Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research & Technology

ISSUE NO. 2 | MARCH 2013

Quarterly E-Newsletter

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Editorial TeamMr. Vikash BeelatooMs. Shaina WoodunMs. Kushal Ruggoo

ContributorsMrs. N. D. Nababsing

Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research & Technology

Mrs. R. GujadhurBoard of Investment

Mrs. T. Benydin- KoolwontBoard of Investment

Ms. A. BajnathTertiary Education Commission

Mrs. A. NivaultUniversity of Mauritius

Mr. R. PoorunStudents’ Union, University of Mauritius

Mrs. H. Mungun-JhurryMauritius Research Council

Ms. A. M. L’EvequeFashion & Design Institute

Mr. D. BalgobinRajiv Gandhi Science Centre

Mr. P. RamsurrunUniversite des Mascareignes

Mr. J. BeesoonOpen University of Mauritius

Dr. (Mrs.) V. D. KoonjalMahatma Gandhi Institute

Table  of  Contents

Transforming Mauritius into a Knowledge-Based Economy 2

1. Consultative Workshop on Strategy Paper 3

2. Lindau Nobel Laureates Meeting: Two Mauritian Researchers Selected 5

3. Corporate Education Sponsorship Agreement between the African Union

Commission & Hult International Business School 6

4. MIKIF 2013 7

5. Induction for Law Practitioners Vocational Course 9

6. National Forum on Youth and Entrepreneurship 10

7. Mauritius International University, Career & Job Expo 12

8. Communique from Ministry of Health & Quality of Life 13

9. Minister Jeetah’s Visit to Universite de Limoges 14

10. Honorable Minister’s Visit to UK 15

11. Meeting with Prof. Banarsee (Imperial College) 16

12. Business Facilitation Meeting 17

13. Courtesy Calls 17

Study Mauritius 19

14. Scholarships to 50 Deserving African Students 20

15. MOU between University of Mauritius and Canberra Institute of

Technology 21

16. Open Days at University of Mauritius 22

17. Africa Education Leadership Awards Ceremony 23

18. Fashion & Design Institute Graduation Ceremony 24

19. MOU between Apparel Management (India) and the Fashion & Design

Institute 24

20. School Presentations by Fashion & Design Institute 24

21. Open Workshops 25

22. Mahatma Gandhi Institute: New Programme of Studies for 2013 25

23. Fund Raising: Etoile du Berger 25

24. Open Days at Fashion & Design Institute 26

25. First Intake at Open University of Mauritius 27

26. Remise de Diplome: Centre D’Etudes Superieures of MCCI 28

27. End of Year Party: Theme ‘Survival Party’ 29

28. Chess Wizard Competition 30

29. Culture Sharing 30

30. Talks by Engineering Society 30

Research, Science & Technology 31

31. Award Ceremony: Training Course on Research Methodology &

Postgraduate Award Conference 32

32. Consultative Meeting on Experimental Wheat Cultivation 33

33. Outreach Activities in Rodrigues 33

34. Sky Observation at Poudre D’Or 33

35. Science Week at Rose Belle 34

36. RGSC launches 3 Competitions 35

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TRANSFORMING MAURITIUS INTO A KNOWLEDGE-

BASED ECONOMY

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A Workshop was held on 28 February 2013 to consult all stakeholders on the proposed strategic plan for the tertiary education sector. A draft Strategy Paper was circulated proposing five strategic goals to transform the country into a Knowledge-Based Economy:‣ Strategic Goal 1: Widening Access and Ensuring Equity‣ Strategic Goal 2: Improving Quality and Relevance‣ Strategic Goal 3: Internationalization of Mauritian Tertiary Education‣ Strategic Goal 4: Enhancing Research and Innovation‣ Strategic Goal 5: Strengthening Governance and Ensuring Sustainability

CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON STRATEGY PAPER

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At the opening ceremony of the Consultative Workshop, the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, Hon. Dr. R. Jeetah highlighted the government’s commitment to give every young person the chance to pursue higher education and to provide opportunities to students from Africa and other regions to study in Mauritius.

The workshop was attended by around 100 participants from ministries, parastatal bodies, professional bodies and private organizations. It ended with a series of proposals made by participants and which would be incorporated, to the extent possible in the Strategy Paper. The strategy will be followed by an Action Plan with time frame for implementation once approval of the Government is obtained.

