The Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) has taken a firm stance against what it terms “fabricated” claims made by graduates who say they are unable to find employment after finishing their studies. TSLS CEO Hasmukh Lal pointed out that some graduates have resorted to emotional manipulation to gain permission for overseas travel.
In sports news, Lautoka has emerged as the champion of the Battle of the Giants soccer tournament.
In other exciting developments, Saint Lucia is celebrating an Olympic champion! Local athlete Julien Alfred has made history by becoming a world-renowned sprinter, prompting widespread rejoicing among fans back home. Thousands gathered in Saint Lucia to watch the women’s 100m final, where all eyes were on American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson as she took to the track.
Amid the anticipation, Julien Alfred prepared for what would be a race that changed her life. As the race unfolded, a wave of joy swept through the crowd, culminating in jubilant celebrations as Alfred crossed the finish line victoriously.
Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Phillip J. Pierre, expressed his exuberance for Alfred’s achievement in a conversation with Jamaican station Nationwide90FM, stating, “I am happy, I am happy, I am happy; that’s all I can say.” He called the day historic and shared his joy on social media, dubbing August 3 “Juju Day” in honor of Alfred’s accomplishments.
Alfred’s journey has been one of perseverance and dedication. Her rise to prominence began with notable successes in youth athletics, including a gold medal at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games and a silver at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games. During her college years at the University of Texas, she secured two NCAA titles in the 100m and one in the 200m.
Alfred represented Saint Lucia at the 2023 World Athletics Championship, finishing fourth in the 200m and fifth in the 100m. She continued to excel, winning the 60m race at the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships in 6.98 seconds, and marking her career with a remarkable 10.72 seconds in the 100m final in Paris.
At the age of 23, Alfred has become a symbol of hope and aspiration for many, and her achievements underscore the need for better sports facilities in Saint Lucia. She expressed her desire for her gold medal to inspire the construction of a new stadium to foster athletic growth in the country.
As the world looks forward to upcoming events, Alfred serves as a reminder that with determination and self-belief, remarkable achievements are possible, igniting hope for future sporting triumphs for Saint Lucia.