First bankers gain international honours |13 December 2010

The SIM’s chief executive Audrey Nanon said the training was aimed at supporting the financial services sector as it grows to become the third pillar of the economy alongside tourism and fisheries.

They were given their certificates by Central Bank of Seychelles governor Pierre Laporte, who stressed the need for training amid reports that 98% of the country’s bankers have not been formally trained.

Also present at the Ma Joie ceremony was the former chief executive of the SIM, Daniella Larue.

The graduates are Jean-Luc Quilindo, Maryna Esther and Marie May Angele Lesperance from Barclays Bank; Marie May Vanita Lesperance from the Mauritius Commercial Bank; Virginia Anne Moustache from the Seychelles Savings Bank; and Agnes Roselia Quatre and Marianna Andimignon from Nouvobanq. Moses Masiga from the SIM also followed the course and got a certificate.

The certificates were awarded by the Institute for Fiscal Studies, a UK professional body that promotes effective economic and social policies by understanding better their impact on individuals, families, businesses and government finances, and by promoting understanding and discussion of these issues.

Mrs Nanon said given the government’s policy to expand the financial services sector, it is crucial that there are more qualified professionals in it.

“The provision of training that develops the knowledge, skills and attitudes of the personnel who work in the banking industry is, therefore, seen as vital,” she said.

Mr Laporte urged the bankers to put what they have learnt into practice and share the information they gained with their colleagues at work so the sector becomes more productive in the long run.

“The public at large are crying out for an improvement in the quality and standards of services that our banks provide,” he said.

“Value for money is something that any client yearns for. It is a fact today that the Seychellois public feel that at a general level there is scope for improvement when it comes to value for money from our financial institutions.”

He appealed to all heads of banks and other financial institutions to work harder to improve the quality of services they give.

“I also urge you to invest more in training of your staff. Investment in education and training should not be seen as an option for institutions, it should be an obligation,” said Mr Laporte.

“On our side as regulator, the Central Bank will continue to work closely with you as in the end your success will be our success.”