67 graduate from maritime academy   |06 May 2023

Seychelles Nation

Eltina Dorizo wins President’s Cup

By Patsy Canaya

Eltina Dorizo, 18, is the winner of the President’s Cup after completing her studies at the School of Maritime Academy last year.

Eltina, who followed a two-year course in Advanced Certificate in Fisheries Science and Fishing Technology, graduated yesterday afternoon, alongside 66 other students who had followed several courses.

In the absence of President Wavel Ramkalawan, who is away on overseas mission, Eltina received her cup from Vice-President Ahmed Afif during the ceremony at the International Conference Centre.

Speaking to the local media, Eltina said she was utterly shocked but extremely happy by the announcement, adding she deserves it for “working hard academically, representing the school and taking part in various activities, which have paid off today”.

Eltina said she had always been fascinated by the maritime field, especially the conservation aspect of it, to protect the various species.

The young graduate, who is presently working, said she would like to pursue her studies and enhance her knowledge in the maritime field although she is yet to choose a specific field.

She has dedicated the outstanding prize to her parents, SMA staff and classmates, whom she said were a big support.

“They created that conducive environment, making school exciting, and motivating me to get out of bed every morning. So, I dedicate this award to them as well,” she concluded.

During yesterday’s ceremony, awards were also presented for Best Effort and Best Performer in all three courses.

Alisha Nicette won for Best Effort in Certificate in Fishing Technology, Kiran Bhageerutty won for Advanced Certificate in Fisheries Science and Fishing Technology, while Chris Esparon won for Best Effort in Advanced Certificate in Nautical Science.

For Best Performers in all three courses, this went to Stephen Rapide in Certificate in Fishing Technology, Amy Andre for Advanced Certificate in Fisheries Science and Fishing Technology and Samuel Micock for Advanced Certificate in Nautical Science.

When addressing the students and guests, the head of the Seychelles Maritime Academy, Prasanna Sedrick, told the students that graduation was the most outstanding events in their lives where they can share their academic accomplishment with their loved ones.

However, it was also the beginning of life’s real journey to fulfill their personal goals and dreams.

He said the real world was waiting for them where they will be able to put their knowledge, skills and values at work.

Captain Sedrick said that as representatives of both the SMA and Seychelles, they now have “the opportunity to be the pride of their country, to work with confidence and dedication on board ships and fishing vessels and in the industry, using the soft skills and discipline acquired at SMA. It is you who will take the responsibility of carrying the flag of this nation, fly it with pride”.

He added that the academy will continue to strengthen the Seychelles’ economy by providing a sound base for pre-service and in-service vocational training in the fisheries and maritime security, producing a skilled professional workforce.

“In the job market we can find many with the same qualifications, but what makes you different from others is your character, your dedication, commitment and discipline,” stated Captain Sedrick.

Sedrick, who said he was proud to see another cohort from the academy graduating, and pursuing a career in the field, urged other young Seychellois to join the field.

Speaking to the local media after the ceremony he said, a team from the SMA will soon travel to Praslin and La Digue to share their courses to secondary students, show the opportunities that exist in marine life, and entice them to join the academy.

During yesterday’s ceremony the graduates also heard from a former student, Meggy Thompson, who is presently working as a commercial shipping manager at Hunt Deltel, who shared her experience as a student and her accomplishment in the maritime field to date.

There were also musical performances by students and teachers.

Patsy Canaya

Photos by Louis Toussaint