The new graduates received their certificates in a ceremony at the STA, La Misère, in the presence of Vice-President Joseph Belmont, Minister for Employment and Human Resources Development Macsuzy Mondon, Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) chairman Maurice Loustau-Lalanne, STA principal Flavien Joubert and hotel representatives.

These students followed a course from September to December last year, choosing from food production, housekeeping and laundry, and restaurant and bar.

Addressing the graduates, Mr Loustau-Lalanne said the tourism academy responded promptly to the government’s call to reskill people who left public service under the voluntary departure scheme.

He added that last year there were four sessions, which trained over 500 employees and other people in the private sector who were looking for work.

“These people are already employed in the tourism industry, but there is still demand in this sector,” he said.
Mr Loustau-Lalanne said though it put more pressure on lecturers, they have gone the extra mile to ensure in-service students also graduate from the academy.

He told the graduates that Seychelles is one among many island destinations competing in the tourism industry, and the only difference we can make is by giving our clients the Seychellois uniqueness in our service delivery.

“Visitors will remember our Seychellois culture and cooking, and we need to ensure that all the time we give that Seychellois touch to the industry,” he added.

There was also advice from the manager of tourism planning and development at the STB, Josh Cesar, who told them: “It is not easy to work in the tourism industry, but you have to leave behind all negative attitudes and make a contribution.”

Housekeeping and laundry graduate Dina Esther thanked the government and the STA for their support.

She also expressed her gratitude to all those who have made the programme a success and she encouraged others to join the training.

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