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At a meeting which Dr. The Hon. Prime Minister had with Prof. Huber, Nobel Laureate, the latter recommended that Mauritian young researchers could participate in the Lindau Nobel Laureates Meeting held annually. At the request of Dr. The Hon. Prime Minister, the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research & Technology contacted the Lindau Nobel Laureates Meeting Council. It signed a MOU with the Council and has now become an academic partner of the council. Following a public call for applications, three nominations were submitted to the Lindau Nobel Laureates Meeting Council, which has selected two young Mauritian researchers, namely Ms. Naziah Bibi Jaufeerally (MPhil/PhD Student at the University of Mauritius) and Ms. Aazraa Oumayyah Pankan (MEng Chemical Engineering Student at the University of Nottingham, Malaysia) to attend the meeting, scheduled to be held from 30 June to 5 July 2013 in Lindau, Germany.

The eligibility criteria for this year’s meeting were as follows:‣ They are under 35 years of age;‣ They study, graduate or have graduated in Chemistry or related disciplines;‣ They can provide records of distinctly above-average academic achievements; and‣ They can provide at least 1 letter of recommendation.

The Lindau Nobel Laureates meeting, which aims at bringing together young scientists from all over the world, is held annually to allow scientists to meet and interact with Nobel Laureates. This a unique opportunity for young scientists to meet Nobel laureates and to interact with them.

LINDAU NOBEL LAUREATES MEETING: TWO MAURITIAN RESEARCHERS SELECTED

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The African Union Commission has signed with Hult International Business School a Corporate Education Sponsorship agreement of 20% on each 2013 program fee to all African Union Commission employees, their family members, and to all African Union member states for the following:‣ 2-year part-time Executive MBA‣ 1-year full-time MBA‣ 1-year full-time Master Programs‣ Bachelor of International Business Administration

The offer is subject to admissions criteria and seat availability, and it is valid for new applications for the September 2013 intake. To avail the 20% sponsorship and further information, African citizens are encouraged to register their interest through www.hult.edu/corporate (select “African union Commission” from the drop-down menu) or contact Hult International Business School (Email: stella.munday-teut@hult .edu) or the Afr ican Union Commission (Emai l : skamedomguia@african-union.org).

Hult International Business School is currently ranked #1 for International Experience and #3 for International Business by the Financial Times, as well as #21 for best business school in the U.S. and #31 in the world by the Economist.

CORPORATE EDUCATION SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE AFRICAN UNION COMMISSION & HULT INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS SCHOOL

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The Board of Investment (BOI) organized the second edition of the Mauritius International Knowledge Investment Forum (MIKIF) on 18th and 19th of February 2013 at the Hennessy Park Hotel in Ebene. Dr. The Honourable Rajesh Jeetah, Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology and Dr. The Honourable Vasant K. Bunwaree, Minister of Education and Human Resources made the key speeches on 18 and 19 February, respectively. The two-day conference attracted more than 350 delegates and saw the participation of 40 speakers including more than 20 international speakers from UK, France, India, South Africa, Australia, Singapore, Kenya, UAE and Pakistan, amongst others.

MIKIF 2013

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BOI has made of MIKIF an annual event to showcase investment opportunities and trends in the education sector and the next forum will be held during the second week of February of 2014.

MIKIF 2013 highlighted the emerging trends in the education sector, the best practices and the challenges of executive education, human resource development and capacity building and the growing importance of technical and vocational training. The forum was also marked by dedicated sessions on international student recruitment and on developing the right ecosystem to encourage investment in education.

MIKIF 2013 provided a networking and business development platform where prominent institutions shared their views and experiences, and discussed about potential collaboration with local institutions and the private sector. Through the interest expressed by participants, there is a pipeline of some 10 investment projects which has been created following organization of MIKIF. Interestingly, Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) from Australia has recently signed a MOU with the University of Mauritius for an exchange programme for students and faculty.

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INDUCTION FOR LAW PRACTITIONERS VOCATIONAL COURSE

Launched in November 2012 under the aegis of the Faculty of Law and Management of the University of Mauritius, the Centre for Professional Legal Studies (CPLS) is offering a Law Practitioners Vocational Course to prepare students who intend to pursue careers in any of the three streams (attorney, barrister, or notary) of legal practice in Mauritius. An induction session was launched for the first batch of 120 students on Monday 25 February 2013 by the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, Hon. Dr. R. Jeetah and the Attorney General, Hon. Mr. Yatindra Nath Varma.

