<B>IVTB expands</B>

The Industrial & Vocational Training Board (IVTB) is redefining its priorities. From now on, it will improve its courses and offer ones that other institutions do not offer. Various

programmes designed specially for ex-textile employees that need retraining and people from vulnerable groups will be implemented,

taking into consideration the need for an IT labour force. Other projects include a business development consultancy division, online learning and career guidance.

<B>Severe report on MBC </B>

After examining the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation Act, Sir Victor Glover?s report has the avowed intention of making the MBC «neutral and accurate in its broadcasts». He criticises the fact that certain measures promote the MBC?s impartiality and independence, while others allow the Minister to give directives to the board of directors. He deplores the scarcity of English and the absence of a cultural channel. He proposes a better control of recruitment, since the MBC is, according to him, «overstaffed».

<B>Mother reported missing</B>

On 30th January, Rehanah Omarjee left her home in Curepipe and has never been seen since. Her family is at a loss about her disappearance. She has been married to Yousouf Omarjee for the past 16 years and they have two children, both in their teens. Her husband is adamant that he cannot think of a reason why she would leave them, although she had apparently been keeping to herself much more than usual before going missing. The CID of Curepipe is investigating the case.

<B>Electronic voting demo </B>

The Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is arousing doubts in people?s minds. Representatives of most parties were at Sir Harilall Vaghjee Hall for its presentation by Bharati Electronics Limited. The company exposed the quality, reliability and practical side of its product. They insisted that it would simplify the voting system. On the electors? side, it would be easy to use. As it is electronic, it would be reliable and the results would be made public on the same day. In a nutshell, this new system would allow ?free, fair and fast elections». Parties agree that our voting system has to be modernised. However, many points have to be cleared regarding confidentiality and safety before the EVM, which demands heavy investment, is accepted. There is also some worry about the risk of falsifying election results.

<B>School intoxication </B>

The reason for the intoxication of nine pupils of Rose Belle North Government School is still unknown. After noticing a strange smell, some pupils and teachers started to feel an irritation around their eyes, noses and mouths. They were taken to hospital and some of them were kept under observation for a few days before being allowed to go home.