The President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, accompanied by First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, honored the Seychelles Institute of Teacher Education (SITE) graduation ceremony with their presence yesterday afternoon. Held at the University of Seychelles Auditorium, the event celebrated the achievements of students who successfully completed their studies.

Misael Bristol was awarded the prestigious President’s Cup for his exceptional performance throughout his studies. Praised for his dedication and resilience, Bristol also received the Best Academic Award for his Diploma in Secondary Education with a specialization in French. Alongside Bristol, several other outstanding students were recognized for their academic and professional excellence:

Best Academic Award in Certificate in Childcare and Development: Ms. Shabella Etienne
Best Academic Award in Diploma in Early Childhood: Ms. Issa Nibourette
Best Professional Practice Award and Best Academic Award in Diploma in Primary Education: Ms. Sylvie Vielle
Best Professional Practice Award and Best Academic Award in Diploma in Secondary Education with Specialization in English: Ms. Jamila Figaro
Best Academic Award in Diploma in Secondary Education with Specialization in History and Geography: Ms. Betty Constance
Most Improved Learner Award and Academic Award in Diploma in Secondary Education with Specialization in Mathematics: Ms. Lya Souffe
Best Male Award: Mr. Fabien Jeanne
Seychelles Institute of Teacher Education Award: Ms. Serena Flore

In her address, SITE Director Mrs. Mavis Lespoir urged graduates to embark on their teaching careers with an “innovative mind and positive attitude”. She emphasized the importance of leveraging acquired skills and knowledge to positively impact students’ lives. “In this digital age, the role of a teacher is evolving. Embrace new technology and innovative practices to engage and inspire your students. Continue to seek and adapt. Remember, education is not just about imparting knowledge, it is about inspiring curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing a love for learning,” Mrs. Lespoir stated.

The ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of 64 graduates from various teaching programs, including 30 with a Certificate in Childcare and Development, one with a Certificate in Education for Teacher Assistants, 11 with a Diploma in Early Childhood, 13 with a Diploma in Primary Education and nine with a Diploma in Secondary Education. This diverse range of qualifications underscores SITE’s commitment to preparing educators for all levels of the Seychelles education system.

Distinguished guests included Minister of Education Mr. Justin Valentine, Minister for Employment and Social Affairs Mrs. Patricia Francourt, Principal Secretary for Education Mr. John Lesperance, Chancellor of the University of Seychelles Mrs. Joelle Perreau, members of the SITE Governing Board, sponsors and other invited guests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

The European Union strongly condemns last night’s terrorist attack in Mogadishu, claimed by Al Shabaab. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish speedy recovery to those injured.

This brutal attack at Lido Beach against civilians underlines yet again Al Shabaab’s barbarity towards their own compatriots.

The EU stands in solidarity with the Government of Somalia and the Somali people and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism in all its forms.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of European Union External Action: The Diplomatic Service of the European Union.

On 30 July 2024, H.E. Mr. Russ Jalichandra, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, attended the Reception in Celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Throne Day of the Kingdom of Morocco, as Guest of Honour, at the Anantara Siam Bangkok.

In his remarks, the Vice Minister extended his sincerest congratulations to the Embassy of Kingdom of Morocco and the Moroccan people living in Thailand. He also highlighted the cordial relations between Thailand and Morocco throughout almost 40 years of diplomatic ties, enhanced by mutual cooperation in various fields, such as education, for development and in the multilateral flora, as well as the promotion of people-to-people contact, which includes Thailand’s 60-day visa exemption for Moroccan tourists.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand.

H.E. Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, will pay a visit to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on 3 August 2024.

Minister Fidan will meet with H.E. Taye Atske Selassie, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and will be received by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.