Study gauges carrying capacity of Cerf Island

Study gauges carrying capacity of Cerf Island - 31.05.2012 The ability of Cerf Island to carry sustainable development has been scrutinised in a recent study done by local consultants. This is the first time that such a comprehensive carrying capacity assessment is conducted on any of the islands in Seychelles, especially Cerf, which is located in a marine park environment. A carrying capacity study is a tool to guarantee that overall development in a specific area or in this particular case, on an island, is kept at a sustainable level. The ecosystem of the island was scrutinised in relation to its ability to withstand all impacts such as physical, ecological, social and economical, of additional land development activities for residential and tourism purposes. Two consultants – Marquise David and Iris Richter – led the study and presented their findings in a workshop held on Tuesday at the Seychelles Trading Company’s conference room. The one-day workshop was a collaboration of the United Nations Development programme’s Global Environment Fund, Ministry of Land Use and Housing, the Seychelles Tourism Board, Planning Authority, and department of environment. Present was the Minister for Land Use and Housing Christian Lionnet, who officially opened the workshop, and other high-ranking government officials and a number of guests from various sectors. Addressing the guests, Minister Lionnet said the government places strong emphasis on the promotion of sustainable development and therefore insists on the elaboration of such carrying capacity studies. “Studying the carrying capacity of our main Islands starting with Cerf Island as a pilot project will serve to provide us with practical experiences, and allow the testing of the methodology on a relatively small island,” he said. “Cerf Island is a good test case, given that development on the island has increased rapidly over the past years and tourism and residential use exist side by side,” he said. Mrs David – tourism and economic consultant – presented her findings on the island’s tourism and economy capacity, while Mrs Richter – environment and land use consultant – spoke about her findings on Cerf’s environmental, physical and social carrying capacity. Discussions were then held on all aspects of economic and tourism development, basic infrastructure and utilities, topography and land use, environment protection and bio-diversity, socio-cultural aspects and issues related to the marine park environment. Minister Lionnet said La Digue is the next island to have a carrying capacity study done, then Praslin and eventually Mahe.

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Exhibitions, lights and rock shows to mark Queen's diamond jubilee

Exhibitions, lights and rock shows to mark Queen's diamond jubilee - 31.05.2012 

To celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond jubilee – her 60th year of reign – the Seychelles Tourism Board and the British high commission in Victoria are organising a series of activities.

These will include exhibitions, lights and rock shows, special adviser for culture Raymonde Onezime said yesterday in an interview at the National Library.

Also present at the interview were the deputy British high commissioner Natalie Gowers and principal secretary for culture Benjamine Rose.

The Central Weekend to mark the jubilee will take place from Saturday June 2 to Tuesday June 5 and will include celebrations throughout the UK, the Commonwealth and around the world.

Mrs Onezime said on the local front, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, together with the British high commission, will host an exhibition on Monday June 4 from 11am at the Supreme Court.

“This is to mark the Queen’s diamond jubilee and the 40th anniversary of her visit to Seychelles,” said Mrs Onezime, adding the venue is perfect as anybody can have access to the exhibition.

This will be followed by an official diamond jubilee beacon lighting on Beau Vallon beach at 9am after which a rock concert at Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay will take centre stage.

The concert will be led by upcoming rock singer Nikki Murray – who has accompanied the likes of Leona Lewis, James Blunt and Cheryl Cole -- and The Sneer, a UK rock band.

Mrs Onezime said dinner package tickets will be available at R600 while tickets for the show – which will also include entrance to Tequila Boom later on – will be going for R150.

Tickets are available at the department of culture offices at the National Library as well as at the Tequila Boom and La Faya Bar.

For more information the public can call 2722885 or 2529874.

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Bazaar brings vital info to Perseverance residents

Bazaar brings vital info to Perseverance residents - 31.05.2012 A bazaar was held at the Perseverance village at the weekend aimed at bringing vital information to residents. The activity, held on Saturday afternoon, was a joint effort by Perseverance I and II together with the Drugs and Alcohol Council (Dac) to bring members of the community together as well as educate and promote different services local organisations had to offer. Among different displays at the bazaar were information booths ranging from reproductive health to information on housing as well as drug use and prevention. Also available on the day were a series of activities including talks and HIV testing. This was followed by a musical show by local youths later that night. Margaret Ernesta, a social worker present at the event, said the activity is a way to bring critical information to people’s doorsteps and to encourage members of the community to learn about the different services on offer to them. Organisations that had set up their information booths included the Fire and Rescue services, Youth Health Centre, Seychelles Maritime Safety Administration, the local police, the Baha’i faith and the department of community development, to name a few.

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Tanzania intensifies security in spice island of Zanzibar and other tourist spots

Tanzania’s Deputy Tourism Minister Mr. Lazaro Nyalandu

BY APOLINARI TAIRO, ETN TANZANIA | MAY 30, 2012

(eTN) - Reacting to recent incidents in which four tourists were mugged in the Tanzanian capital city of Dar es Salaam and the political stalemate in the Indian Ocean tourist Island of Zanzibar, Tanzania has beefed up security in key tourist spots.

Two separate incidents were observed in Tanzania recently in which four tourists were mugged of several items when walking on different streets in Tanzania’s capital city, while in Zanzibar, a group of vagabond youths torched down churches and threatened to burn beer groceries and bars where tourists take their time to drink.

In reaction to these incidents, Tanzania government, through the Tourism Ministry had intensified security in key tourist spots including hotels in both the mainland and the tourist island of Zanzibar.

Tanzania’s Deputy Tourism Minister Mr. Lazaro Nyalandu said the two incidents had shocked the government as were his ministry and other tourist stakeholders, taking into account that Tanzania had remained a peaceful tourist destination for years, without such ugly incidents targeting tourists.

“We are sorry that such ugly incidents happened here, as we cherish our peaceful environment to the tourists visiting Tanzania, but we assure visitors in Dar es Salaam of safe passage and [a] very comfortable stay,” he told eTN Wednesday.

“The government of Tanzania reiterates its commitment in assuring tourists visiting Tanzania of their security, while legal measures have been taken to those found taking part in causing recent chaos in Zanzibar,” Mr. Nyalandu said.

He admitted that four tourists were robbed while walking along streets in the capital of Dar es Salaam. Tanzania hotel stakeholders wrote a letter to the government of Tanzania asking for security support near key tourist hotels.