The course has been developed in close collaboration with the State Law Office and members of the legal profession, and is in compliance with The Law Practitioners (Amendment) Act 2011 (Act No. 30 of 2011). After completion of the Vocational Course, students will obtain a Certificate of Attendance from the University of Mauritius and be able to take part in the vocational examinations conducted by the Council for Vocational Legal Education in order to be qualified as a professional attorney, barrister, or notary.

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The opening ceremony of the National Forum on Youth and Entrepreneurship was held at Paul Octave Wiehe Auditorium in Reduit on 31 January 2013. Organized jointly by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the University of Mauritius and other stakeholders, this event focused on the important issues of youth entrepreneurship and innovation. The objectives of the forum was to enable fruitful interactions between the youth and the major stakeholders in the field of entrepreneurship, and to regroup under one roof all service providers in entrepreneurship so that they showcase to young people the services they offer.

NATIONAL FORUM ON YOUTH AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

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National Forum on Youth and Entrepreneurship held at Octave Wiehe Auditorium on 31 January 2013

The Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, Hon. Dr. R. Jeetah, pointed out that youth entrepreneurship will lead to a new generation of creative people, with innovative ideas, to capture new markets, and that the Government of Mauritius is committed to removing barriers to innovation, especially for the youth of this country and to accelerating the exploitation of new technologies.

Around 600 young people representing a cross-section of the youth population participated in this forum.

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M A U R I T I U S I N T E R N A T I O N A L UNIVERSITY, CAREER & JOB EXPO

The Mauritius International University, Career and Job Expo 2013 organized by the Rotary Club of Grand Bay, was held from 15th to 17th February 2013 at the Swami Vivekananda International

Convention Centre at Pailles. The Expo included the participation of over 80 public and private tertiary education institutions from Mauritius, as well as from countries such as Reunion Island, France, England, Canada, United States, Australia, India, China and Malaysia. The expo was targeted towards students completing their secondary education, as well as parents and the public in general.

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COMMUNIQUE FROM

MINISTRY OF HEALTH & QUALITY OF LIFE

Eligibility Criteria to be met prior to proceeding for a diploma in medicine or a diploma in dentistry for students wishing to be subsequently registered as doctors or dentists in Mauritius

The Public is hereby informed that the Medical and Dental Council Acts have been amended by the Economic and Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2012. A person enrolling on a course leading to a diploma in medicine or a diploma in dentistry, who wishes to be subsequently registered to practice medicine or dentistry in Mauritius, shall produce, prior to embarking on a diploma in medicine or a diploma in dentistry, a certificate that he has passed at one sitting any 3 subjects at Advanced ‘A’ Level (or its equivalent) with a minimum of 21 points, based on the following scale (or such equivalent scale as may be approved by the Councils on the recommendation of the Ministry responsible for the subject of education) –

The above amendments are in force as from 01 January 2013. However, these measures do not apply to a person who has already enrolled on a course leading to a diploma in medicine or a diploma in dentistry prior to 01 January 2013.

07 January 2013

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A Level Grade A Level PointsA+ 10A 9B 8C 7D 6E 4

MINISTER JEETAH’S VISIT TO UNIVERSITE DE LIMOGES

Honourable Rajeshwar Jeetah was in Limoges from 10-12 February following an invitation from Mrs. Helene Pauliat, President of the University of Limoges, for the signing of a framework agreement between the University of Limoges and the Université des Mascareignes. The framework agreement defines the nature and terms of the collaboration between the two universi t ies with respect to structur ing governance, training and research. Under this

agreement, students of the Université des Mascareignes will be entitled to a joint diploma/degree with the Université de Limoges and academic staff of Université des Mascareignes will be provided training to upgrade their skills and qualifications.

On the recommendation of the Université de Limoges, Dr. P. Guillon has been appointed as Director General of the Université des Mascareignes to establish programmes and structures and promote research. Dr. Guillon, who has extensive experience in the academic sector and research assumed duty in March 2013.

