Youths within the southern region of Mahé now have a one-stop venue where they can access a host of different services aimed at their empowerment and development, with the launch of the revamped Youth Services Bureau at Anse Royale.
Nestled amidst a number of educational institutions including the School of Advanced Level Studies (Sals), Seychelles Business Studies Academy (SBSA), Seychelles Institute of Arts and Design (Siad) and the University of Seychelles (UniSey), the centre offers a number of education-related services, sessions including craft workshops, and other programmes designed to build capacity and equip them with life skills.
The revamped centre was officially launched during a brief ceremony on Tuesday evening, as part of the activities marking Seychelles National Youth Council’s (SNYC) 25th anniversary.
SNYC chief executive (CEO) Albert Duncan explained that in addition to offering computer services as was the case in the past, the centre has expanded its offering to meet today’s demands.
The centre is equipped with new equipment including a television and gaming consoles, realised with the support of partners including telecommunications company Cable & Wireless Seychelles, civil society organisations, and other governmental organisations.
“We now have activities such as CV writing, sessions to build up interview skills, and professionals who are teaching videography, photography, and a little bit of everything. The introduction of e-gaming means they can mix leisure and other skills-building activities,” said CEO Duncan.
“We wanted to create a safe space for the youths, a hub where they can subscribe to a programme and spend their time here. It is more comfortable and modernised, in line with our efforts to modernise SNYC,” said Mr Duncan.
SNYC expects that it will attract a large number of youths who lack such facilities.
With much emphasis being on the mental health of youths, the centre is also offering sessions on mental health, as well as counselling and mentorship programmes. While some who are benefitting from such services are referred by the educational institutions, the centre also caters to walk-ins and has an open-door policy.
Special programmes offered by partners are also promoted on SNYC’s social media platforms and through its youth workers.
A number of youths living in the area have already started to access the centre to make the most of what is on offer.
Student Stephanie Germain was most impressed by the fast internet and the education-geared facilities. Meanwhile, for Corina Vidot, a student of the SBSA, the centre is a bit more than just one where they can print or photocopy essential school notes.
“I think it is really interesting especially for us students who live at the hostel and do not have access to barely any activities. It is especially beneficial to us,” Ms Vidot stated.
A number of SNYC staff and invited guests were present for the launch.
SNYC held a recruitment fair on Saturday and also has just concluded the election process for the Seychelles National Youth Assembly (SNYA).
The centre is operational from Mondays to Fridays between 10am and 6pm, and on Saturdays until 2pm.
Source: Seychelles Nation