It was reported that tourists whose nationalities were not immediately known were mugged while strolling on roads near Southern Sun Hotel in Dar es Salaam’s central business district, while others were robbed outside Sea Cliff Hotel, about seven kilometers from the city center.

Mr. Nyalandu said police patrols have been introduced in all areas where tourists stroll, as are the Indian Ocean beaches, adding that Tanzania remains a safe destination to pay a visit.

In Zanzibar, tourists have been reported safe despite recent political unrest , during which several Christian churches were torched down by an anti-union of Tanzania radicals.

There have been a few demonstrations resulting in violence and destruction in and around Stone Town and Amani Stadium on the island of Zanzibar.

Tires have been burned in the streets, and there has been some violence and destruction of property, including two churches. Violence has not been targeted towards tourists.

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued an advisory statement, cautioning British tourists visiting Zanzibar to be cautious in the places hit by violence, telling them to keep away. About 70,000 Britons visit Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar every year, making UK the leading source of tourists visiting this African destination each year.

Hundreds of supporters of a separatist Islamist group set fire to two churches and clashed with police during protests in Zanzibar last weekend against the arrest of senior members of the Awakening movement, police said.

Police accused the Awakening group of ordering its supporters on to the streets to protest the union of Tanzania made up in 1964 and which made Zanzibar part of Tanzania.

Sources from Zanzibar’s tourist beaches of Nungwi, Kizimkazi, and the historical site of Stone Town told eTN that tourists and other foreign visitors to the semi-autonomous island were not targeted.

Tourism is currently the leading source of revenue to Zanzibar's economy, injecting 27 percent to the isle’s gross domestic product (GDP), while generating 72 percent of the isle’s foreign currency, while providing key jobs in its sprawling hotels and other tourist establishments there.

Pristine sand beaches, deep water diving, unique and rich multi-racial cultures, and historical sites, all make Zanzibar the leading tourist hot-spot in the East African Indian Ocean zone. About 200,000 tourists visited the island last year.

The island has seen a remarkable growth in tourism, with optimism to attract more holidaymakers there. Zanzibar is famous for its beaches, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and dolphin watching, targeting to attract high-class tourists to compete with other Indian Ocean island destinations, such as Seychelles, Mauritius, La Reunion, and Maldives.

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Metrology for safety highlighted

Metrology for safety highlighted - 30.05.2012

The importance of accurate measurements has been put into focus as Seychelles joined the rest of the world in celebrating Metrology Day.

A ceremony to mark the day was held last Friday at the Seychelles Bureau of Standards (SBS) Providence headquarters in the presence of the Minister for Natural Resources and Industry Peter Sinon, among other guests.

This year’s theme is Metrology for Safety and highlights the importance of metrology in our lives.
Metrology is the science of measurement and is not to be confused with meteorology, which is the science that deals with the atmosphere and weather.
For example, isn’t it important that you get an exact dose of a medicine when you are sick?
You pay for water that you use based on a meter reading and you go to a petrol station to fill up your vehicle, and you figure out whether you are getting an exact litre of petrol for the price you paid.
What if the bar code reader at the grocery store incorrectly tells the price of an item you want to buy? Or what if you import parts from one country, only to find out they do not fit the mating parts of your vehicle, which is from another country?
Consider an athlete breaking a record at a sporting event by milliseconds and not getting recognition!
All these scenarios involve metrology, without which life would be very difficult indeed!
At Friday’s event Minister Sinon said this year’s theme reflects the importance of getting reliable measurement results to ensure we are safe whether at work, rest or play.
“In Seychelles, the national metrology lab and the national legal metrology service -- both based at SBS -- strive to provide the local communities they serve with expert metrological knowledge that allows our country to function reliably in this modern, high-tech world,” he said.
The SBS announced that they recently got a new equipment called a hydrostatic jacket, used to test dive cylinders and ensure that no sub-standard dive cylinders are being used for commercial or personal purposes.

A number of staff who followed a training course to be able to use this equipment to its full potential were presented with certificates by Minister Sinon at Friday’s ceremony.
The SBS chief executive Amy Quatre said they will continue to invest in new equipment and keep abreast of new development in this international metrology community.

An exhibition was also hosted to showcase the roles of the bureau as well as demonstrations showing the various activities in metrology that the SBS carries out.

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Health experts boost knowledge on disease surveillance and response

Health experts boost knowledge on disease surveillance and response - 30.05.2012

Professionals from the health sector are refreshing and updating their knowledge on disease surveillance and response through a series of training workshops.

Health officials such as nurses, doctors, laboratory technicians, statisticians and public health officers are all due to be trained in the Seychelles Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (ISDR).
They will then be proficient in disease surveillance and data collection and interpretation of information, among other skills.
The launch of the first training of this kind was held on Monday morning at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay hotel, and is a collaboration of the Ministry of Health, World Health
Organisation, and the Indian Ocean Commission.


Monday’s session, which was for doctors, nurses and nurse managers, was officially launched by the Minister for Health, Mitcy Larue.
“Over the years, we have seen that Seychelles has not been spared by epidemics or pandemics, such as Chikungunya in 2007 and AH1N1 in 2009 to mention a few,” she said.
“We should always be vigilant to detect any possible communicable diseases, threats and swiftly respond in order to minimise the impact of such calamities through effective disease surveillance activities.”
She added that recently, polio has been declared a global emergency after an explosive outbreak in countries previously free of the disease.
“Our geographical isolation and smallness do not mean that we are safe from these threats,” she said.
“These IDSR training will equip you with all the know-how to identify and diagnose priority disease, report in a timely manner, perform outbreak investigations, come up with effective actions and recommendations in order to safeguard the public health of our nation.”
Dr Jastin Bibi appealed to the public not to hesitate to report any suspicious or odd illnesses in districts and communities to the Ministry of Health, which could possibly develop into an epidemic. This includes people suffering from symptoms and allergies, especially if it is being spread.
“We will do the appropriate investigation to differentiate harmless illnesses from potentially serious threats, take appropriate actions, and if need be forward investigations to other departments, such as the department of environment,” he said.
The ministry aims to have all relevant staff trained in the adapted Seychelles ISDR guidelines by mid-June this year.

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Metrology for safety highlighted

Metrology for safety highlighted - 30.05.2012

The importance of accurate measurements has been put into focus as Seychelles joined the rest of the world in celebrating Metrology Day.

