President James Michel received Ms. Medna Latulipe, the best academic student in Hotel Management 2016 of Shannon College, Ireland, at State House this morning. Ms. Latulipe had previously won the President’s Cup for being the most outstanding Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management (ADHM) graduate of 2014.

The President congratulated Ms. Latulipe on her success in and wished her success in her professional career.

"I am very proud of you and the outstanding results you have received at Shannon College. You have made us all very proud and your example will inspire other students, to show them what is possible when you study hard. The tourism industry needs young professionals like yourself to develop a higher standard of service and excellence. I know that we can count on young people like yourself to contribute to the development of the industry,” said the President Michel to Ms. Latulipe in their meeting.

Ms. Latulipe spoke to the President about her pride at her educational achievements and her hope for her professional progress. She also expressed her gratitude at the opportunity young Seychellois are being awarded to pursue their tertiary education in a career of their choice. The President and Ms. Latulipe further talked about the current opportunities for young graduates in hotel management.

Acknowledging that young graduates must learn about the job before getting managerial positions, Ms. Latulipe nevertheless stated that they “need to be given the opportunity to prove [themselves]”. President Michel encouraged her in her endeavour and reiterated the government’s support in facilitating the integration of Seychellois in management positions in the tourism industry.

Speaking to the local press after the meeting, Ms. Latulipe stated that motivation and determination were key to her being the recipient of the best academic student award. As she is interested in a post in human resources and training, she encourages young people interested in the tourism and hotel industry to use the opportunities available in order to contribute to Seychelles economy.

Shannon College, Ireland, has a partnership with the Seychelles Tourism Academy for the development of young tourism professionals.

Also present at the meeting this morning were the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Alain St. Ange, the Principal of Seychelles Tourism Academy Flavien Joubert, Mr. Flavien Joubert and the Director of Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management and understudy Principal, Ms. Diana Quatre.