Africa-Press – Mauritius. The remarkable achievement of a cohort of twenty-four laureates who were awarded Additional Scholarships on the basis of Merit and Social Criteria for excelling in the Cambridge Higher School Certificate (HSC) Examinations 2024, was celebrated today during a reception at the State House in Réduit.
The President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Dharam Gokhool; the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam; the Vice-President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Robert Hungley; and the Minister of Education and Human Resource, Dr Mahend Gungapersad, were among the distinguished guests present on the occasion.
In his address, President Gokhool commended the academic excellence, perseverance and determination demonstrated by the laureates, who distinguished themselves through their achievements despite diverse socio-economic backgrounds. He exhorted the youth to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits and personal development, and uphold values such as compassion, community wellbeing, and social cohesion.
Speaking on the benefits of free education and free public transport policy, he indicated that the additional scholarship scheme based on merit and social criteria was introduced in 2013, in the same spirit to promote equity and inclusion. These initiatives, stated the President, demonstrate that ability coupled with opportunity, can thrive and make meaningful contributions to the development of a country.
For his part, the Prime Minister emphasised that education lies at the heart of socio-economic prosperity and the Nation’s long-term development while recalling the landmark introduction of free education by Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam in 1977, which laid the foundation for an inclusive education system. He also highlighted the Equal Opportunities Act as a significant measure to ensure fairness, equity, and access to education for all, irrespective of social background.
Referring to the Government Programme 2025-2029 which places the youth at the centre of national development, Dr Ramgoolam reaffirmed that young people are the driving force of the Nation’s future. He thus called upon them to contribute actively to the transformation of Mauritius into a resilient, inclusive and prosperous country.
In the same vein, Minister Gungapersad reiterated Government’s engagement to supporting families and empowering students with merit to achieve meaningful academic and professional milestones. He urged the laureates to fully benefit from the scholarship scheme and to place their skills and competencies at the service of the Nation.
