‘New school a landmark for Ile Perseverance’ |15 June 2013

At the official opening of the school yesterday, Ms Mondon said that the building of new homes, a new community and a brand new school had lent a “striking aura” to the artificially-constructed island of Ile Perseverance, where once before there was only an expanse of sea.

Hundreds of smartly-dressed children stared wide-eyed as President James Michel, the cabinet of ministers, the speaker and members of the National Assembly, members of the diplomatic corps and members of the National Day Celebration Committee descended on their school yesterday morning, along with a very special guest of honour, African Union Commission chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma. The glass-fronted hall was abuzz with youthful excitement as the children caught sight of the president and other dignitaries entering the area, only to be quickly silenced by watchful teachers.

“Today we are opening yet another educational institution that will open the doors of opportunity for our children and their community,” said the education minister.

Three hundred students from districts all over Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and 40 staff moved into the new school in March this year, and according to Ms Mondon, they have settled in well to their new environment.

The education minister called the architectural design “innovative and a first for our schools”, saying it did justice to the overall planning concept of the island.
Ms Mondon said the design of the school, which has the capacity to accommodate over 700 students, enabled children to work in small teams outside the classroom, facilitated communication and provided opportunities for socialisation.

The minister added that the opening ceremony was part of a series of events and activities planned to celebrate National Day on June 18, and said the government’s chosen theme for the year was “striving for our Seychelles”, a theme which she said encapsulated the efforts of the ministry of education for the past twenty years.

A total of three schools have been planned for Ile Perseverance to accommodate the growing number of residents on the island as the building of new houses reaches completion.
A secondary school will be built as well as a second primary school located on the south side of the island.

In her vote of thanks, Ms Mondon praised President Michel as a visionary leader with steadfast determination who worked tirelessly to deliver on his promises and provide what is best for the people of Seychelles.

Ms Nella Belmont, head teacher of Ile Perseverance North primary school, said the school was a dream come true for many of the families in the new community.
Ms Belmont said the pupils recognised and appreciated the investment in their education through the building of the school.

“Ever since the day we set foot in this new school, there has not been a day that we have not reminded ourselves of how grateful we are for such a beautiful school,” she said.

“Rest assured that as a community, we will do our best to work as a united team to ensure the progress and holistic development of our children,” said Ms Belmont.

“We will strive and persevere for the success of our school, our community and our beloved Seychelles.”

President Michel and guests are taken on a tour of the school’s facilities