GREAT BAY--A review of St. Maarten’s draft 2027 national budget shows that the seven ministries are collectively budgeting approximately Cg 2.83 million for “Vervoermiddelenkosten,” or vehicle-related operating costs, compared with approximately Cg 2.17 million in the 2026 budget. That represents an increase of Cg 662,947, or 30.5 percent. The figures were taken from the ordinary-service expenditure tables in the draft budget submitted to Parliament.

GREAT BAY--Young people in St. Maarten are beginning to look more critically at what they see online, while education professionals are gaining first-hand experience with practical ways to bring artificial intelligence, media literacy and digital literacy into the classroom.

GREAT BAY--The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (ECYS) has taken an important step toward strengthening vocational education and improving the connection between education and the labor market in St. Maarten.

GREAT BAY--A man decides to have his PSA checked. He gets the blood test, receives the result, speaks with his doctor and continues with whatever follow-up is necessary. For many men, that entire process remains known only to themselves, their doctor and perhaps their partner. There is nothing wrong with that. Medical information is personal, and no man should feel obligated to disclose his PSA number, diagnosis or treatment to anyone.

GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Dimar Labega has expressed support for the St. Maarten Drag Racing Association as six local race cars prepare to represent the country at the Grenada International Drags 2026, while also facilitating a recent meeting between the association and Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (ECYS) Melissa Gumbs to discuss the longer-term development of motorsport in St. Maarten.

GREAT BAY--Approximately 400 volunteers and students took part in the 2026 International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) across St. Maarten and French Saint-Martin, collecting more than 1,554 kilograms of litter and debris from beaches, coastlines, waterways and surrounding areas over three days.