What a Republic means to me
THE date is set and a new path is being laid for Barbados. But what does it really mean for the people of Barbados?
The country has transformed from a sugar plantation industry to one which focuses on service and the hospitality industry.
Barbadians transformed academically through free education, access to finances to build their businesses, homes and organisations.
But in the process, we have incurred tremendous debt, high unemployment, and gradual deterioration of critical social systems with the public sector.
Our health is one of our biggest losses. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are reducing the life expectancy of those who are expected to build the country. Many young people are facing mental health issues due to social hardships and the use of illegal and legal substances.
If Barbados is to recover and thrive, there are specific steps that this new governing system must take.
Ease of doing business
The days of long lines and poor customer experience must be in the rear-view mirror of our history.
The idea of people having to wait days or weeks to get a response must change. It must affect all sectors from the public sector to the client-facing areas of health and hospitality.
Amend laws, policies
Some of the challenges that the country faces have to do with some of the laws and policies formed from an unyielding colonial legacy.
In a modern world, our legislators and policymakers have to amend these rules that continue to restrict our movement and progress as a people and as a society.
More youth training, innovation
This country as a republic will depend on the investment made into the youth. The youth need education, but they also need guidance as to how they will be able to contribute to society. We know that our children must have access to wholesome food and technology to help them succeed.
This is where the focus of the republic should be. We also have to better position ourselves as a country that has the resources to compete on a global market in STEM, creative industry and business.