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Dr. the Honourable Minister, Rajeshwar Jeetah visited UK from 13 to 16 February to hold discussions with UK Universities on various areas of collaboration. His visit to Imperial College was facilitated by Professor Reetoo Banarsee, Mauritian National who is a public Health Consultant at the college. He met Professor Nick Buenfeld, Head of Department of Concrete Structures and Mr. Colin Kerr, Departmental Operations Manager of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Professor Buenfeld agreed to the proposals to offer Masters Courses in Civil Engineering. Further discussions will be held with the local public institutions.

He had working sessions with the Head of the Department of Primary Care & Public Health and his team, namely Professor Elio Riboli, Head – School of Public Health and Director Interventional Public Health Programme, Imperial College, Professor Azeem Majeed, Head of the Department of Primary Care and Public Health and Professor Salman Rawaf, WHO Collaborating Centre for Public Health Education and Training. The Imperial Medical team agreed, in principle, to collaborate and share their expertise with the Mauritian Universities for the setting up of a Centre for Research in Diabetes in Mauritius.

A conference on Primary Care and Public Health will be held in Mauritius in October 2013 with the collaboration of the Imperial College. The Honourable Minister was also conferred the title “Senior Research Fellow” by the Imperial College, London.

Moreover, the Honourable Minister visited the Central Saint Martins College of Arts and Design, which has an amazing innovative campus worth £ 260 M with over 4500 students and workshops and studios for Jewellery, textiles, graphic, ceramic and fashion designs and digital media. Dr. Jo Wheeler, Director of International Development agreed to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for consultancy services and tutors to be provided to the Fashion and Design Institute in Mauritius.

Furthermore, the Minister also had a meeting with Professor Andrew D. Hamilton, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford and Mr. Luke Seamone, Strategy Officer, International Strategy Division. There are around 20, 000 students at the University including about a third of foreign nationals (including nine from Mauritius). Nearly 41% of the academic staff are foreigners. The Vice-Chancellor mentioned that they can explore areas of collaboration of mutual interest to both parties and

HONORABLE MINISTER’S VISIT TO UK

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as Oxford University is well known for research in medical and health-related fields, it can work in partnership with our institutions to undertake research in fields of Diabetes and other diseases.

Honourable Jeetah also had a meeting with Professor Mark Mc Carthy, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism who leads the diabetes research group (OCDEM) and agreed to support the initiatives for research on diabetes in Mauritius. He also met with Dr. Abir Al-Tabba, Reader in Geotechnical Engineering, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, who might form part of the jury panel for the Best Scientist Award organised by the Mauritius Research Council, depending on her availability.

The Honourable Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, Dr. Rajeshwar Jeetah met with Professor Banarsee, from Imperial College, UK together with representatives from the World Health Organisation, University of Mauritius, Ministry of health and Quality of Life, Open University of Mauritius and the University of Technology Mauritius.

Professor Banarsee made an exposé of the UK model and informed the committee that this model is unique in itself as it is in-service training whereas the US and French model are more service and academic led. Thus, it was suggested that it would be more appropriate for Mauritius to combine clinical practice with academic training. This course is also meant for General Practitioners who wish continue with further studies in the Medical field.

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MEETING WITH PROF. BANARSEE (IMPERIAL COLLEGE)

BUSINESS FACILITATION MEETING

A Business Facilitation Meeting was held at the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research & Technology on 24 January 2013 to discuss about procedures for the development of the knowledge sector. The Board of Investment highlighted issues such as insurance for international students, student accommodation and procedures for the setting up of foreign universities of international repute.

The Business Facilitation committee has the task of identifying bottlenecks faced by the business community and recommend policies to address them.

The committee include the public and private stakeholders. It is expected that implementation of these reforms will not only bring substantive improvement in the ranking of the country in the Doing Business Report but a clear process for the obtention of necessary permits.

COURTESY CALLS

Representatives of the City School, Pakistan

The Minister met Dr. Uzma Javed, Director Department of Professional Development, and Dr. Farzana, Chief Executive Office, both from The City School, Pakistan accompanied by a representative from the Board of Investment. They were in Mauritius in the context of the Mauritius International Knowledge Investment

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H.E. N. N. NOKWE, SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COMMISSIONERThe Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, Hon. Dr. Rajeshwar Jeetah received the South African High Commissioner, Her Excellency Mrs. N.N. Nokwe on January 4, 2013. The South African High Commissioner expressed the interest for t h e s i g n i n g o f a M e m o r a n d u m o f Understanding (MOU) between Mauritius and South Africa in the fields of Higher Education, Science, Technology and Research. A draft MOU has already been sent to South Africa for consideration.

