Last Friday, Dr. Patience Awopegba, Education Programme Specialist from UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, paid a visit to the IECD/UNESCO Category 2 Institute at its Head Office in Perseverance, Seychelles. The purpose of her visit was to gain insight into the Institute’s work and identify areas where UNESCO’s support is needed in advancing Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in the region.
Dr. Awopegba was warmly welcomed by the dedicated staff of the Institute, who gave her a tour of the new offices before she met with the senior management team led by CEO Mrs. Shirley Choppy, Chairman Capt. David Savy, and Vice-Chairman Mrs. Sonia Mancienne. During the meeting, the team provided Dr. Awopegba with an overview of the Institute’s key achievements, progress made in recent years, and the main activities anticipated for 2024.
In turn, Dr. Awopegba commended the Institute for its work and pledged the Regional Office’s support in the implementation of projects and initiatives. She was particularly impressed by the Home-Based Child Care service concept, which she viewed as a promising practice that could be implemented across the continent.
Accompanying Dr. Awopegba was Mrs. Vicky Michel, the Secretary General of the Seychelles National Commission for UNESCO, who also expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration between UNESCO and the IECD/UNESCO Category 2 Institute.
The visit highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships and collaboration in advancing ECCE in Seychelles and the region as a whole. With UNESCO’s support and expertise, the Institute is poised to make significant strides in promoting quality early childhood education and care for all children.
Overall, the visit was a testament to the commitment of both UNESCO and the IECD/UNESCO Category 2 Institute to improving the lives of young children and ensuring they have access to high-quality education and care. It is a step towards a brighter future for the children of Seychelles and beyond.
