To enhance their knowledge and skills in fisheries and aquaculture, Seychellois experts participated in this year’s International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP), gaining valuable insights from U.S. best practices in the sector. The Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA) delegates, Veronica Alphonse–Uzice, Rodney Govinden, and Aubrey Lesperance, embarked on a journey across Washington D.C, Corpus Christi, Tampa, and Portland in September.
The IVLP, titled “The Benefits of Transparent Fisheries Management in the Western Indian Ocean,” facilitated exchanges between professionals from Seychelles, Comoros, Madagascar, and Mauritius. Lesperance, the head of Aquaculture at SFA, highlighted the program’s significance in fostering knowledge exchange, enabling Seychellois professionals to learn from experiences in sustainable fishing and aquaculture.
The Seychelles delegation engaged with various organizations and institutions during their visit, including the PEW Research Centre for discussions on data analyses for sustainable fisheries management. Meetings with representatives from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Florida Aquatic Preserves, and academic institutions like the Universities of South Florida and New England further enriched their understanding.
One of the program’s highlights was a sea excursion with Lucky Catch, a Maine lobster fishing company, where the delegation experienced lobster fishing firsthand. Visits to Luke’s Lobster, Bangs Island Mussels, and the Maine Trade Centre provided valuable perspectives on integrated lobster fishing, aquaculture, and fish auction processes.
Govinden, the head of Fisheries at SFA, expressed how the program broadened his perspective on collaborative efforts to address challenges in the fisheries sector. The delegation also utilized the opportunity to identify potential partnerships for future projects that could be funded by the U.S. Embassy through their Alumni program.
Lesperance concluded, “As part of the Alumni family, we can apply for various funds and programs to better help our work and programs in our respective fields.” The IVLP experience not only contributed to the professional growth of the Seychellois experts but also showcased Seychelles’ commitment to sustainable development on the international stage.
