Ginnie Marie tops among tourism grads |28 May 2005

The graduation ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre, drew a guest list that included Vice-President Joseph Belmont, Minister of Education and Youth Danny Faure, Opposition Leader Wavel Ramkalawan and the executive chairman of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Sylvestre Radegonde.

In capturing the Minister’s Award as the best overall performer, Ms Marie came away with a sponsored holiday to North Island Resort valued at 5,000 Euros and other prizes.

The 159 students to graduate on Wednesday included 20 currently undertaking a three-month work attachment in the Maldives.

Certificates and diplomas were handed out to graduates specialising in food and beverage service, the culinary arts, accommodation and reception.

Individual awards were also presented to students in those fields for their academic and work-related performances, best effort, and for prowess in English and French.

Addressing the graduates at the start of the ceremony, SHTTC principal Brian Hoareau said that their time at the hotel school not only give the students the chance to learn about the hospitality trade, but also to learn about themselves.

He said that while the graduation was a celebration for students to reflect on “a wealth of achievement,” it also signified a handover of sorts to the tourism industry. Mr Hoareau encouraged employers in the industry to nurture the graduates in their professional development.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Mr Hoareau added that he felt there was a strong demand for SHTTC graduates within the tourism industry, and that the school would be welcoming a larger cohort this year.