The Ministry of Education & Human Resource Development, the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Energy & Natural Resources, and the Indian Ocean Tortoise Alliance signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday 3rd July to strengthen conservation efforts in Seychelles. The agreement centred on the protection of freshwater marshes and the endemic terrapin, locally known as Torti Soupap, through a flagship initiative entitled “Community Led Rehabilitation of Key Marsh Habitats for Terrapin (Torti Soupap) Conservation on Mahé Island.”
During the ceremony, Dr. Justin Zelime, Principal Secretary for General Education and Curriculum, highlighted the significance of the project, stating: “This project gives our students the chance to be part of the solution. This is very significant because it brings the kind of environmental citizenship and stewardship we are aiming for” His words underscored the role of education in shaping future leaders who are actively engaged in conservation.
The MoU was signed by Dr. Justin Zelime on behalf of the Ministry of Education & Human Resource Development; Mrs. Nanette Laure, Principal Secretary for the Environment Department, on behalf of the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Energy & Natural Resources; and Mr. Rich Baxter, Director of the Indian Ocean Tortoise Alliance. Their signatures formalised a partnership that united government policy, education, and grassroots action to protect Seychelles’ natural heritage.