A ceremony to mark the day was held last Friday at the Seychelles Bureau of Standards (SBS) Providence headquarters in the presence of the Minister for Natural Resources and Industry Peter Sinon, among other guests.

This year’s theme is Metrology for Safety and highlights the importance of metrology in our lives.
Metrology is the science of measurement and is not to be confused with meteorology, which is the science that deals with the atmosphere and weather.
For example, isn’t it important that you get an exact dose of a medicine when you are sick?
You pay for water that you use based on a meter reading and you go to a petrol station to fill up your vehicle, and you figure out whether you are getting an exact litre of petrol for the price you paid.
What if the bar code reader at the grocery store incorrectly tells the price of an item you want to buy? Or what if you import parts from one country, only to find out they do not fit the mating parts of your vehicle, which is from another country?
Consider an athlete breaking a record at a sporting event by milliseconds and not getting recognition!
All these scenarios involve metrology, without which life would be very difficult indeed!
At Friday’s event Minister Sinon said this year’s theme reflects the importance of getting reliable measurement results to ensure we are safe whether at work, rest or play.
“In Seychelles, the national metrology lab and the national legal metrology service -- both based at SBS -- strive to provide the local communities they serve with expert metrological knowledge that allows our country to function reliably in this modern, high-tech world,” he said.
The SBS announced that they recently got a new equipment called a hydrostatic jacket, used to test dive cylinders and ensure that no sub-standard dive cylinders are being used for commercial or personal purposes.

A number of staff who followed a training course to be able to use this equipment to its full potential were presented with certificates by Minister Sinon at Friday’s ceremony.
The SBS chief executive Amy Quatre said they will continue to invest in new equipment and keep abreast of new development in this international metrology community.

An exhibition was also hosted to showcase the roles of the bureau as well as demonstrations showing the various activities in metrology that the SBS carries out.

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Seychelles and Cuba: partners in sustainability

Seychelles and Cuba: partners in sustainability - 29.05.2012

Seychelles’ Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Paul Adam has held talks with his Cuban counterpart, Bruno Parrilla, in Havana, Cuba to discuss areas of cooperation and what he has described as an “energy revolution”.

Mr Adam, who was on an official visit to that Caribbean island last week, said that the necessity of reducing dependency on fuel and mitigating the effects of spiralling costs were central to the discussions held as the fundamental element to ensuring sustainable development for both nations. He added that plans were underway to facilitate collaborations and discussions between the Seychelles energy sector and their Cuban counterparts.
“The relationship between our countries is anchored in this ongoing quest for sustainability,” said the minister.
“Cuba and Seychelles have defied geography through our cooperation where despite being separated by oceans and continents, our two peoples have built a partnership based on a sincere belief that by investing in the health and education of our respective peoples, we are building a more sustainable world.”
The two ministers also discussed other areas of cooperation which includes education and health. Following the signing of a new health agreement during the visit of Vice-President Danny Faure to Cuba earlier this year, Minister Adam and his counterpart discussed practical ways in which to implement improvements such as increasing the number of Cuban experts deployed to Seychelles, and varying their fields of expertise.
In addition to the traditional areas of cooperation they also discussed new engagements in agriculture, climate change, disaster management and trade.

During his visit, Minister Adam was also invited to lay a commemorative wreath at the memorial of Jose Marti, who led the war of independence of Cuba from Spain in the 19th century.
Minister Adam, who left Cuba last Friday, also held talks with various other high level government officials.

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Following her appointment two months ago to lead the Seychelles International Business Authority, the young and dynamic Wendy Pierre has among her priorities to build the capacity of her members of staff and empower them to better deliver in their different positions.

Following her appointment two months ago to lead the Seychelles International Business Authority, the young and dynamic Wendy Pierre has among her priorities to build the capacity of her members of staff and empower them to better deliver in their different positions.

Having spent some nine years with Siba before being appointed in the new position, Wendy feels she has the necessary experience to shoulder the responsibilities the job entails.

