UniSey to uphold Mancham’s legacy of peace and reconciliation |11 January 2017

The University of Seychelles (UniSey) has paid tribute to the late founding President James R. Mancham, noting that his message of peace and reconciliation has never been more timely.

“In honour of his memory and all that he has achieved, we will renew our efforts to preserve and build on this legacy,” says a statement from the UniSey.

The full text of the statement reads:

“The passing of Sir James Mancham, the founding President of the Republic of Seychelles, is a matter of deep regret for his family and nation alike. At the University of Seychelles, we have lost a good friend, a welcome figure on our campuses and a respected dignitary at official events.

“Last year the university established the Sir James Mancham International Centre for Peace Studies & Diplomacy. This was in recognition of the tireless work of Sir James to spread his message of peace and reconciliation and his belief that the university could help him to take this further. His involvement in the formative few months of the Centre was not simply as a figurehead but as an active participant. He enjoyed an international reputation for his work and was at the hub of an extensive network of likeminded individuals and organisations.

“Sadly, this involvement has been cut short and those who have worked closely with him are especially shocked to learn of his passing. We mourn the loss of a man who was generous and considerate, full of hope and determined to do the best for humanity.

“Sir James’s message of peace and reconciliation has never been more timely and, in honour of his memory and all that he has achieved, we will renew our efforts to preserve and build on this legacy. For now, though, our thoughts are with his family, who have indeed lost a very special person.”