Delegation from Kenya & India

The Minister met a delegation from India and Kenya, accompanied by a representative of Board of Investment. The delegation was in Mauritius in the context of the Mauritius International Knowledge Investment Forum 2013.

H.E. Shari Villarosa, US Ambassador in Mauritius

Her Excellency Shari Villarosa, the newly appointed United States Ambassador in Mauritius, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister in December 2012 to discuss cooperation in the Tertiary Education sector.

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Prof. Pelayo, Vice-President of the Universite de Lille 2The Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology met Professor Pelayo, Vice-President of the Université de Lille 2, during his visit to Mauritius from February 7, 2013 to February 10, 2013. The purpose of his visit was to look into the problems encountered by students of Ecole Louis Pasteur enrolled with Université de Lille 2.

During his visit, Professor Pelayo also had consultations with the students, parents, the Tertiary Education Commission, the University of Mauritius and Dr. Baligadoo whereby he proposed to submit his recommendations within one week.

A Unique Learning Experience

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The Budget 2013 made provision for a new scholarship scheme for 50 deserving African students. The modalities of the Scholarship Scheme have been worked out, and African students of the following 21 countries can avail themselves of this scheme: Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana, Ghana, Nigeria, Madagascar, Seychelles, Rwanda, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Angola, Namibia, Republic of Congo, Gabon, South Sudan, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Comoros.

The Scholarship makes provision for Rs. 100,000 (USD 3,205 approx.) yearly towards meeting tuition fees and related course costs, and an all-inclusive monthly living allowance of Rs. 8,300 (USD 266 approx.). International air travel (economy class student fare) by the most economical route will also be provided to the beneficiaries at the start and end of the studentship.

To be eligible for this studentship, students must have secured a conditional offer in a course at undergraduate degree level at a University in Mauritius. Guidelines for the Mauritius-Africa Scholarships 2013, as well as the application form, are available for download on: http://www.studymauritius.info/Scholarships.aspx

SCHOLARSHIPS TO 50 DESERVING AFRICAN STUDENTS

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MOU BETWEEN UNIVERSITY O F M A U R I T I U S A N D CANBERRA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

The University of Mauritius and the Canberra Institute of Technology signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Wednesday 20 February 2013, establishing a framework for cooperation

on students and academic staff exchanges, joint research projects, identification of common mutually tangible objectives as well as capacity building for public officials from Mauritius and the African region. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Hon. Dr. A. Boolell, the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, Hon. Dr. R. Jeetah, and the High Commissioner of Australia to Mauritius, Her Excellency Ms. Sandra Vegting were present at the ceremony.

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OPEN DAYS AT UNIVERSITY OF MAURITIUS

Open days held at the University of Mauritius held on 14, 15 and 18 February 2013 attracted thousands of students. HSC school leavers intending to pursue studies at the University of Mauritius have been provided with first-hand information and guidance on the wide range of programmes offered for Academic Year 2013- 2014.

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At the Africa Education Leadership Awards Ceremony held on 12 December 2012 at Le Meridien Hotel, the University of Mauritius has obtained the following:

(a) Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education, and

(b) Award for Best Educational Institute in Agriculture.

AFRICA EDUCATION LEADERSHIP AWARDS CEREMONY

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F A S H I O N & D E S I G N INSITUTE GRADUATION CEREMONY

The Graduation Ceremony of the Fashion & Design Institute was held on Friday 7th December 2012 at 16h00 in the Auditorium o f M G I . T h e n u m b e r o f graduates in the respective fields is as follows: Around 300 guests graced the function which ended at around 18h00.

M O U B E T W E E N INSTITUTE OF APPAREL MANAGEMENT ( INDIA) A N D T H E FA S H I O N & DESIGN INSTITUTE

Dr. Darlie Khosy from the Institute of Apparel Management (IAM), India,

operating under the aegis o f A p p a r e l E x p o r t Promotion Council (AEPC) a n d M r s . S a d h n a Juwaheer, Director of Fashion & Design Institute h a v e s i g n e d a M e m o r a n d u m o f Understanding on the 30th J a n u a r y 2 0 1 3 a t L e

Labourdonnais Hotel. The aim of this Memorandum of Understanding is to

provide a framework within which they will seek to develop a long-term collaborative relationship.

