President Faure received members of the 16th Cohort of the Seychelles National Youth Assembly (SNYA) at State House this morning.
Addressing the SNYA members and guests present, the President retraced the inception of the SNYA 16 years ago, when in his capacity as the Minister for Education and Youth, he launched as an educational forum aimed at empowering young leaders through an apolitical forum. He urged them to continue being a voice for fellow young people and stay committed to advocating on their behalf. He also stressed on the importance of remaining committed and working collectively to address social challenges.
“As young Honorables of the Seychelles National Youth Assembly, you are all role models for society. Remain focused on collectively working together as agents of change in your communities, and by adopting key values of respect and tolerance in all that you do,” said President Faure.
The President was able to exchange ideas with the SNYA members and discuss their ongoing work. Topics raised included raising awareness of the civic duty and rights of young people, improving education outcomes, productivity at the work place, and social ills.
In her introductory remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC), Ms Penny Belmont, highlighted the core mandate and objectives of SNYA and the opportunities at their disposal to make a difference in their respective communities.
“Members of SNYA, You must never forget that you represent your communities. Your role is to bring forth their views and opinions, which they have entrusted you with their vote. I urge you not to take the responsibility to lightly. Represent and actively listen to your peers and be role models. Practice self-evaluation, and have a drive to improve. Despite all the challenges that life might throw your way, stay positive and work hard to achieve your goals,” said Ms Belmont.
On behalf of all members, the Speaker of the Seychelles National Youth Assembly, Mr Marlon Esparon, expressed appreciation to the President for making the time to host them at State House and for his words of encouragement. “Mr President, with your valuable and continuous support we hope to improve the programme further. We have already started setting the bar for the next cohort. It has been an honour to meet you to discuss our concerns, and also show our appreciation. I am sure I speak for all of my colleagues when I say that this visit was a success for us. I am confident in saying that the visit today and words of encouragement from you will surely motivate our project and future endeavors,” said Mr Esparon.
The 16th Cohort comprises of 43 members representing different institutions and communities.
Since its formation in 2003, the programme has successfully moulded over 500 young leaders, many of whom have made it as far as the National Assembly of Seychelles and other leadership positions.