The Judiciary of Seychelles and the University of Seychelles (UniSey) have marked a groundbreaking moment in legal education with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the official launch of Seychelles’ first Certificate in Paralegal Studies. The event, held at the Palais de Justice on Monday 20 January 2025, brought together prominent members of the Judiciary, academia, and students to celebrate this milestone.
The Chief Justice, Rony Govinden, and UniSey Vice Chancellor, Ms. Joëlle Perreau, highlighted the significance of this collaboration in their addresses.
“This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to enhancing access to justice and bridging the gap between theoretical legal education and the practical realities of our judicial system,” remarked Vice Chancellor Perreau. She emphasized that the initiative aligns with national priorities and will empower students through internships, workshops, and exposure to real-world legal practices.
Chief Justice Govinden echoed these sentiments, underscoring the Judiciary’s dedication to fostering innovation in legal education and professional development. “The launch of this program signifies an essential step in building a competent workforce that supports the legal profession while promoting justice for all,” he stated.
The event also included opening remarks by Dr. Michael Hall, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Sustainable Development, who officially launched the Certificate in Paralegal Studies. A prior student who will be one of the lecturers of the program, Ms. Angelique, spoke about student expectations and how the course will run. Dr. Proceed Manatsa, Head of the Department of Law, also provided a detailed overview of the program to the students separately after the MoU signing, outlining its objectives to equip individuals with the skills necessary to excel in the legal field.
The MoU between the Judiciary and UniSey not only facilitates this pioneering program but also establishes a framework for ongoing collaboration in research, professional development, and legal awareness.