Address by the President of the Republic on the occasion of the Inauguration of the Fourth International Education Fair organised by Campus Abroad Mauritius Ltd.
Friday 27 November 2009 at 1030 hrs Four Points Sheraton Hotel, Ebène
The Chairperson, Campus Abroad Mauritius Ltd. Representatives of Overseas Educational Institutions Distinguished Guests Ladies and Gentlemen
It is with great pleasure and honour that I associate myself with the inauguration of this Fourth Edition of the International Education Fair which is being organised by Campus Abroad Mauritius Ltd.
The three previous editions, I am informed, have met with astounding success. I have, no doubt, that this Fourth Edition as well, will be crowned with success. For this 2009 Edition, a record participation of not less than 20 institutions of international repute has been enlisted. Countries represented at this Fair are U.K., Chine, India, Switzerland, Hungary and the U.S.A.
The holding of Education Fairs is fashionable these days as this is a good means to offer information on a number of universities under one roof, whereby students can compare the different courses offered and the costs involved. With the rise in the standard of living over the past decades, demand for tertiary education is increasing. Although, in figures, the number of students going for Higher School Certificate has decreased the number of students going for tertiary education has increased. Even though we have seen a number of tertiary institutions coming up on the local scene, still there is a high demand for overseas education.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I congratulate Campus Abroad Mauritius Ltd. for having once more organized this Fair. It is a platform for students to meet and discuss with the university representatives in person. By so doing, useful information is gathered, doubts are cleared and rational decisions are taken. This Fair is also an opportunity for students to interact with Mauritian Alumni from these universities.
Since its establishment in 2001, Campus Abroad Mauritius Ltd. has always acted as a facilitator to enable Mauritian students to pursue overseas education. The institution acts as a one stop shop where the student is guided in terms of choice of university, the various courses available, information about the country, location, lodging and of course financial details. Campus Abroad tries to match the aspirations of the students with the best choices available.
Regarding the overseas institutions where seats are sought for, I am informed that they have a solid reputation and possess vast experiences in handling overseas students. I am also informed that Campus Abroad has helped overseas educational institutions to set up their base in Mauritius by conducting market surveys and liaising with the authorities concerned for permits and licences. One concrete example is the setting up of the JSS Academy , which is expanding and has recently joined hands with the Middlesex University to open a campus here.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I wish to congratulate all the staff of Campus Abroad, for making things happen for so many Mauritian students who have opted for overseas tertiary education. I have a special mention for the Chairperson of the institution, Mr Ramduth Jaddoo, whom I know personally. Mr Jaddoo is well-known in Mauritius, having been a former Minister of Education. I also wish to congratulate the collaborators of Mr. Jaddoo, namely Mr Seshadri Jayasankar and Mrs Rajeshwari Jayasankar, who have greatly contributed in the promotion of Campus Abroad.
The vision of Campus Abroad to offer quality services at tertiary level matches with the vision of Government to transform Mauritius into a knowledge hub. The setting up of branches of reputable overseas institution in Mauritius, such as the Middlesex University , will greatly improve the level of education being imparted. However, we should be very cautious when delivering licences and accreditation. I understand the Ministry of Education, Culture and Human Resources is monitoring the situation closely.
I hope this Education Fair will be of great assistance for students seeking to pursue higher education overseas and many of them will be able to make the right choice. I wish everybody plenty of success.
I now have the pleasure in declaring this International Education Fair open.
