The President of the Republic, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan received the former Principal of Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA) Mr Flavien Joubert at State House yesterday morning. Mr Joubert is retiring after working in both, the public and private sector for 42 years.

President Ramkalawan congratulated Mr Joubert on his accomplishments and expressed his appreciation for the extraordinary contribution he has made to the field of tourism and training. The President described him as “one of the Seychellois pioneers of the industry who has made significant contributions to tourism and the country throughout his professional journey”.

The meeting was also an opportunity for Mr Joubert to share his experiences with the Head of State as well as various concerns due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, currently affecting the tourism industry worldwide. Mr Joubert discussed lengthily on the importance of a strategic training and succession plan for Seychellois professionals in the tourism industry. He also discussed the possibility for the tourism industry engaging in a partnership with STA, to encourage the transfer of industry knowledge particularly for lecturers to obtain the professional attributes required in order train students according to the new normal in tourism.

The President called on Mr Joubert to continue lending a hand to impart his knowledge and experience for the benefit of the aspiring tourism students and the country.

Although retired, Mr Joubert has numerous other projects at hand, among which as a member of the Indian Ocean Tourism Board an organisation based in Oman where he is assisting with the training of youths aspiring to join the tourism industry. In addition, he is partnering with a foreign investor for the potential launching of a private school. Mr Joubert is also working on 3 new upcoming books for publication.

During the meeting Mr Joubert presented the President with a copy of the four books he has published.