Meeting her recently in her office at the Siba headquarters on Bois de Rose Avenue, the 33-year-old was very enthusiastic when she talked about her job and her plans for the future.
She said she is prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead and that she is thankful the experience gained working for many years in the financial services sector has stood her in good stead.
Before being appointed in the new position she was a manager dealing with the legal and compliance aspects of the financial services sector of the Siba.
“My new position will require that I will also have to take care of business promotion which is a very important responsibility of the Siba”, Wendy pointed out.
“But I know the sector,” she said, adding that support of Siba’s various partners, colleagues with whom she has worked for many years and the collective effort of members of her team is essential to help her succeed in her mission to propel the Siba to greater heights.
“Our partners’ opinions and contributions are very important and I make it a must to meet and discuss issues with them,” she added.
“They are all ready to work with whoever is ready to bring further development in the financial service sector,” she pointed out.
“I’ve always maintained a good and healthy relationship with everybody and therefore I feel comfortable to address colleagues and all members of staff and seek their opinion and advice on any issue,” she said.
“I am encouraged by all the positive feedback and words of encouragement received so far,” she added.
Wendy said there has been several positive contributions as well which together with her team she is working on.
Set up in 1995, the Siba is essentially a one-stop shop that covers both licensing and regulation of the primary offshore business activities. It is the Registrar for international business companies, international trusts, among others. The Siba also regulates International Free Trade Zone activities in Seychelles.
Education and training
Wendy joined the Siba in 2003 soon after completing her university studies in law. Joining Siba she concentrated and specialised in the aspect of compliance which is very important and essential in the offshore business sector.
“In this kind of business there are lots of risks which can potentially arise and compliance consists of  various safeguards which when put in place ensure the country is not exposed to those potential dangers like financial crimes,” she said.
“And when I studied compliance I came to know of the various structures which could help protect our country from those risks,” Wendy explained.
Three years ago she completed her studies for a diploma in compliance and now she is a member of the International Compliance Association which is affiliated to the University of Manchester.
The members share good practices and experiences for the benefit of the financial sector.
Wendy also followed several short-term training relating to other areas of the offshore sector.
At present she is studying for her masters in banking and finance which she is expected to complete next year.
“This is another challenge for me to overcome. I have to manage work, studies and other aspects of my life. But I can say that I have found the balance,” she explained.
She pointed out that the good thing about the Siba is the opportunity it gives its staff to study and work at the same time and this, apart from allowing staff members to find the right balance, it also gives them the chance to exercise self discipline.
“Siba strongly believes in training and more training for its staff, because without training members of staff would lack the skills and efficiency required to handle the increasing demands of the sector,” she said.
Wendy recalled when she joined the Siba in 2003 she worked for two years with a private business within the offshore sector to gain experience.
“I am grateful for the exposure and experience obtained while working with the private business.
It has helped to increase my competence and provided me with additional skills which are essential when handling different types of clients,” added Wendy.
She explained that her work as a compliance manager has also taken her overseas to attend various international conferences, meetings and seminars where she took part in discussions with international organisations and other bodies involve in the business.
Facing the challenges
But how does Wendy handle all the challenges of her new job?
She says a lot of development is taking place in the financial services industry and one has to be prepared for that.
She gave as example the fact that small island states like Seychelles are at present under a lot of focus for various reasons and one of them is the amount of interest in our financial services sector.
“People everywhere want to know what we have to offer,” said Wendy.
Another reason is that international organisations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) are concentrating to ensure small countries like Seychelles have in place the necessary framework which meet international standards when operating an offshore business sector.
Wendy pointed out that she is happy the Siba has in place the necessary structures and is forging ahead with its plans to modernise its operations.
“Siba is not only encouraging people to come and do business here but it also ensures it has in place the right structures for doing good quality business according to international best practices,” Wendy stressed.
With regard to the financial crisis affecting several parts of the world namely Europe, Wendy said its impact on the business sector locally is unavoidable but she believes Seychelles can withstand that due to the fact that it also has strong interests in other regions like Asia and Africa which are still stable.
“These are areas with lots of potentials which the Siba is planning to explore to ensure continued prosperity in the business sector,” added Wendy.
Several Bills related to the financial sector which the National Assembly approved at the end of last year are further proof of Siba’s commitment to continue to upgrade its operations to meet international standards. This follows a series of recommendations identified by the OECD which included making certain amendments to the various laws which govern the Siba’s operations.
“The Siba is very proud of its effort to meet international standards and be seen as one of these financial destinations which do good business and have the right framework in place,” Wendy pointed out.
She expresses her satisfaction that the Siba has managed to carry out those recommendations and pointed out that towards the end of May it will have the opportunity to defend the report relating to the work carried out in line with its effort to put in place those recommendations.
“Hopefully everything will meet the required standard and we could continue our work and move forward,” Wendy noted.
She further stressed that the important thing is for the Siba to maintain its position on the OECD white list.
Plans for the future
Wendy is also very much encouraged by the amount of interest shown in the services and products offered by the Siba which is aiming for more value added services.
“The Siba aims to work to ensure that once clients register their companies they also use services provided here and not those outside Seychelles,” Wendy said.
Wendy believes that in order to convince clients to use services provided here, more work has to be done to improve those services.
“The laws and framework are already in place and we plan to intensify building the capacity of our people to meet the demands of clients and retain in the country as much benefits from providing such services,” she said.
“Having the right people on the ground to provide the standard of services required by clients is very important and remains among some of the Siba’s greatest challenges for the coming years,” noted Wendy.
“But I am positive that with the support of our partners and staff commitment to the objectives of the Siba, we can go very far,” she mused.
In the coming years, Wendy said, building the capacity of her staff and empower them to move the authority further will be among her priorities.
“The effective and smooth running of the Siba can only be achieved through having efficient and capable managers,” said Wendy.  
Family life and past time
The mother of an energetic seven-year-old son, Wendy said she derives her strength from the support of her family first and foremost.
“Family life is very important for me and I believe a strong and stable family life is what gives me strength and the most joy in life and at work,” Wendy reflected.
She said she is always attentive to advice and criticisms.
“I am young and I still have a lot to learn. I welcome criticisms from everyone because I believe this helps you grow and become stronger.”
Wendy said she always looks forward for some fitness exercises with her son on the fitness trail, quiet and cosy evenings with her small family, weekend reunion with both her family and those of her husband’s.
She believes this is the time to replenish yourself, relax and discuss various matters, share and gain from others around you over some homemade dishes.
Wendy, who is not good at cooking, enjoys listening to the radio and watching TV mostly to keep abreast of current events. She also does not miss the opportunity to watch a good movie every now and then.
Reading she does all the time and it is mostly material related to her job.
By Marie-Anne Lepathy

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VP Faure lauds teamwork behind fibre-optic cable link - 29.05.2012 Vice-President Danny Faure has thanked all those who have been behind the installation of the 2,000 kilometre fibre-optic cable which arrived at Beau Vallon from Tanzania on Sunday. Mr Faure – who is also the Minister for Information, Technology and Communication – commended their team spirit at the Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove hotel during a reception hosted on Sunday evening to commemorate the arrival. Referring to it as a vision realised, he said the cable is a new key piece of national infrastructure and commended the teamwork that prevailed during the planning for, financing and laying of the cable. Mr Faure – who was himself earlier commended for his role by President James Michel – said the milestone event showed our resolve, resilience and determination as a population, calling the feat yet another victory for Seychelles. “This cable represents a key piece of national infrastructure that will support our development as a country. This was why a few years ago, we started off with a vision. “A vision to start a public private partnership that would undertake the responsibility for the laying of a submarine fibre-optic cable between East Africa and Seychelles. “I am very proud to say that today this vision has become a reality. The cable is here and very soon people will start enjoying the benefits,” he said. Projects of that magnitude do not happen without a team of dedicated individuals driving them, said Mr Faure. He commended the Seychelles Cable System company (SCS) chairman Benjamin Choppy, who is also the principal secretary for Information, Technology and Communication as well as the chief executive of Cable and Wireless Charles Hammond and the chief executive of Airtel Tsirasy Randriamampiowana, noting their companies’ staff and previous heads played a big role. “As government, we are counting on the two of you (Messrs Hammond and Randriamampiowana) and the other services providers, to ensure that the vision of increased internet penetration for our households is realised.” He also commended Alcatel-Lucent who built the cable, and technical advisors AXIOM who did the feasibility study. “Our appreciation also goes to Zantel, the telecommunication service provider in Tanzania, selected as the landing party cable host to connect us to the network of global infrastructure, and financiers African Development Bank as well as the European Investment Bank.” He said the banks chose to finance a large project for the country shortly after we took bold decisions to transform the Seychelles economy. “We would like to thank them for their faith in us,” he said, noting the EIB were even generous enough to give a grant of €4 million to the project. Mr Faure said the government will continue to honour its commitment to its people, to ensure wider communication access and greater affordability in service delivery, as we step into the future and stay online with the cable. Mr Choppy gave Mr Faure and the honorary consul to Tanzania Maryvonne Pool a sample of the cable as souvenirs.

