President Danny Faure visited the Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA) and the Seychelles Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture (SIAH) this morning, as part of his weekly site visits to various institutions.

He was welcomed to STA by the Chairman, Mr John Stravens, the Principal, Mr Flavien Joubert, Resident Manager, Mr Michel Athanase, STA Representative in the Seychelles National Youth Assembly and winner of the Young Chef Rising Star Award 2019, Ms Tracie Uranie, and the President of the Student Council, Ms Sheriffa Amisse.

The President visited the facilities at STA, including the STA Educational Bus Shelter, the STA Pioneers Park, the language laboratory, holistic healing centre, and the wellness and spa centre. He had the opportunity to meet students and long-serving members of staff, including Ms Maggy Tirant at the library and research centre who has completed 26 years of service, and Mr Antonio Barra, who has been working for 30 years in the tourism sector.

Following his site visit, the President met with members of the senior management team where the challenges and strengths of STA were discussed. The President thanked the members of staff for their hard work and dedication, and congratulated them for the consistently excellent results of STA. He assured the team of his full support. He described the work of STA as critical to the country, and encouraged the management team to continue their efforts to ensure Seychellois are well-trained and able to progress to management positions in the hotel industry.

The President then proceeded to SIAH at Anse La Mouche where he was welcomed by the Director, Mrs Maryanne Marie. He visited the facilities including the nursery, equipment store, the various animal pens, field workers’ offices, the administration block, and the classrooms.

Following his visit, the President chaired a meeting with senior management, where challenges and possible solutions were discussed. The Director, Mrs Marie, outlined some of the main challenges facing SIAH, including a lack of human resource and attracting well-qualified staff. She explained how SIAH is currently developing its curriculum to align with the specific training needs of the country. The President thanked the management team for their hard work, and assured them of his full support moving forward. He also discussed the extensive renovation plans for SIAH, and efforts to minimise any associated disruptions. Mrs Marie said that this year saw the highest class intake which was very positive, and thanked the President for his visit.