Bishop stresses importance of education |10 September 2020

The students in a souvenir photograph with Bishop Wiehe and Father Collin

“Education is important as it is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Catholic Bishop Denis Wiehe made this statement during a special mass on Tuesday for S5 students who will be sitting their final exams in a couple of weeks.

Also present was Father Collin Underwood.

The mass, which was organised for the second time by Anse Boileau secondary school, was celebrated in the district’s parish church.

It served as a moment of reflection for students who will be sitting their final exams this fall.

“The church has always been associated with education in Seychelles and we are happy to continue this partnership. Education is important as it is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” Bishop Wiehe told the students.

He added that students need to take part in holistic education and find an identity, meaning, and purpose in life through connections to the community, to the natural world, and to spiritual values such as compassion and peace.

Bishop Wiehe noted that even though they are graduating, they have not come to the end of their studies as they need to always improve themselves as education doesn’t stop after leaving the school gates.

The bishop also called for a reform in the education system to make it better, more efficient and make sure that the people coming out of the system lead better lives.

On her part the head teacher of the school, Geena Labiche, said she hopes that this mass helps in the school’s mission to integrate moral and spiritual values in students.

Addressing the students, she said: “By God’s grace you will soon complete your secondary schooling. You have gained wisdom, knowledge, development skills and formed various friendships. I urge you all to take the exams seriously so that you can give your best performance.

Noting that next year many students will be readapting as they will be joining post-secondary institutions, she said that this will be a big step and for some will bring about the feeling of uncertainty.

“My advice to you all is to pray and have faith in God,” said the head teacher.

She ended by thanking all students and teachers who took part in the mass and wished all students the best in their exams.

In her vote of thanks Alissa Dogley thanked all students and teachers who took part in the mass as well as all the teachers who have guided them throughout their five secondary school years.

Christopher Adelaide, one the organisers of the mass, noted that due to its success, the mass will be celebrated every year for S5 students.

Christophe Zialor