SCHOOL PRESENTATIONS BY FASHION & DESIGN

INSTITUTE

The Fashion & Design Institute h a s b e e n p l a n n i n g t o d o

presentations in secondary schools to present the institution and the different courses offered. The target audience is School Certificate and Higher School Certificate students

mainly in the following subjects: Art & Design, Design & Communication, Design & Technology, Design & Textile, and Fashion & Fabrics. These presentations can be a helpful platform to guide students in their future career orientation. Around 25 colleges responded positively to the invitation. Schools visited include: Quartier Militaire College, St Esprit (Riviere Noire), La Gaulette SSS, Phoenix SSS.

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OPEN WORKSHOPS

The Fashion & Design Institute has organized different open workshops throughout the island to create awareness and make the institution

known to the public in general. The institution was present at the following: Bagatelle (9th February),

Mahebourg Waterfront (11th February), Air Mauritius Centre (15th and 16th February), VIP Commercial Centre Flacq

(16th February), Centre Commercial du Vieux Moulin (17th February).

MAHATMA GANDHI INSTITUTE: NEW PROGRAMME OF STUDIES

FOR 2013

The Mahatma Gandhi Institute is planning to introduce new programmes of studies due to start in August 2013. These include part-time Master’s level programmes in Telegu, Modern Chinese, Migration & Diaspora Studies, and Performing Arts (Bharata Natyam), as well as a full-time Diploma and Bachelor programme in Advertising & Visual Communications.

FUND RAISING: ETOILE DU BERGER

The Faculty of Social Studies and Humanities (FSSH) club and societies of the University of Mauritius gathered to organize a fund raising and collect of non-perishable foods to be distributed among orphanages and other child care associations. A c t i v i t i e s w e r e organized on the c a m p u s t o welcome these children.

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OPEN DAYS AT FASHION & DESIGN INSTITUTE

The annual open day of the Fashion & Design Institute was held from 28th February to 2nd March 2013. Students of the upper secondary colleges and members of the public were given an overview of the different courses offered at the institution and the opportunity to have hands-on-experience in the different workshops. At the

opening ceremony Hon. Dr. R. Jeetah, Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology placed emphasis on the need for creativity and innovation. He announced that the Fashion & Design Institute Act will shortly be amended to give the institute awarding powers. About 1000 visitors were registered.The Open University of Mauritius has recently made public all its programmes on offer. The deadline for the application was set for 06 March 2013, but extended by two days to grant opportunities for late applicants to complete their procedures.

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FIRST INTAKE AT OPEN UNIVERSITY OF MAURITIUS

Delivering qualifications ranging from undergraduate to doctorates degrees, the Open University is attracting applicants from a wide range of backgrounds due to its flexible nature.

A PhD applicant, Ms D Kanhye has much expectation from the Open University, saying that “I love studying. Until today I have completed a Masters in English and Cultural Studies at UoM, and I think that doing a PhD at the Open University will be very challenging. I am sure that the Open University will give its best!”

Applying for an MBA in Educational Leadership at the Open University, Ms. S Joypaul, who is also an Educator, says that “I find the environment so far very pleasant and suitable for further learning. The facilities offered in terms of payment are really encouraging and motivating. I believe that the Open University academic staff will deliver the goods…”

The Open University of Mauritius will be ready for its next intake soon, but in the meantime, the freshly registered learners will go through a special induction session to obtain a complete exposure to the regulations and facilities of the university while also discovering their responsibilities in a relatively innovative learning environment.

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R E M I S E D E D I P LO M E : C E N T R E D ’ E T U D E S SUPERIEURES OF MCCI

The Graduation Ceremony of the Centre D’Etudes Superieures of the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry was held on Monday 17th December 2012 for about 100 students. The Centre offers a number of courses in collaboration with the French Ministry of National Education, Universite de la Reunion, IAE de Poitiers and most recently, the prestigious Sciences Po d’Aix. The Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research & Technology, Hon. Dr. R. Jeetah was present at the function.

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E N D O F Y E A R PA R T Y: THEME ‘SURVIVAL PARTY’

By tradition, the Students’ Union of the University of Mauritius has been organizing the end of year party (EOY) on the campus to mark the transit from one calendar year to another –Around 3000 students joined in the end of year party for 2012, which had as theme “Survival Party”.

