VICTORIA, Seychelles, Vice President Ahmed Afif visited the National Information Services Agency (NISA) yesterday afternoon, touring the editorial section based in town opposite the Amusement Centre and the printing unit at Bois de Rose. The aim of the visit was for the vice president, who holds the portfolio for information, to learn of the successes, constraints and challenges of the agency, and to interact with staff. It was his first visit to the agency since coming into office in the new administration.
The visit started at the editorial section, and he was met on arrival by the chief executive Gerard Govinden, the board chairperson Kurtis Lespoir, and other NISA management staff and board members. The vice president was given a tour of the newsroom and briefed on the daily workflow of the editorial team. He was also shown the layout of the production area and introduced to the journalists, editors and support staff who keep the newspaper and online platforms running.
At the printing unit at Bois de Rose, the vice president was taken through the production process, from the moment copy leaves the editorial desk to the finished copies coming off the press. Staff explained the recent investments in equipment and the steps being taken to modernise the workflow. Mr Afif thanked the team for their dedication and for keeping the public informed, especially during emergencies and major national events.
Discussions between the vice president and the management team also touched on the financial sustainability of the agency, the training needs of staff, and the role of NISA in supporting government communication priorities. The vice president assured the team of his continued support and encouraged them to come forward with ideas that could help the agency serve the public better. He said he looked forward to returning for a follow-up visit in due course.
Mr Govinden said the agency was pleased to host the vice president and used the occasion to outline some of the planned activities for the year. These include a refresh of the editorial style guide, a series of training sessions for journalists, and a review of the printing schedule to better serve advertisers and readers. The board chairperson added that the agency will continue to play its role as the country primary source of news and information.
