OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

PRESS RELEASE

13.07.2012

GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR THE SECOND COHORT OF THE SYLP

President James Michel, Chancellor of the University of Seychelles, has congratulated the 29 graduates of the second cohort of the Seychelles Young Leaders’ Programme (SYLP), at the graduation ceremony held at the International Conference Centre this evening. They had all successfully completed the intensive two-year MA degree programme in leadership and strategy, and which incorporated a strong local and international dimension.

The President said that the Young Leaders’ programme was a key Government policy initiative to identify and train young people with potential to be future leaders and innovators and who would acquire the necessary skills and training experience to take up, subsequently, leadership positions in the country.

“I would like to remind you, though, that graduating from the Young Leaders’ Programme is not an end in itself. Certainly, the skills and attributes that you have learnt and developed will stand you in good stead. They will help you to progress in life and in your careers. But career advancement is not automatic. You will have to earn it. Through hard work, your personal integrity and honesty. By developing your talents to their full potential, leading by example, being innovative, empowering others and being accountable to society,” said President Michel.

The President said that graduates should respect their peers and subordinates,  and show humility, dignity and respect as only by so doing would they become true leaders, worthy of the trust and respect of the people.

 “…Remember this day and be inspired in all that you do in future. Remember the adage: “A good leader inspires others with confidence in him; a great leader inspires them with confidence in themselves”. Remember also that leadership is service. Service with humility, dignity and integrity. Service to our people and to our country. Defeat or retreat should never be part of your discourse. We have confidence in you and rely on you. We expect you to be the leaders of change. Positive change for the New Seychelles,” said President told the graduates.

The President wished them continued success and asked them to give of their best to help improve the welfare of their fellow citizens and for the betterment of the country.

The graduation ceremony took place in the presence of the Pro Chancellor of the University of Seychelles, Professor Rolph Payet, Vice Chancellor, Mrs. Marina Confait, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Ms. Lucy Athanasius and Dr. John Nolan from the National University of Ireland.

The ceremony was also attended by the Vice President, Mr. Danny Faure, Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Patrick Herminie , Chief Justice Egonda Ntende, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Francis MacGregor, Ministers, Leader of Government Business, Ms. Marie-Antoinette Rose, Leader of the Opposition, Mr. David Pierre, Members of the National Assembly, local and foreign Diplomats and other distinguished guests.

Editor’s Note

·         The Seychelles Young Leaders Programme (SYLP) is a project announced by President James Michel in his 2007 National Day Address.  It is designed to bring together and groom potential Seychellois leaders who have demonstrated leadership capability or share a clear commitment to shaping and serving our Nation’s future.

·         The programme involves an initial two years of study and training, leading to the President’s special SYLP Award and an MA degree in leadership and strategy.