Post-Secondary Graduates Get Orientation on Government Scholarship
VICTORIA, Seychelles, Post-secondary graduates who have qualified for government scholarships had their first meeting with education ministry officials yesterday to learn about the application process and career opportunities in the country. The information will be useful for them when making their choice of what to study and where. The meeting at the STC conference room was led by Education Minister Dr Justin Valentin and the scholarship team, and was attended by the 2021 to 2023 cohorts of the Seychelles Advanced Level Studies, the Seychelles Business Studies Academy, the A-levels of Independence School and International School, as well as some mature students.
Discussions involved the application process, as well as learning about different factors and objectives needed when they have gained their scholarship. In his address, Minister Valentin had a few inspiring and congratulatory words for them. I would like to congratulate each and every one of you. These scholarships are not only about providing financial assistance, they are a testament in our belief in the power of education to transform lives and drive positive change, he said.
He reminded them that once they accept and sign the scholarship, they are bonded to their country. Your country needs you, stated Minister Valentin, stressing that it was investment being done by the country and to not let this opportunity go to waste. During yesterday orientation, graduates willing to study at the University of Seychelles were also given information pertaining to the institution and how to go about their enrollment. The presentation covered available courses and the application timeline.
The university presentation was given by Dolivette Chang-Ko, director of Marketing, Communications and Public Engagement, who highlighted the courses and programmes and gave an overview of what the experience would be like if they were to attend the university. The graduates also sought clarification on a number of practical matters, including the timing of disbursements and the process for changing courses in the first year. Many said the session helped them to settle on a clear path for the year ahead.
In an interview with the local press, Barbara Kilindo, principal scholarship administrator, said there are about 200 graduates interested in government scholarships in 2024. She said the meeting was not only to share details about enrollment but to allow them to choose their field of interest. The students are now left with their long decisions on their future. The ministry plans to hold similar sessions later in the year for those who may qualify under the next intake.
