The President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan hosted the annual High Achievers Award Ceremony at State House yesterday morning, where some 58 students in public and private schools were recognised for having excelled in the 2022 National and International Examinations in Cambridge IGCSE, and Advanced Level. 

President Ramkalawan congratulated the students for their outstanding performance and on behalf of the country have expressed pride in view that there has been an increase in the number of students that have excelled in their studies this year. He thanked their parents for the support they have given them throughout their studies.

“I want to encourage you to persevere, never give up, and keep following your dreams. Do not allow yourself to be distracted by what is not important and remember that there is a time for everything and I believe right now your time is to study even harder, have a target, and be focused. I wish you the very best, I know I will be receiving some of you back here when you complete your A’ Levels and I am looking forward to welcoming the others when you complete university. You have the support of everyone, and we will continue to give encouragement for our students to do even better and that challenges are overcome by what we invest in you and what we invest in all those that go through our education system here in Seychelles,” said President Ramkalawan.

On her part, the Principal Secretary for Education Services, Ms. Merna Eulentin commended the students for their outstanding results where she described them as role models for those who are struggling to pass their exam. She underlined that this event is very important in view that it recognizes the aptitudes of candidates from both; the private and public institutions. She noted that parents, teachers, stakeholders, and everyone else must continue to work together to give every child the best education.

“Your achievements symbolises the immense pride you have in your education. Please, do take note, that sometimes when you are at your highest peak, which is on top of the mountain, this is where you will encounter a few or many challenges. My advice to you is that you stay focused, keep moving forward, ignore the noise, and think of the bigger picture. Dear parents continue to invest in your children’s education in all the ways possible and I am confident that your rewards will be remarkable,” said Ms. Eulentin.

Also present was the Minister for Education, Dr. Justin Valentin, Principal Secretary for Education Sector Development, Mr. John Lesperance, Ministry of Education officials, Principals, and teachers from the various schools.