From taxes to tickets and birth certificates to business permits, citizens will soon be able to pay for all these transactions through the over 1,000 NLCB terminals across the country.

The announcement comes following the official launch of the National Payment and Innovation Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NPICTT), formerly known as the Trinidad and Tobago International Financial Centre (TTIFC).

Speaking at the official launch on Friday, Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh, said the State-owned enterprise is not just a name change but a ‘payment gateway’ for all government services.

He said it’s been created to modernise, streamline and secure the collection and disbursement of all government payments.

"That's why the partnership with NLCB is important because now you can do that through the NLCB terminals, and you're going to have a number of these machines and different ones across the country. So you can actually now make a real payment because remember, we were a part of several pieces of legislation. The Data Protection Act, Electronic Transactions – we have amended the Exchequer and Audit Act. So it was always envisaged that at some stage we will move to making payments available to citizens."

John Outridge, from the National Payment and Innovation Company, said it will become the unified gateway for all public sector financial interactions, from paying taxes and renewing licences to collecting pensions or social grants.

"But the technology will actually go in place when that service goes live. It's supposed to happen next week. So online driver's permit renewal, payment for the certified copy. So the Ministry of Works, Licensing Division, is going to be the first agency, and we're going to be rolling out for different agencies. So you're expected to see in very quick succession payment options being available. But what makes this different to what the Minister is saying, is not just about persons who have bank accounts and cards, but because we also have the partnership with NLCB, people who operate in cash, people who in Marac, who in Mayaro, who in Tobago, so you're connecting all citizens."

The new company also breaks down long-standing silos between Ministries.

"What was really required, what the Minister has been able to do, particularly through the support of the Prime Minister is to really centralise all of that activity into one agency. So it's no longer just about the other agency coordinating and another implementing, everything happens in one shop. So you can expect to see very quick succession going forward."

Chairman of the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB), Ken Emrith, welcomed the partnership, noting that the NLCB not only had discussions with T&TEC to facilitate payment of electricity bills but also with the Couva-Tabaquite-Talparo Regional Corporation to facilitate payments for selected municipal services at its terminals.

He said this launch is a step further: "Today, through this collaboration with the NPICTT, our vision becomes even more meaningful. By integrating our established bill payment platform into the national payments ecosystem, we are creating a one-stop nationwide service point that puts government transactions and utility payment within the easy reach of each citizen."

For government agencies, the Ministry of Planning said the company will deliver faster collections, better cash flow, and reduced administrative burdens. In addition, real-time transaction tracking and automated reconciliation will improve financial accuracy, and integrated reporting will provide Ministries with better insight for policy and planning.

2 0

The Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence remains committed to ensuring that every citizen across the country can engage in the digital age with confidence and ease.

The affirmation came from Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Rhoda Patiram, at the official launch of the La Brea ICT Access Centre on Friday.

"For this government, access means opening the doors to opportunity, equipping our people with skills, and ensuring that communities have the tools and technology they need to succeed. That is precisely why we are gathered here this morning."

PS Patiram said the La Brea ICT Access Centre, located at the La Brea Community Centre, will be a transformative space in the area.

"It represents freedom to learn, to innovate, to connect, and to transform lives. It is the freedom for a student to complete an online course and become the first in her family to earn a degree. Freedom for a young entrepreneur to establish his first business in the digital space. And freedom for a grandparent to access essential government services without standing in long queues under the hot sun."

She is encouraging all residents to make good use of the space.

"Let this Centre be a place where ideas are born, where skills are sharpened, and where futures are built. Let it be a place where you can access technology and unlock your true potential. To our educators, community leaders, and local organisations, I encourage you to partner with us. Bring your programmes, your workshops, your mentorship to ensure that this Centre remains part of La Brea's development."

1 0

This Independence Day, the sounds of the Military Parade marching through the streets and the colourful burst of fireworks will be replaced with something quieter — but no less powerful.

In light of the ongoing State of Emergency, the Government has announced that August 31st will be observed as a National Day of Prayer and Reflection.

Here's more from Mahalia Joseph-Wharton.

7 0

Just four years after entering the banking sector, Ansa Bank is stepping boldly into the digital age, aiming not just to compete but to transform how banking is done in Trinidad and Tobago.

On Thursday, it officially launched its new mobile and online banking app.

Managing Director Savon Persad noted that although Ansa Bank entered the industry just four years ago, its goal was never to simply join the sector but to redefine it.

Guided by the principles of innovation, customer centricity, and competitive offerings, he said Ansa Bank aims to challenge the status quo and eliminate the friction found in everyday banking.

