Book Launch Report

The guest of honor was the Minister of Education Hon. Dr. Justin Valentin. Other guests include: Mayor of Victoria and Secretary General of the New Institute of Culture Heritage and the Arts, Mr David Andre, Principal Secretary of Education, Dr. Linda Barallon. Also, present was  the Chairperson of the board of Governors for International School of Seychelles, Mrs. Pricille Chetty,  ISS students and parents, Mrs. Elodie Vallantine Principal and Head of Secondary, International School of Seychelles, Mr Wellington Manjegwa (President of the Rotary club of Seychelles), Pastor Abel Ntep (Seventh-Day Adventist church.

Other invited international special guests who joined virtually includes: Prof. Yianis Miralis - European University Cyprus (Cyprus), Prof. Akosua Abuo Addo - University of Minnesota (USA), Prof. Mellitus Wanyama - Kabarak University (Kenya), Prof. Lukas Ligeti (Austria) and, Prof.Geoff Madimabe Mapaya - University of Venda (South Africa. 

In his remarks to the press, Mr Chitambo (Author) quickly outlined the book's content. 

“The book, ‘History and State of Music Education in Seychelles’, highlights the state of music education in Seychelles, based on historical and current perspectives. It focuses on public primary and secondary schools with comparison to the private sectors and international musical practices. The book documents the historical trajectory of music education from the French and British colonial times to contemporary music practices. It investigates the musical practices in general terms ranging from performance on traditional instruments to modern musical instruments. It highlights the first music educators in Seychelles and their significant contribution to music education. It interrogates the general perceptions of head teachers, music teachers, students, youths, government officials and the public regarding music education in Seychelles. Consequently, the book suggests strategies and measures for improving music education in the country.

The book does not only discuss music in the country, but it also tells the origin narratives of the Seychelles. The tales spoken of by the country's elderly. It was a privilege to have interviewed the elderly citizens of the nation. Ultimately, the book documents the cultural heritage of Seychelles taught by the old folks for the generation to come” Mr Chitambo told the Journalists. 

Mr Chitambo also acknowledged the talent that exists in the country. “Honorable Minister, there is so much talent in the country. Unfortunately there are less qualified music educators to meet the needs of many young people.  “A country like Seychelles, honorable Minister, needs a music program at the national university. A music education program at the state university will contribute to shaping music development and further improve the state of musical arts in the country. Before sending youths abroad, the country must first exploit what is available within its country. Mr. Chitambo also stated that in order to improve the arts in the country, more funding for music programmes will be needed to improve the infrastructure and retain professionals. Establishing national programs for training teachers will be vital for the country," he said. 

“Currently most individuals who are teaching music are only musicians but not qualified teachers. It is therefore important that the country look into teacher training programs for music education to improve. “Identifying youth who would like to take on the music profession by offering scholarships to those interested”  Moving music education back to the Ministry of Education where it originally started from before moving it to The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture. A country like Seychelles needs to collaborate internationally with universities offering music programs. This will open more opportunities for many youths in the country and change their perception and views regarding music as a profession and eventually boost most youth's interest in studying music as a career”.

When asked about his motivation to write the book, “ first and foremost, I aspired to contribute to this lovely country. Unfortunately, I didn't see much of what I envisioned come to fruition.  However, The four years I lived and worked in the country provided me with a clear understanding of the challenges and factors affecting the development of music education. Like in most countries, music is often regarded as less important in education compared to other subjects and most children find it hard to choose music as a life career. Eventually most children drop music. The children in this country motivated me to write the book’ he added.

“I believe the book will contribute positively towards the improvement of music education in schools as well as the national archive of this nation”. “The book also contributes to the global literature in music education. Specifically, the topic of the history of music in Seychelles and the neighboring countries in the Indian ocean has been neglected by scholars”. 

The book is now available for purchase in all Antigone book outlets nationwide; Antigone Airport Shop and Chanterelle. The book can also be ordered at https://www.jcmusiceducation.com/