The President of the Republic, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan attended the inauguration ceremony of the fifth Vice-Chancellor of the University of Seychelles (UniSey); Miss Joëlle Perreau, that took place at the UniSey Auditorium, Anse Royale campus, this morning.

In his remarks, the President Ramkalawan congratulated her and hailed her abilities to lead the Unisey.  The President recalled his meeting with Vice-Chancellor Perreau in February and reiterate his support in the transformation of the Unisey in becoming the national university of Seychelles as well as to their other future plans.

“The months ahead will surely be interesting and I can assure you Vice-chancellor and all members of the staff of the university that you may count on my support and that of the government to ensure that this transformation takes place. I have no doubt that you will make us proud, that you will guide our youths and the society as a whole. We are all going through a phase of challenges due to the COVID-19, but I am sure that the university and all of us will surmount it,” said the President.

As for the Vice-chancellor, Miss Perreau pledged to do her best, “I know this post comes with extraordinary responsibilities.  I understand the importance of it, and I am ready to dedicate all the time and effort necessary towards the position.  I acknowledge, with humility, the trust that has been vested in me by the UniSey Council, to take up such an important role, and I pledge that I will do all in my capacity to serve, as best as possible, at the expected level”

The ceremony was highlighted by the presentation of Gown and Mace to the Vice-Chancellor by the chairperson of the UniSey Council; Professor Dennis Hardy. There was also the reflection by Father Collin Underwood, Introduction of the Vice-Chancellor by the chairperson of the Council and pledges from Unisey representatives of the Executive, Support staff, Academic staff, Student’ representatives and Alumni.

Also present at the ceremony was attended by the Minister of Education, Dr Justin Valentin, the French Ambassador to the Republic of Seychelles, Mr.  Dominique Mas, Secretary of State for Health, Ambassador Marie-Pierre Lloyd, the mother of Vice-chancellor, Mrs Michol Perreau among other distinguished guests.