confident the students are now better equipped with the knowledge needed to compete and strive in the world. PhD graduate, Senator Dr. Crystal Drakes in reminiscing on her journey, admits there were good and bad days. But she says she and her colleagues were determined to finish what they started.