Seychelles Maritime Academy Graduation Ceremony |06 March 2020
The graduates in a souvenir photograph with guests (Photo: Louis Toussaint)
Annia Marengo sails away with the President’s Cup
Sixty four students who have successfully completed their studies at the Seychelles Maritime Academy (SMA) officially graduated yesterday afternoon.
The graduation ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre, saw Annia Marengo clinch the coveted President’s Cup.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Vice-President Vincent Meriton, the Speaker of the National Assembly Nicolas Prea, ministers Didier Dogley, Mitcy Larue and Myriam Telemaque, the staff of SMA and parents of the graduates.
The director of SMA, Captain Aruna Kotelawala, congratulated all the students and shared that “remember during your educational journey you did not only gain knowledge and skills about the subject matter, you gained values as well. Ultimately best products are not only a national pride, they are pride of the entire world. Of course we do not claim your success only by yourself; it is the collective efforts of your parents, lecturers, and stakeholders”.
He also reminded the graduates that they are all ambassadors of the SMA, therefore it is an immense responsibility vested on their shoulders and they should never underestimate their responsibility towards their workplace, society and to the Nation.
Mr Kotelawala also thanked all the partners working in close collaboration with SMA to make the courses a success.
The best performer in Advanced Certificate in Nautical Science was awarded to Damien Felix; best performer in Advanced Certificate in Marine Mechanic to Jonathan Zarin; best performer in Advanced Certificate in Fisheries Science to Chris Françoise; best performer in Advanced Certificate in Fishing Technology to Verona Boniface; best performer in Certificate in Fishing Technology (Apprenticeship) Leeroy Fondamiere; best overall effort to Stan Joubert and the positive youth image award sponsored by SNYC (Seychelles National Youth Council) went to Marc Morin.
Annia Marengo, who was studying for an Advanced Certificate in Fisheries Science, was very emotional when she heard her name for the President’s Cup.
“I gave my best in the last two years and I really worked hard. I am currently working but I want to further my studies and earn a doctorate.”
On behalf of the students Chris Françoise thanked all the lecturers, the stakeholders and above all the parents and God who supported them till the end.
“Our achievements have been recognised, and we celebrate this significant milestone in our lives. To the stakeholders, thank you for the opportunities and continuous support given to the Academy. You have one way or another encouraged us in moving forward towards achieving our goals and objectives. You have helped us to overcome our hardships so that we could progress even further.”
The ceremony ended with the traditional group photos and a feast.
Vidya Gappy
