By Sunny Esparon
Africa-Press – Seychelles. The Ministry of Education held its first-ever roving exhibition yesterday to celebrate the achievements in Seychelles’ education thus far.
The event, under the theme ‘Transforming the National Education Landscape’, was held at the ministry’s premises in Mont Fleuri, and it formed part of activities for International Education Day on January 24.
The exhibition will make several other stops in various school zones across the country. While there, each school will be asked to contribute towards the exhibition, by providing three more items they believe represent their major achievements.
The roving exhibition will also stop at two significant groups of institutions; a stop at private schools and another within the tertiary education sector.
The ministry said the exhibition serves as a vivid testament to the significant strides made in the past three years, highlighting innovative teaching methodologies, technological integrations, and the evolution of learning environment.
In his address, education minister, Dr Justin Valentin, noted the exhibition showcases a ministry that was constantly on the move and undergoing a transformational metamorphosis.
“Among all the other ministries, we have an ecosystem that is much bigger and diverse. When the Ministry of Education touches its members, it has to do so, positively,” said Minister Valentin.
Furthermore, he said the ministry needs to remain aware and vigilant about the future. “We need to look for our own model that is realistic and relevant for our small country.”
Yesterday’s ceremony also recognised long-serving staff of the ministry. This year’s theme encapsulates the essence of the central role that educators play in shaping the minds and hearts of a society.
Those who were recognised for 40 years or more of continuous service were Magdalena Eulentin with 41 years, Maryline Malcouzane (41), Sydna Antat (42), Maryvonne Barra (43), Linda Languilla (44), Estella Bau (45) and Alain Belle (45).
Five retired educators also received a special award and appreciative token. They were Zita-Bella Labiche, Jeffrey Lagrenade, Morine Max and Kevil Telemaque.
When speaking to the media after the event, Ms Max shared she entered the field at the age of 18 as an assistant. She then proceeded to join a training college and that is when she started her journey as a teacher and graduated in 1980.
In 1982, she became a teacher-in-charge and in 1999, she went for a training course in Bulgaria. “After that, I came back in Seychelles and worked as a teacher-in-charge for various schools,” she shared.
She then proceeded to work within the Ministry of Education for seven to eight years and that is how her journey ended, as a senior education officer. “I believe I have done a great job. There were ups and downs; no job is that easy but I am glad I did not move anywhere else. I completed all my years in the Ministry of Education. Great retirement.” She retired in December 2022.
During the ceremony, various entertainment such as poetry, gospel singing and more where showcased to a huge applause. There was also a moment of reflection.
In attendance were President Wavel Ramkalawan, ministers, members of the National Assembly, other dignitaries, the diplomatic corps, head teachers and teachers.
The accompanying photos show some highlights of the ceremony.
Photos by Joena Meme
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