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Seychelles set to consolidate friendly ties with South Africa

Seychelles set to consolidate friendly ties with South Africa - 29.05.2012

Seychelles’ stand at the Indaba tourism trade fair in South Africa was earmarked for a visit by South Africa’s deputy tourism minister Tokozile Xasa on the opening day of Africa’s biggest tourism event.

Minister Xasa was greeted at the Seychelles stand by Alain St Ange, the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture.

Deputy Minister Xasa was accompanied by the chairman of South Africa Tourism and other high level officials. His visit at the Seychelles stand was an opportunity for Minister St Ange to remind the South African dignitaries of the exceptional beauty of the tropical islands of Seychelles, now fast becoming the new destination for South African holidaymakers.
Minister St Ange also took the opportunity to tell Minister Xasa and her delegation that Air Seychelles has now confirmed to increase its weekly service to Johannesburg to four flights as from January 2013.
“Seychelles has always been the dream holiday tropical islands for South Africans,” Minister St Ange told the press in South Africa.
Minister St Ange also met South African Tourism Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk and they discussed cooperation between our two countries and the forthcoming Routes Africa conference due to be held in Seychelles in July.

Minister Van Schalkwyk is one of the ministers from Africa who have been invited to address Routes Africa alongside Seychelles Minister for Home Affairs & Transport Joel Morgan and Zimbabwe’s Minister for Tourism.
Didier Robert, président of La Région Réunion, and the chief executive of Ethiopian Airlines among other industry leaders and professionals will also address the conference.
South African TV and written press are also expected to travel to Seychelles to cover Routes Africa 2012 and the presentation by Minister Van Schalkwyk.
“The visit by the South African minister to Seychelles will be an opportunity to consolidate the friendly ties that exist between Seychelles and South Africa. This will be the first visit by Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk to Seychelles and we are convinced he will leave our shores as an ambassador for our islands,” Minister St Ange told the press in Durban, South Africa.

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Zimbabwe seeks closer tourism ties with Seychelles

Zimbabwe seeks closer tourism ties with Seychelles - 29.05.2012

Zimbabwe would like Seychelles to share with the southern African country some of the expertise in tourism our islands are famous for.

The country’s Foreign Affairs Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi said this at State House yesterday when he called on President James Michel as a special envoy of his President, Robert Mugabe.
“Seychelles is well known in the tourism sector, and that is an area we are not fully developed so we can benefit a lot from the skills and expertise developed in Seychelles,” he said, talking of a possible boost in education and training ties.
He told the media that he gave Mr Michel a message – “to which he was not privy” – from the Zimbabwean Head of State.
Mr Mumbengegwi was accompanied to State House by Seychelles Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Paul Adam, both of whom told the media they meet often at international forums and are due to meet at a summit in Rwanda on June 1.
“I took the opportunity of meeting President Michel to brief and update him on the latest developments in Zimbabwe,” said Mr Mumbengegwi.
“Generally the economy is improving but not as fast as it should because of the illegal sanctions that have been imposed on Zimbabwe by the western powers, so in the context of the Southern African Development Community we have always campaigned for the lifting of the sanctions and we hope Zimbabwe and SADC will step up the efforts to have the sanctions removed so that development can be speeded up.”
He described ties between his country and Seychelles as excellent.

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Football: Airtel Cup

Football: Airtel Cup - 28.05.2012 
St Roch grab late equaliser, Lightstars shock La Passe, Côte D’Or and Quincy win

St Roch came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw against Anse Reunion at Stad Linite on Saturday in the Airtel cup while bottom club Lightstars shocked La Passe. 

 Côte D’Or beat St Louis on Praslin and on Friday Quincy defeated St Francis.

St Roch draw against Anse Reunion

Anse Reunion were the much better side in the first half in this Pool B encounter and Norvil Gaspard gave his team the lead in the fourth minute to make it 1-0.

In the 17th minute, Anse Reunion should have doubled their advantage from Bernard Rose’s deep cross to Stenio Ernesta but the young striker’s header came off the post from close range with goalkeeper Julio Toulon well beaten.

In the 20th minute the La Digue side were again unlucky as Roderick Rose did well to elude his mark and his inch perfect cross fell to Gaspard who should have scored but his weak tap-in hit the foot of the post.

Anse Reunion were the dominant side with coach Juel Ah-Kong back with his former team after a short stint with bitter rivals La Passe.

Just past the half-hour mark, Yelvanny Rose beat the offside trap to bore on goal and he rounded goalkeeper Julio Toulon but amazingly flashed his shot across goal as he wasted a glorious chance.

St Roch’s only decent opportunity came in the 36th minute as Deven Belle glided into the penalty area and went down under Bernard Rose’s tackle.  But referee Jean-Claude Labrosse adjudged that the St Roch striker had dived and was booked for simulation.

Anse Reunion had chances to go further ahead and in the 38th minute; the impressive Malagasy Hassan Ali burst forward and his teasing cross fell to Stenio Ernesta who had the goal at his mercy but he headed wide from close range.

The second half was a different affair as St Roch tried to redress the balance and they showed more purpose while Anse Reunion tried to defend their lead.

In the 63rd minute, substitute Klaus Pragassen chased a long ball to square to Steven Telemaque.  Telemaque set up Nerick Athanase who shot narrowly wide from the penalty edge.

St Roch continued to pressure Anse Reunion but could not conjure a clean scoring opportunity and were almost punished on the stroke of full-time.

It all started from a glorious crossfield pass by Roderick Rose to Yelvanny Rose who was in acres of space.

Yelvanny Rose though took too long to adjust his shot and Malvin Pierre cleared the danger.
A minute later at the other end St Roch’s Malagasy defender Nestor Benahovy floated a long ball to Deven Belle who looked offside but was not signaled.  Belle’s attempted lob produced a great fingertip save by goalie Paul Ah-Kong to force a corner.

In the dying minutes though, St Roch grabbed a deserved equaliser from a free kick on the penalty edge.

Nestor Benahovy fired a strong shot which took a wicked deflection and wrong footed goalkeeper Paul Ah-Kong for a final 1-1 scoreline.

