PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), joined the international community in observing World Oral Health Day (WOHD) on Friday, March 20, under the theme “A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Life” with students at the St. Joseph Primary School with second graders.

The students were given vital information on what is necessary for good oral hygiene. They were taught the brushing

and flossing technique.

Each child got the opportunity to brush their teeth for two (2) minutes using their individual timer. The book "Melvin the Magnificent Molar," written by Julia Cook & Laura Jana, MD, was presented to the school, along with an enlarged tooth mouth model.

Parents and guardians are reminded of the importance of teaching children good oral hygiene habits from an early age. Encouraging children to brush properly and consistently helps lay the foundation for lifelong dental health.

Good oral care practices established in childhood can prevent many common dental problems later in life.

The annual observance highlights the importance of good oral hygiene and reminds the public that maintaining healthy teeth and gums is an essential part of overall health and well-being.

Oral health plays a major role in everyday life. Healthy teeth and gums help people eat properly, speak clearly, smile with confidence, and avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort.

Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other health complications that may affect a person’s quality of life. CPS is encouraging residents of all ages to make oral care a daily priority and to understand that prevention begins at home.

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is one of the most important steps in protecting oral health.

Regular brushing helps remove plaque, prevent cavities, and reduce the risk of gum disease. CPS also encourages the public to floss daily, reduce sugary foods and drinks, drink plenty of water, and visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. These simple habits can make a significant difference in keeping the mouth healthy.

PHILIPSBURG:---  Internationally trained dancer, choreographer, and dance educator Clifford Henry has returned to Sint Maarten to conduct a series of dance workshops across the island, continuing his commitment to giving back to the community that shaped his artistic journey. Born and raised on Sint Maarten, Henry began his dance training at the National Institute of Arts (NIA), studying under respected teachers Clara Reyes, Arlene Halley, Rudolph Davis, Peggy Oulerich, Jerry Vanterpool, and Eolia ”Bee-Bee” Ada. His early foundation included ballet, modern, Horton technique, African dance, hip-hop, jazz, and other movement forms that would later influence his multidisciplinary approach to dance education. Mr. Henry also studied Capoeira under the guidance of Tyrone Phelipa.

In 2017, Henry left Sint Maarten after receiving a Talent Scholarship from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (MECYS) to pursue professional studies at the Amsterdam Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (AHK) in the Netherlands. He later received a second MECYS Talent Scholarship during his third year, supporting his transition into his final year of study.

Henry graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance Education, completing four years of intensive training. Throughout his studies at AHK, he remained actively engaged as a teacher and guest instructor, leading dance workshops, lectures, and educational sessions on various dance forms.

These experiences deepened his understanding of dance not only as movement, but as a process of connection, adaptation, discipline, and personal development.

“Dance is more than just flowing movement,” says Henry. “It’s about awareness—knowing when to stop, when to go, and how to connect the body, mind, and intention. That understanding continues to evolve.”

Following his graduation, Henry expanded his professional expertise by enrolling in Physiotherapy at the University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam, beginning his studies in 2022. His academic journey in physiotherapy—expected to conclude in 2026—has allowed him to research and explore the human body, muscle function, and movement mechanics, further enriching his approach to dance training and injury prevention. Alongside his academic and artistic pursuits, Henry also works as a Hospitality Manager at Corendon Hotel near Schiphol Airport, balancing leadership responsibilities with his passion for the arts. He is additionally active as a Capoeira instructor, continuing to train and attend workshops whenever possible.

During his visit to Sint Maarten, Henry led multiple workshops at local dance schools, sharing international knowledge, technical skills, and inspiration with young dancers. His return represents not only a homecoming, but a meaningful investment in the island’s cultural and artistic future.

“I am forever grateful for my teachers, family, and friends who supported me every step of the way,” Henry adds. “Giving back to Sint Maarten through dance is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Justice continues to advance important reforms in the country’s detention sector through the Detention Sector Reform Program (DSRP), with several key initiatives in recent months highlighting the program’s multi-layered approach to strengthening the justice system.