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For the every first time, the Engineering Society of the Un ive rs i t y o f Maur i t i us (Affiliated to the Students’ Union) has organized the C h e s s W i z a r d Competit ion in the Students Center on the university campus, o p e n e d t o a l l students. They were e n c o u r a g e d t o cha l l enge and tes t themselves among their friends and other students. The competition provided a platform to students for extra- curricular activities.

The Awake Group of the University of Mauritius (club affiliated to the S tuden t ’s Un ion ) has a l w a y s been for t h e promotion of e q u i t y and culture. For t h e i r r e c e n t activity – C u l t u r e Sharing – hundreds of students participated i n organizing this show w h e r e t h e theme was to promote the culture of our community and to respect each other irrespective of religious belief.

With the aims of promoting engineering and technical field among students and for allowing students to have a peek at the world of work o f t o m o r r o w , t h e Engineering Society of t h e U n i v e r s i t y o f Mauritius has actively b e e n o r g a n i z i n g different field related skill development sessions, talks and seminars, among which are: How to win your interview, Mobile Apps by Microsoft, Health and Safety, Safety at work, First Aid session, and others.

CHESS WIZARD COMPETITION

CULTURE SHARING

TALKS BY ENGINEERING SOCIETY

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RESEARCH, SCIENCE &

TECHNOLOGY

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AWARD CEREMONY: TRAINING COURSE ON RESEARCH METHODOLOGY & POSTGRADUATE AWARD CONFERENCE

The Mauritius Research Council in collaboration with the University of Mauritius; the University of Technology, Mauritius and the Mauritius Institute of Health, organized an MQA-Approved course on Research Methodology.  This course was developed to provide an overview of how to design and conduct effective research studies and was attended by 150 participants from 50 institutions (public and private).

In this context, a certificate award ceremony for the successful participants of the Research Methodology Course was held on Thursday, 13th December 2012 at 12:30 hrs at Level 1, Cyber Tower 1, Cybercity, Ebène.

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CONSULTATIVE MEETING ON EXPERIMENTAL WHEAT CULTIVATION

Growing concern over the food security issue in Mauritius has led the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology, with the collaboration of the Mauritius Research Council, to undertake a feasibility project on wheat cultivation in Mauritius from May 2012 to December 2012. The results have been promising – an average yield of 4 t/ha of wheat grains were obtained with all six varieties under study. The wheat crop reached maturity 90 days after planting. Most varieties had high protein content and a high gluten index.

The next step of this project is to go on large scale plantation. To this effect, a half-day consultative meeting on experimental wheat cultivation with relevant stakeholders was held on Thursday 31 January 2013 at the Mauritius Research Council. The objectives of the Consultative Meeting were to plan a road map for large scale wheat cultivation in Mauritius and also to identify and define the role of the various stakeholders involved in this project. As a result of the meeting, there has been interest shown by a number of growers to contribute to the pre-commercial phase of the wheat cultivation.

It is expected that the next phase of wheat cultivation will start in April 2013. The harvest is expected to start in September 2013.

OUTREACH ACTIVITIES IN RODRIGUES

The Mauritius Research Council organized a Research and Science Outreach Session in collaboration with the Commission for Education of the Rodrigues Regional Assembly at the Mon Plaisir Cultural and Leisure Centre on the 14th February 2013. Six secondary schools participated in this activity.

The purpose of the Research and Science Outreach activity was to raise awareness on the concepts of research in secondary schools, thereby, developing the required interest and motivation in young minds to undertake research.

A total of 325 students along with 6 Teachers were present and had interactive encounters with representatives of the MRC.

SKY OBSERVAT ION AT POUDRE D’OR

More than 400 people from Poudre D’Or Village and neighboring regions gathered at the Poudre D’Or Community Centre on the evening of 25 January 2013 to participate in the sky observation programme organized by the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre (RGSC).

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SCIENCE WEEK AT ROSE BELLE

The Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre in collaboration with the Mauritius Research Council, the Grand Port District Council and the

Ministry of Tertiary Education S c i e n c e R e s e a r c h a n d

Technology, launched the first edition of the National Science Week at Rose-Belle on Thursday 07 and Friday 08 February 2013. The science week aims at showcasing the practical importance of Science and Technology in various sectors of the Mauritian economy.

The launching was preceded with a defile in the streets of Rose-Belle, to raise awareness on the importance of Science and Technolgy. The Science Week was then launched in the presence of Dr the Hon. R. Jeetah, Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology and Hon. S. Mootiah, Minister of Civil Service.

