National Assembly observes Deaf Week |09 December 2025

Students of the deaf centre perform for the audience

The National Assembly of Seychelles last Thursday hosted a commemorative activity for Deaf Week, observed this year in Seychelles from Friday November 28 to Friday December 5.

Present were the deputy Speaker Hon. Egbert Aglae, leader of the opposition Hon. Bernard Georges, leader of government business Hon. Sylvanne Lemiel, other honourable members, the Clerk and deputy Clerk, and National Assembly service staff.

Representing the deaf community were the chairperson of the Association of People with Hearing Impairment (Aphi), Anita Gardner, teachers and students of the deaf centre, and other members and volunteers within the deaf community.

The activity began with a performance of ‘I Want to Know What Love Is’, where deaf students sung through the use of Lalang Siny Seselwa (LSS), demonstrating that music is an equally accessible art form of which they are able to participate and excel in.

It was followed by a presentation by Shana David, a deaf person and teacher at the centre. During her presentation, participants were enlightened on various aspects of the deaf community including current and projected statistics, deaf culture, historical and ongoing challenges, as well as achievements and the roadmap to a more accessible future in Seychelles.

The interactive presentation allowed honourable members to ask questions hence gaining more insights into their role as legislators in providing the necessary support to the deaf community and ensuring their equal participation in the society.

During the event, Vice-President Sebastien Pillay made a surprise intervention, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the deaf community and emphasising the National Assembly’s dedication to ensuring their representation in all national and legislative forums.

With a renewed spirit, the students then gave a heartwarming dance performance to ‘Miyonn’ by John Wirtz, again demonstrating their resilience and talent in various art forms.

On behalf of the deaf centre, Ms Gardner presented four copies of the Diksyoner Lalang Siny Seselwa to the Honourable Speaker, the leader of the opposition, the leader of government business, and the National Assembly Library.

All students and teachers were each given a Christmas gift on behalf of the National Assembly, as a symbol of the continued positive relationship and the renewed affirmation to ensuring equality and accessibility for all.

The event concluded with closing remarks from deputy Speaker Hon. Aglae, who expressed profound appreciation for the opportunity to welcome the deaf community to the National Assembly once again and extended warm wishes for a joyful festive season and New Year ahead.

Contributed