Caroline Abel: Remarks - Guy Morel High Achievement Scholarship 2023 Award Presentation

Remarks by Ms Caroline Abel, Governor of Central Bank of Seychelles, at the Guy Morel High Achievement Scholarship 2023 Award Presentation, Victoria, 1 March 2023. 

The views expressed in this speech are those of the speaker and not the view of the BIS.

First and Second Deputy Governor,
Scholarship Committee Members,
Scholarship Awardees and Guests,
Colleagues,

Good morning.

I am pleased that, once again, the Guy Morel High Achievement Scholarship offer has yielded positive results and today we are presenting another two successful recipients with their scholarship awards.

It has been encouraging to see the growing interest and enthusiasm displayed by numerous young individuals aspiring to be trained to contribute towards various fields in the financial sector over the past years, since CBS first launched the scholarship programme in 2018. The results obtained thus far are even more gratifying. Out of five scholarships awarded since 2019, three scholars have completed their studies - one at undergraduate level and two at postgraduate level - attaining outstanding results in their respective fields. They have now assumed professional roles within the financial sector, among which two have joined the Central Bank. The other two recipients still pursuing their studies are also recording excellent results.

Developing the financial sector through various endeavours, such as enhancing the regulatory frameworks, modernising the payment landscape and increasing financial education, amongst others, is crucial to economic growth. In light of this, the importance of human capital cannot be overemphasised. Therefore, Seychelles must continue to build the pool of talent with specialised skills and knowledge to design innovative policies and strategies, seize the opportunities and take on the challenges that are continuously emerging, if we are to be successful in building a resilient and thriving financial sector. Our ongoing capacity-building efforts must also consider global developments that can ultimately impact the domestic economy to ensure prompt action to identify new areas of expertise that need to be nurtured.

As part of its scholarship programme, the Central Bank will continue to identify emerging and priority fields of study and support capable and committed individuals aspiring to build a career in this sector.

At this juncture, I would like to thank the Scholarship Committee for your hard work and diligence in assessing the applications, conducting the interviews and proposing the most deserving candidates for the scholarship awards each year.

To our 2023 recipients, Turissa and Calvin, I would like to commend your hard work and success achieved in your respective journeys thus far, which showcase your determination and aspiration to be empowered to contribute towards the development of the financial sector and the betterment of the country's economy.

I would also like to congratulate you as you embark on the next step to pursue your studies in your chosen fields. The Central Bank and your loved ones will walk alongside you and support you throughout your journeys.

We are confident that you will strive to attain the highest possible results as you draw inspiration from past recipients and as you endeavour to become an example and inspiration to others who may be considering applying for this opportunity in the future.

Once again, we wish you the best of luck - study hard and, at the same time, take time to enjoy the wholesome experience that comes with university studies.

Thank you.