Around 28 ministries and institutions dealing with science participated in the exhibition and displayed their respective technologies to the public. Professionals from various fields such as Oceanography, Medical Sciences, Environment, Biotechnology, Information Technology, Agriculture, etc. explained to the visitors the application of science in our daily life. The Tertiary educational institutions gave a glimpse of the courses that they offer to students. Parallel to the exhibition, several activities was organized by the RGSC

including Science Quiz Competition, Magic Show by Ustaad Raja Junior and Kid’s Space.

On both days, the Science Week was visited by around 2400 visitors.

List of Participating Institutions: Aadicon Biotechnologies Ltd, Blood Donors Association, Ministry of Agro-industry, (Animal, Horticulture, Entomology, Forestry Department), Ministry of Health (Vector Biology, Nuclear Medicine, Health Labora tor y, San i ta r y ) , Maur i t ius Hear t Foundation, Mauritius Research Council, Ministry

of Environment and Sustainable Development, Mauritius Standard Bureau, Mauritius Film Development C o r p o r a t i o n , A R E U , M a u r i t i u s Oceanography Institute, Ministry of Fisheries, Water Resources Unit, Cent ra l E lec t r ic i t y Board , JSS

academy, University of Technology Mauritius, Open University, Fashion and Design Institute, Traffic Branch, Road Safety Unit, Government Fire Services, National Computer Board and the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre.

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R G S C L A U N C H E S 3 COMPETITIONS

In January 2013, the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre launched three competitions destined to students of Mauritius and Rodrigues: the Science Adventure 2013, the Rodrigues Science Challenge 2013 and Science Through Colours 2013.

Science Adventure 2013 and Rodrigues Science Challenge launched in January

Science Adventure 2013 and Rodrigues Science Challenge 2013 are project based competitions aimed at primary and secondary school students of Mauritius and Rodrigues respectively. These competitions will provide students with the opportunity to investigate issues related to science and technology using the scientific method. They can opt for one of the following themes: Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Climate Change, Energy, Environment, Health, Inventions and Discoveries in Science, Marine Science,

Mathematics, Maurice Ile Durable, Natural Resources, Physics and Technology.

Students were invited to form teams of a maximum of 4, and could register into one of the following categories:

‣ Category 1: Primary – Standard 4 and 5

‣ Category 2: Lower Secondary –Form 1,2 and 3

‣ Category 3: Upper Secondary – Form 4, 5 and Lower 6.

The Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre has already received 240 project proposals for the Science Adventure 2013. A screening of entries will be carried out and the best projects will be retained

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Working Session for TeachersThe RGSC organised a working session with Educators and Headmasters of Primary Schools in Mauritius on 29 January 2013 and with Educators both Primary and Secondary schools in Rodrigues on 15 February 2013. The modalities of the competition were discussed and guidelines were given to educators to encourage participation in the competition.

for the finals. Finalists will display their projects to the public in June 2013 at the RGSC.

All the Prizes for Science Adventure 2013 and Rodrigues Science Challenge 2013 are being sponsored by the Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd.

Science Through Colours – launched in February 2013

For the second consecutive year, RGSC is inviting students of Form I, II and III to develop their creative thinking skills and to explore scientific themes through drawing and painting. This competition entitled ‘Science Through Colours’ is fully sponsored by the Indian High Commision and the Indira Gandhi Centre Indian Culture. The theme chosen for this year is ‘Mathematics of Planet Earth’. In February 2013, secondary school students around the island have registered for the competition and they will be invited at RGSC for an ‘On the spot’ Drawing competition on 28 and 29 March 2013. This will be followed by a prize Giving Ceremony.

The theme chosen for Science through Colours 2013 is “Mathematics of Planet Earth”

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Study Mauritius Office, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research & Technology

Level 11, Wing B, Cyber Tower 1,Ebene, Republic of Mauritius

T: (230) 454 1450 | F: (230) 468 1440 | studymauritius@mail.gov.mu | www.studymauritius.infowww.facebook.com/studymru | www.twitter.com/studymru

Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science, Research & TechnologyLevel 11, Wing B, Cyber Tower 1,

Ebene, Republic of MauritiusT: (230) 454 1450 | F: (230) 468 1440 | tertiary@mail.gov.mu | tertiary.gov.mu