In a strategic move to align tourism training with evolving industry needs, the Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA), under the aegis of the Tourism Department, has entered a formal partnership with Club Med Seychelles. The collaboration aims to enhance tourism education, support staff development, and offer real-world, work-based learning opportunities for the next generation of tourism professionals in Seychelles.
The official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place at 9:00 AM on Monday, 5th August 2025, at Botanical House, Mont Fleuri. The agreement was signed by Mr Richard Mathiot, Director of the Seychelles Tourism Academy, and Mr Lionel Kupper, Director of Operations for Club Med Indian Ocean.
The MoU outlines key areas of cooperation between STA and Club Med Seychelles, including student and staff exchange programmes, work-based attachments for STA learners at Club Med resorts, participation of Club Med staff in STA’s specialised training courses, joint professional development and cultural enrichment activities, and the sharing of educational resources and insights into global tourism trends.
“This event today marks an important partnership. Club Med has taken many of our learners on work-based experience, and we have many success stories. The Academy will continue to create opportunities through our growing partnerships,” said Mr Richard Mathiot.
Mr Mathiot further highlighted the importance of this collaboration, noting the tangible success of students who have already undertaken placements at Club Med properties. He reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment to fostering real-world opportunities for both learners and staff.
Club Med Seychelles has pledged to provide STA trainees with accommodation, structured internship agreements, weekly rest periods, and on-site soft skills training, ensuring a holistic development experience.
Valid for five years, the MoU includes a built-in framework for ongoing review and continuous improvement. Designated coordinators from both institutions will oversee its implementation.
Mr Kupper expressed deep pride in formalising what he described as a long-standing partnership, noting that training lies at the heart of Club Med’s identity. He emphasised the role of multiculturalism, skills development, and international mobility in shaping the future of Seychellois tourism professionals.
“Training is the DNA of Club Med. We believe in developing local talent, helping them grow and eventually lead our global resorts,” he said.
The collaboration also reflects the Tourism Department’s ongoing commitment to bridging academic training with private sector needs—further cementing Seychelles’ reputation as a competitive, quality-focused destination.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, echoed this sentiment, underlining the national importance of such partnerships. He highlighted the role of the Academy in fostering confidence, career development, and international exposure for Seychellois youth.
“This collaboration is about giving young people the confidence to dream, to believe that they can grow and succeed—not just locally, but globally. It’s our duty to guide and support them on that journey,” he concluded.
