The Seychelles Tourism Academy marked its 2026 Annual Graduation Ceremony this afternoon, Thursday 13th August, with President Dr Patrick Herminie joining the celebration of the achievements of 158 graduates who successfully completed their respective programmes in tourism and hospitality.

The ceremony was held at the International Conference Centre Seychelles (ICCS) in the presence of the First Lady Mrs Veronique Herminie, Vice President Sebastien Pillay, Principal Minister and Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy Mr Wallace Cosgrow, Minister for Industry and Enterprise Ms Geralda Desaubin, Minister for Education and Human Resource Development Mr David Pierre, and Minister for Employment and Human Resource Planning Ms Idith Alexander, among other distinguished guests.

Addressing the audience at the beginning of the ceremony, the Director of the Seychelles Tourism Academy, Mr Richard Mathiot, congratulated the graduates on their achievements, noting that their success was a reflection of their hard work, determination, perseverance and sacrifice.

Mr Mathiot also highlighted the continued progress of the Academy, including its accreditations and new programmes, which he said have strengthened its commitment to providing quality education and training that responds to the evolving needs of the tourism and hospitality industry.

He further highlighted the Academy's commitment to inclusive education, noting that three learners with special needs were among this year's graduating class. He described their achievement as an important reminder that education should be accessible to every learner and should provide everyone with the opportunity to develop their abilities, realise their potential and pursue their dreams.

In concluding his remarks, Mr Mathiot expressed appreciation to the Academy's Governing Board, sponsors and industry partners for their continued support and contribution to the Academy's work.

Among the graduating cohort, 12 students were awarded Advanced Diplomas in Hospitality Management after completing the Academy's three-year programme. All 12 graduates met the required academic standards and will pursue further studies at Taylor's University in Malaysia in September 2026.

The Academy's Advanced Certificate programmes, delivered over two years, produced 144 graduates across six specialised areas: Food and Beverage, Culinary Arts, Housekeeping, Rooms Division, Travel and Tourism, and Spa and Beauty Therapy.

The ceremony also recognised outstanding student achievements through several prestigious awards.

The President's Cup, the Academy's highest student award, was presented to Ms Rita Vicky Belize in recognition of her outstanding academic and practical performance, positive attitude, resilience, hard work and positive influence on her peers. She was also recognised for her active participation in school activities and for serving as a role model to fellow students.

The Director's Award was presented to Ms Angellique Baker and Mr Angello Vidot for their remarkable achievements throughout their years of study.

The Governing Board Award, which recognises strong practical and academic performance, was awarded to Ms Shirley Houreau.

The Minister's Award was presented to three graduates: Ms Hanah Adrienne at Certificate level, Ms Rita Vicky Belize at Advanced Certificate level, and Ms Vania Cesar at Advanced Diploma level.

In her virtual congratulatory message, the Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, Mrs Amanda Bernstein, congratulated the Class of 2026 and acknowledged the hard work that had brought them to the milestone of graduation.

Minister Bernstein highlighted the importance of tourism to the Seychelles economy, while emphasising that, above all, tourism is about people. She reminded the graduates that they are now ambassadors of Seychellois hospitality and representatives of the country's Creole spirit, as well as standard-bearers for the quality and authenticity that define the Seychelles tourism brand.

As they prepare to enter the world of work, she encouraged the graduates to keep learning, serve with pride, and never underestimate the difference that one committed professional can make.

The ceremony also featured a motivational address by a former STA graduate, followed by a vote of thanks from President's Cup recipient Ms Rita Vicky Belize, who shared words of encouragement and inspiration with the graduating class as they prepare for the next stage of their professional journeys.

The programme also included a musical performance by MV. The ceremony concluded with a special gesture of appreciation, as Mr Alex Andrews, one of the graduating students with special needs, presented tokens of recognition to President Dr Patrick Herminie, First Lady Mrs Veronique Herminie and Vice President Sebastien Pillay.