Quincy beat St Francis

Quincy returned to haunt St Francis with a 2-1 victory on Friday as the Airtel cup kicked off.
In the absence of coach Marc Mathiot, Bernard Dorasamy took over and St Francis should have gone ahead in the sixth minute from Stephane Esparon’s teasing cross to Evans Confiance but he headed wide with the goal at his mercy from close range.

In a swift counter Quincy’s Charles Clarisse almost lobbed goalkeeper Andrea Libanotis.

In the 15th minute Shariff Padayachy floated a free kick to Michel Joubert who headed wide.

Quincy had to make two substitutions as they brought on captain Georges Ravinia and minutes later had to replace striker Alex Dugasse who had suffered a cut above the eye.

It was a very physical match but Quincy, who had a depleted squad, still had the better chances and in the 44th minute, Archille Henriette shot wide from the penalty edge after Robin Joubert’s corner was cleared to him.

In injury time, St Francis had a half chance as Radley Monthy hassled for a bobbling ball but he shot narrowly wide.

In the second half, the match was more exciting and in the 56th minute, Esparon centred but goalie Trevor Bill spilled the shot to Radley Monthy, whose shot was well stopped by goalie Bill who redeemed himself.

On the hour mark, Quincy’s Charles Clarrise galloped forward to skip past Nicolas Atala but goalkeeper Libanotis raced out to clear the danger.

On a counter Radley Monthy burst forward to send an inch perfect cross to Ryan Antat but he failed to tap in from close range.

They were made to pay a minute later as Charles Clarisse pounced on a poor clearance and his dipping shot sailed over goalkeeper Libanotis to open the score at 1-0.

St Francis threatened to equalise in the 65th minute as Radley Monthy filtered a pass to Evans Confiance but goalie Bill was quick off his line to deny him.

In the 70th minute, Michel Joubert who looked suspiciously offside played a neat one-two with Robin Joubert to open St Francis’ defence but Michel Joubert shot wide when he should have scored.

In the 75th minute substitute Jerry Freminot, who again looked offside, raced through to round goalkeeper Libanotis and fire in an empty net for a 2-0 score.

St Francis had to react and in the 81st minute Radley Monthy fired a free kick which deflected off the wall and fell to Ryan Antat who made no mistake to cut the deficit to 1-2.

In the 85th minute, Antat should have leveled the score from Radley Monthy’s superb cross but he headed straight at goalie Bill from close range.

In injury time Quincy had two clear chances as Steven Domingue released Robin Joubert but he failed to lob goalie Libanotis.

Minutes later Jason Fred played a free kick to Michel Joubert who chest trapped but shot over as his team held on for another win over St Francis.

La Passe tumble against Lightstars

Lightstars registered their first win of the season against La Passe with a 2-1 victory on La Digue in a controversial match.

Bertrand Lablache gave the bottom club a 1-0 lead as La Passe had two goals disallowed by referee Emile Fred.

Footballer of the year Achille Henriette leveled matters for the La Digue side at 1-1 in the second half.

However Perry Nibourette saw his free kick deflect off defender Kenny Nibourette to make it 2-1 for Lightstars as they shocked La Passe.

Côte D’Or defeat St Louis Suns
Côte D’Or defeated St Louis Suns 2-0 at the Amitié Stadium with a brace from their Malagasy midfielder Jean Tigana.

Tigana scored from the penalty spot in the first half and added a second with a free kick in the second period for a 2-0 victory.

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ubmarine cable another pillar of New Seychelles, says President

ubmarine cable another pillar of New Seychelles, says President - 28.05.2012 The arrival yesterday of the fibre-optic cable is one of the many pillars that will raise the edifice of this New Seychelles, and provide the opportunities for its development.   President James Michel said this after the cable landed at Beau Vallon where he witnessed the historic event. “It is the way forward; the key to the future. A much enhanced link to the global village,” he said. “Its connection to our shores today heralds yet another transformation in our society. It will not only bring us broadband internet, but a wide selection of new opportunities for e-commerce, faster communication as well as business and technological innovation. It will provide new opportunities for growth, wealth creation and progress.” He said while we look forward to the future of this innovation with eagerness, we must remember that we have come a very long way, naming a number of developments in telecommunication, for example the first telegraph cable that was laid some 120 years ago between Zanzibar and Seychelles and Aden, and then later Colombo, with later wireless communication with London. “We have managed to come a long way since then when the cable capacity was only 15 words a minute,” he said. Mr Michel noted the first radio broadcasts started in the 1940s and the first telephone lines were introduced in 1953, and the first satellite connection in 1976. “Cellular telephony was introduced in 1995 followed by Internet services in 1996,” he said. “All of them have propelled us into societal change: in our day-to-day wellbeing, our education, our way of conducting business and, at the same time, they have removed our sense of isolation from the rest of the world. We may be living on islands in the Indian Ocean, a thousand miles away from the closest continent, but our information ‘connectivity’ has assured that we steadily become closer to our neighbours, closer to our far-flung relatives and friends, and just a ‘click’ away from every corner of the earth.” He said Seychelles is today globally recognised as one of the leading countries for information communication technology development, and this year won the United Nations Award for E-Government as the number 1 country in Africa. “This is a formidable achievement, and testimony to the determination of our public service IT professionals to excel in this field. It is also testimony to the success of the New Seychelles,” he said. “The Seychelles East Africa System project is another great ‘first’ for the New Seychelles, and a product of the hard work of our IT engineers and their international partners. We need to work hard to empower ourselves with the new IT tools that this broadband project offers. “We need to develop the technical expertise of our business and public services professionals, as well as training young people and encouraging them take up careers in the IT sector,” he said, congratulating and thanking Vice-President Danny Faure and others who have taken part in the project for their hard work and excellence in the delivery of the cable. “This is a striking example of successful public-private sector partnership, which is a model for sound economic development. We are also most grateful for the strong support of the European Investment Bank and the African Development Bank for this project,” he said. “In the coming weeks Cable and Wireless and Airtel will have the great challenge of delivering faster Internet services to our homes and work places. Naturally, we have great expectations from the internet service providers to deliver the new and improved services and affordable outreach as a result of this cable connection. I wish you every success in the development of these services for the benefit of the people of Seychelles,” he said, noting we have embarked on a new journey in information technology, offering opportunities we should seize with vigour and determination.