"With features such as 15-minute signups with cutting edge biometric technology to onboard new customers; instant transfers through quick pay, our P2P facility; in app loan application for immediate access to credit solutions, which few banks in fact have. We are making banking more effortless, more intuitive, and more accessible than ever without compromising on security or service excellence. Everything you need is now a few taps away."

Chairman of Ansa Merchant Bank, David Dulal-Whiteway, emphasised that the bank's vision goes beyond launching new products and services, as they are committed to deeper engagement, transforming every aspect of their relationship with customers.

"We exist to help our customers succeed. We care about you, and we will do whatever is required to assist you in your road to success. For those of you who have not tried us as yet, I encourage you to give us an opportunity to serve you. We are here for you. I encourage you to work with us as we reinvent banking."

Managing Director of Ansa Merchant Bank, Stephen Grell, described this launch as a landmark moment. He said for decades their business has been anchored in trust, service and stability, and while those values must remain their foundation, the way they deliver them must evolve.

"The world has gone digital, and with it our customers' expectations have changed. They want banking that is as fast as a message, as seamless as a swipe, and as secure as a vault. The group made a deliberate choice, not just to keep pace but to lead."

ANSA Bank opened to the public on April 6th, 2021, through the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Bank of Baroda (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited by ANSA Merchant Bank Limited.

5 2

Some said they'll miss doubles, while others are excited to try sushi and ramen. But they all share one common goal: representing the region with pride in Japanese classrooms.

Twenty participants from the Caribbean - 18 Trinbagonians and two Grenadians, are currently in Japan serving as cultural ambassadors and English Language Educators, through the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme.

The JET Programme, which was established in 1987, promotes cultural exchange and supports English language education in Japanese schools at the elementary to high school levels.

Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, Professor Prakash Persad, commended Japan for this Programme, saying it will be mutually beneficial to all countries involved.

"I think this is an excellent programme where our Caribbean people, Trinidad and Grenada in this instance, get exposed to Japanese culture. It's a good fusion. The Japanese are very disciplined, serious people. We are very creative, relaxed people. They are creative also. So I think this makes both sides benefit from it, you know, when you have this exposure to different cultures."

Twenty-nine-year-old Kadisha Edwards, who has a passion for language learning and a keen interest in Japanese culture, shared her expectations for the programme.

"I'm a big community person, and so I hope that in exchange for leaving this one behind, I'll be able to integrate with one there in Japan. I'd love to just make new friends, explore Japan, bring a lot of my Caribbean brightness to Japan as well. I have a lot of personal language goals as well. I want to get better at Japanese so I can better communicate with people, and I think for me personally my goals revolve around community and making sure that I'm a good integral part of whatever community I end up in Japan."

Another participant, Kerron Riley, said being open-minded is a key factor in excelling in the programme.

"Yes, there are introverted, shy people on the programme, but you just get plopped in a new country, and you have to navigate your way. You will definitely be more extroverted, trust me."

The JET participants will be in Japan for at least one year, with the option of extending their stay for another four years.

5 1

In honour of Steelpan Month, pannist Hanif Goodridge brings the sweet sounds of the national instrument to life through dynamic performances and cultural celebration.

As part of ongoing festivities, Goodridge showcases the steelpan’s rich legacy and evolving artistry, highlighting its power to unite, uplift, and inspire.

5 0

Elegance meets empowerment as Young Guild TT and The Model Image Workshop present their Passing Out Parade on Saturday 17th August, a showcase of poise, confidence, and creative growth.

Under the artistic direction of Richard Young, Creative Director, the event marks the culmination of weeks of intensive training in modelling, personal development, and image refinement.

This celebration highlights the emergence of the next generation of talent ready to make their mark in fashion, media, and beyond.

2 0

Fashion takes centre stage as Evolution of Fashion: Redefining the Future of Style debuts on Sunday, 24th August 2025, at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s.

This groundbreaking event showcases a dynamic collaboration between Canadian and Trinbagonian creatives, spotlighting innovation, cultural fusion, and forward-thinking design.

Ain Earle-Williams of The Fashion Arc plays a key role in curating this visionary experience, bringing together diverse talents to reimagine the future of fashion in the Caribbean and beyond.

6 0

Get ready for a celebration of all things mango! Mango Melee returns on Sunday, 31st August, at the Centre of Excellence, promising a day filled with flavour, culture, and creativity.

Founded and led by President Madonna Roudett, Mango Melee showcases the versatility of the beloved tropical fruit through culinary delights, local products, competitions, and family-friendly activities.

It’s a unique blend of tradition and innovation — a must-attend event for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

6 0