One major milestone was the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Point Blanche detention facility, marking the start of construction for a modern correctional facility designed to improve security, working conditions, and rehabilitation opportunities. The program's infrastructure component is being implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in partnership with the Government of Sint Maarten.

Alongside infrastructure development, the program also focuses on strengthening institutional practices and rehabilitation-oriented approaches within the detention system. These efforts form part of the soft component of the DSRP, which is being implemented with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Recent activities under this component included a Prison Education Workshop that brought together partners from the justice, education, and social development sectors to explore ways to strengthen learning opportunities within the detention environment.

A case management workshop involving Judicial and Institutional Services (SJIS) and Pointe Blanche Prison staff also provided a platform for justice-sector professionals to discuss improvements to assessment processes, coordination, and rehabilitation planning for individuals within the system.

Further strengthening staff capacity, two correctional officers participated in the Erasmus+ Youth Worker Seminar, Capacity-building for Openness, Resilience & Empathy (CORE), held in Aruba. The training focused on communication, emotional intelligence, resilience, and inclusive practices, equipping officers with practical tools to support more effective and humane rehabilitation approaches within the detention environment. The knowledge gained will be shared internally to further strengthen staff capacity.

The Point Blanche Detention Center also hosted an author visit and book donation initiative, organized in collaboration with the Art Saves Lives Foundation. During the visit, formerly incarcerated author Shaka Senghor and Sint Maarten author Alesco E. Violenes, who was himself formerly incarcerated at Point Blanche, engaged directly with inmates on the themes of personal growth, accountability, and transformation. A total of 100 books were donated, ensuring that every incarcerated individual will have access to reading materials that encourage reflection and personal development.

Another important development in recent weeks has been the arrival of correctional officers from Suriname, who are providing temporary support to operations at the Point Blanche detention facility. This cooperation forms part of ongoing efforts to stabilize operations, support existing staff, and create space for continued training and recruitment of local officers as broader detention sector reforms continue.

The Detention Sector Reform Program represents a comprehensive effort to strengthen Sint Maarten’s detention sector by improving infrastructure, enhancing institutional capacity, and promoting rehabilitation-focused approaches that contribute to safer communities.

The Ministry of Justice will continue working with national and international partners to advance these reforms as the country moves toward the development of a modern detention system that reflects both international standards and Sint Maarten’s local context.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Success studying in the Netherlands starts with proper preparation. Consequently, the Student Support Services Division (SSSD) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports Affairs is again hosting the exciting workshop titled “Mindfulness: Success in Studying in The Netherlands (Part I)” on March 26, 2026, at the University of St. Martin from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

This workshop, the first of a two-part series, is specifically geared at students planning to continue their studies in the Netherlands, and it is free of charge.

“Whether you're about to graduate, preparing for exams, or a recent graduate and are planning to study in the Netherlands, this workshop is for you,” say SSSD officials.

The psycho-social aspects of studying abroad will be the focus of these workshops. Aspects such as managing the personal, emotional, and social challenges that often come with the move will be dealt with.

What to expect in Part I:

• What life is really like in the Netherlands—from everyday routines to cultural differences.
• How to deal with homesickness and feelings of being overwhelmed.
• Tips for making group interactions easier and more meaningful.

• Dealing with emotional distress and depression.
• Building protective shields.
• The importance of learning Dutch and how it can boost your experience.

Participants are encouraged to attend both workshops to get the full experience. The workshops are interactive, offering participants tips and a chance to ask burning questions.

“Many students leave the island feeling unprepared to face the challenges in the Netherlands, and the goal of these workshops is to make sure they are ready to succeed. All students, whether they are going to the Netherlands as free-movers or with government financing, are invited to this workshop,” SSSD officials note.

Students are encouraged to contact SSSD at 543-1235 or email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to register for the workshop on March 26, 2026 or to obtain more information. Interested persons can also visit the SSSD office in the Gatspy Building, across from the Police Station and next to WIB. 

The Student Support Services Division (SSSD) provides services to students referred by schools, including psychological, counseling, social work, educational diagnostic, and speech-language pathology services. SSSD also provides general services such as career services, parent sessions, and school crisis response.