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MESSAGE ON THE OCCASION OF AFRICA DAY 2012

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

25th May 2012

MESSAGE ON THE OCCASION OF AFRICA DAY 2012

From the Indian Ocean, Today on 25^th May, Seychelles joins the rest of the world in celebrating Africa day.

Africa Day is an occasion, not only for us to celebrate, but also an opportunity to take pride in Africa and all its diversity- a continent which continues to export is values, culture, music to the rest of the world-thereby enriching it.

On this day, we therefore reflect on the promise of Africa.

Africa is now widely recognized as the continent of the future. Our opportunities are infinite and our potential boundless.

With an average growth rate of over five percent over the last five years, substantial reserves of natural and energy resources and a young vibrant population, Africa has great opportunities to transform itself into one of the leading economic regions of the world.

The theme of this year’s celebration ‘Boosting trade and intra-African trade’ is therefore timely and fitting as it is quite clear that over the last decade the global economy has gone though significant and unprecedented change. Our traditional trading relationships and patterns are changing. The impacts of these shifts on our individual member states is something we need to seriously consider and reflect upon in order to have a thorough appreciation of these developments on our economies. Boosting trade and intra-African trade is therefore an imperative. We have to take bold steps to boost trade within our countries.

The challenge for the rest of the world is to stand by Africa in managing a transformation to which it has freely pledged itself. It is clear that the prerequisites for and the foundations of this transformation are unquestionably peace and security, trade, education, science and culture. Many of the advances made by Africa in these sectors will form the basis of the Rio+20 Conference on Sustainable Development to be held in Brazil next month whereby defining an equitable green and blue economy for Africa will be crucial.

Africa has also made considerable gains in consolidating democracy. Supporting the African people's efforts to realize their right to choose their own leaders, ensuring that elections are a route to peace, not violence, finding durable solutions to the crisis in Somalia as we continue to combat the threat of piracy are imperative for our growth.

Africa must grasp the opportunity it has today to mould the future it deserves . Seychelles as the smallest african state will join to this cause and in the words of UN Secretary General on Africa day 2012 “as the World tries to forge a renewed Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, an agenda that will set the continent on the path to the future we all want: dynamic, equitable and sustainable growth that benefits all Africans”.

Happy Africa day.

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Sherlyn Furneau is Seychelles’ 2012 beauty queen

Sherlyn Furneau is Seychelles’ 2012 beauty queen - 28.05.2012 ● Shanice Hoareau 1st Princess, Natasha Robinson 2nd Princess Twenty-year-old Sherlyn Furneau was Saturday night crowned Seychelles’ 2012 beauty queen during the Miss Seychelles … Another World beauty pageant held at Le Meridien Barbarons Hotel. At the end of the colourful pageant, organised by the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB), Sherlyn promptly declared that as Seychelles’ ambassador, she intends to do her country proud. Sherlyn, who also won the Miss Personality title, enjoys swimming and jogging, believes all the contestants were beautiful and intelligent, but that maybe she had that little “extra something”, which swayed the panel’s decision. After parading in casual wear, swimwear and evening gown, Sherlyn, whose main sponsor was Lesperance Complex at Providence, said we must be positive in life. “We must not shy from whatever problems we may encounter, because the sun always shines in the end.” Sherlyn was crowned by First Lady Nathalie Michel before a packed audience, as Antoinette Dodin sang Kelly Clarkson’s A moment like this, a fitting song for the occasion. In addition to showcasing Seychelles at various tourism and trade fairs abroad, Sherlyn wins diamond jewelry from Jouel of Kenwyn House (which is also the sponsor of the crown); one week’s vacation at the St Regis Meridien in Mauritius, donated by the Meridien group; an air ticket to Italy, sponsored by Air Seychelles; a weekend for two at Desroches Island Lodge; a weekend at the Four Seasons Hotel; R15,000 from Sacos Insurance; a R3,000 package from Intelvision, an evening gown from “KanKan Seychelles”, and several other prizes. The first runner-up, 19-year-old Shanice Hoareau, who loves dancing and is presently studying at the Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA) for a career in tourism, was also the winner of the “People’s Choice” decided on support received from mobile phone text messages sent in via Cable & Wireless and Airtel.  She had brilliantly answered a question of publicity for Seychelles as an island destination, noting the diversity of our 100-odd islands, the multi-ethnicity and the unique Creole cuisine, among other attributes. She also wins diamond jewelry from Jouel of Kenwyn House, R10,000 from Sacos, as well as an air ticket to South Africa, sponsored by Air Seychelles, among various prizes. Another STA student, Natasha Robinson, among the youngest in the pageant at 18, was judged the second princess. She loves going to the beach and intends to pursue a degree in tourism management at the University of Seychelles. She was also deemed Miss Photogenic.  Responding to a question from the panel, she said that if she had only five minutes to live, she would spend that with her family, as she holds her parents as the most precious to her. She also wins jewelry from Jouel, vacation at the Acajou Hotel on Praslin and a trip to South Africa. Miss Bonjour, sponsored by the local perfume company, was won by Vanessa Adam, 21, who enjoys doing arts and crafts and will be graduating from her studies in teaching at the University of Seychelles. The best evening wear was, according to the panel, worn by tall Christina Fondamière, whose ultimate goal is to be a good wife and mother. Before the results were announced, the eleven contestants were each presented with a bouquet on behalf of the STB and other organisers by the Minister for Labour and Human Resource Development, Idith Alexander. Before the girls paraded, STB chief executive Elsia Grandcourt noted that the first beauty pageant in Seychelles was held in 1968. She said that the contestant represent Seychelles’ melting pot of cultures and the winner of the first pageant organised by STB will be the new face of Seychelles at various tourism fairs abroad. “Choosing a beauty queen for our islands is a daunting task, not only because there are so many competing beauties, but because the new Miss Seychelles will now play a prominent role in representing her country at both local and international events. In this, and other ways, we aspire to encourage events-based tourism in order to add value to the Seychelles holiday experience by showcasing our unique Creole culture.” The pageant was possibly the best ever held in Seychelles, with all contestants of quite high standard and the judges had a mammoth task deciding the winners. At one point after the parade, MCs Amanda Hunt and Raymond Clarisse kept the tension at fever pitch by announcing that there was a “tie” and the judging was taking long because of a “deadlock”. This also maintained the contest to a nail-biting finish. The panel of judges consisted of Seychelles Hospitality and Tourism Association (SHTA) chairman Louis D’Offay; Marie-France Watson, chief editor of Pot-Pourri magazine; Michelle Lane, Miss Seychelles 1997; Tessa Laporte, a former model and owner of Citronella Beauty SPA; Aziz Patel, member of the Miss Reunion organising committee since 1994; Bwalya Mwali, who worked as PR and marketing last year for the first Miss Southern Africa international pageant; and Washington Ali, also involved in the Miss Southern Africa as well as other pageants around the world. If the crowning of Sherlyn Furneau was unanimous, many in the packed audience were subdued when it became clear that favourites such as Vicky Cupidon, Petra Morel and Isabel Lavigne had not won any prize at all. Besides the beautiful girls, the audience also watched video footage of them taking part in various events and at various unique sites. They took part in the Carnaval International de Victoria in March, the eco-friendly marathon and visited the islands of Moyenne and Aride, went hiking up nature trails and snorkelled among the rays in the Baie Ternay Marine Park. The casual wear was sponsored by “Kankan Seychelles” and the swimwear by Fersey, accessorised by Bels Kingharman, Stella & Dott, while the evening dresses were individually sponsored. Before the parade, all contestants performed a sensual dance in traditional Creole skirts - to introduce themselves. MC Hunt said the STB had clearly prepared them for a journey of exploration and discovery. She expressed the hope of everyone that the winners will remain true to themselves and make Seychelles proud of them in whatever they do. “We must show that there is a purpose to beauty,” she said. Mr Clarisse insisted that whatever the outcome, everyone comes out a winner. “May this pageant be a memorable one.” Popular artists, such as Chico Martino, Sandra, Smash Kids kept the audience well entertained whenever the beauty pageant contestants were not on the catwalk.

