The President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan received a group of long-serving school librarians at State House this morning. They are Ms. Geraine Antat, Ms. Christina Dogley, Ms. Marie-Ange Moustache, Ms. Mary Antat and Ms. Marie-Annette Lawen.

Among the five librarians, three are still in service, whilst two have retired. Ms. Geraine Antat has clocked 50 years of service, while Ms. Christina Dogley and Ms. Marie-Ange Moustache have served for 41 years in service. The retirees are Ms. Mary Antat and Ms. Marie-Annette Lawen who have served for 40 and 39 years of service. 

In recognition of their long years of service, the President formally expressed his appreciation to them for their years of hard work and dedication. He commended them for remaining loyal and committed to their profession though they faced many challenges.

"It is an honour to receive you all here today. On behalf of the Government I want to express our gratitude for the long years you have dedicated to your career as a librarian. As teachers, you equally play a pivotal role in the life of students, whereby you create a conducive environment for the students to learn, providing academic knowledge to students through well-kept books and empowering them to become critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers, and ethical users of information. Congratulations and thank you for your devotion,” said the President.

The five librarians shared with the President memories of their past work experiences and what they have been able to achieve. They also shared their views pertaining to the scheme of service for librarians as well as working conditions.

Absent with apologies this morning was Mrs. Edwige Joubert who has served as a librarian for 43 years.