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Fibre-optic cable arrives

Fibre-optic cable arrives - 28.05.2012 President James Michel was among happy dignitaries and private sector executives who witnessed the historic landing of the eagerly awaited €27 million submarine fibre-optic cable that will revolutionalise telecommunication in Seychelles.   Also present were Vice-President Danny Faure, Natural Resources and Industry Minister Peter Sinon, Seychelles Cable System company (SCS) chairman Benjamin Choppy and its board members including chief executive of Cable and Wireless Seychelles Charles Hammond and the chief executive of Airtel Tsirasy Randriamampiowana. They waited as heavy equipment pulled in the last 484 metres of the cable that now links us with the world network through Dar es Salaam. They also signed the two buoys previously attached to the fore end of the cable, in keeping with the Alacatel-Lucent company tradition which signifies the landing of such a cable. The dignitaries, company representatives and school children symbolically pulled the cable towards the shore near Beau Vallon’s La Plage restaurant where it will be fed into a manhole and joined to a network that is expected to deliver faster and better internet and other telecommunication services in July. The event also attracted many onlookers. Mr Michel said the landing of the cable is “a milestone in our country’s proud history as an independent nation in the global communication village”. He said the event marked a special moment which has the potential for transforming our economy and our way of life, for the better, and noted this week also marks the first anniversary of his second term in office. “The Seychellois people elected me on the platform of my commitment to build a New Seychelles. And I shall not waver nor be distracted in the pursuit of this goal. The transformation of the New Seychelles rests on a knowledge economy, on a knowledge-based society, stimulated by our youth, who live and thrive through IT innovation,” he said.

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Beach activities for schoolchildren mark Biodiversity Day

Beach activities for schoolchildren mark Biodiversity Day - 25.05.2012 

A variety of interesting activities were available to students from the west region of Mahe to mark Biodiversity Day this week.

Students from Grand Anse, Port Glaud and Anse Boileau primary joined up with those from Anse Boileau secondary for a day of fun and learning at the Port Launay beach on Wednesday.

The event was organised by the Department of Environment, in partnership with the Seychelles National Parks Authority, Global Vision International, Seychelles Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles and Mangroves for the Future.

Activities are organised every year for Biodiversity Day, which falls on May 22, and this year’s theme is Marine Biodiversity.

Accompanied by teachers, the students were able to learn about snorkelling equipment and then how to snorkel, and also about equipment used to scuba dive.

Although they could not go into the sea with the scuba gear on, they were able to experience breathing under water in a tub, with ever-vigilant officials for the day making sure everything went smoothly.

There were also games such as find the marine park, face-painting, beanbag toss and relay races.

The message of the Minister for Environment and Energy for Biodiversity Day was also read out, which stressed on islanders such as ourselves making it a must to know our biodiversity.

“We, islanders, should make it a must to for us to dive in the waters around our shores in an effort to better appreciate and discover just how rich the marine biodiversity is.”

“We, Seychellois, as a people, should be proud of not only our natural heritage, but also our achievement as a small nation with limited resources. Today Seychelles is recognised globally as a world leader in biodiversity conservation and we have only achieved this through our hard work and dedication.”

After an exciting day at the beach, the students were told to share what they had learned with others, at home and also at school.

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Ministry and SPTC join forces to improve bus use by students

Ministry and SPTC join forces to improve bus use by students - 23.05.2012 The Ministry of Education is currently working on an education programme in collaboration with the Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) in order to improve and address various concerns in relation to use of SPTC buses by students.  Since the beginning of the second term, the ministry and SPTC officials have been meeting to discuss strategies and develop better ways to tackle issues and concerns being encountered. The main strategy which includes primarily the establishment of a forum for students affairs section within the ministry, the SPTC and the Social Welfare Agency to ease discussions on the proper management of transportation of students. Additionally, there have been meetings with schools on different aspects with regards to SPTC bus service to students and these include bus passes, collection points, and conduct on buses. As a long-term measure, the two partners are in the process of drafting guidelines and procedures for the transportation of students and these will help address issues more effectively and ensure better coordination. On its part, the students affairs unit is also working on an action plan to relook and further reinforce the processes currently in place. During the April vacation, a workshop was organised to empower school wardens on the best practices in the delivery of their services. However, meetings with schools and parents remain ongoing and will intensify throughout the term to ensure information is brought directly to the target audience – parents, students and teachers. The Ministry of Education and the SPTC would like to make a special appeal to all parents and students to use the facilities at their disposal effectively and as per the guidelines. Advice/ Notice for parents and students: 1. Submit bus passes on time to avoid delays 2. Respect collection times set by the ministry and the SPTC 3. Ensure appropriate conduct on and while boarding the bus 4. Parents are not allowed on school buses 5. Students must be in uniform and must always have cards or bus passes with them when boarding the bus at all times

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