A group of students from Belonie secondary school are availing of their school holidays to learn about architecture in a workshop.
The different topics of this five-day forum are culture and tradition, communication, definition of success, identity, society, local sustainability and finally the translation of these topics into contemporary space and architecture.
For the first two days students did an exercise on how to create space and learned about the definition of space, followed by the design of a small house which will translate the rich Creole culture and tradition into a contemporary building of the 21st century against the background of the topics mentioned earlier.
Present during the opening ceremony on Monday were the Minister for Social Affairs, Community Development and Sports Vincent Meriton, head teacher Medge Nancy, representatives from the districts, teachers, students and parents.
The organiser of the workshop, Michael Schwarz, explained from his point of view the differences of staying as a tourist here or staying and working here. When working here one realizes that ‘Paradise’ has the same challenges as other countries have.
He is convinced that when you work in a foreign country you have to get adapted to the culture and society of this country and one has to do something for the sake of the country.
“This was one of the main ideas to make this workshop happen,” he said.
In his speech he highlighted the challenge for young people to stay active and not to fall into the trap of alcohol and drugs.
“The risk can be reduced when young people are motivated to do something with which they can express their personality which then leads to self confidence and within setting the right personal goals,” he said.
He thanked all parties involved in the preparation of this workshop and expressed his special appreciation to Minister Meriton for his ongoing support and enthusiasm to make this event for young people happen.
Minister Meriton in his remarks highlighted the need and the personal will to work hard to reach personal success and a positive standing in the society.
“Without hard work nothing can be achieved which is my advice for the participants not just in this workshop but for life in general,” he said.
He informed the gathering that the results of the work will be exhibited in October at the National Arts Gallery in Victoria during the Festival Kreol. At that time students will be given certificates for their involvement as well.
Source : Seychelles NATION
In a forecast he highlighted the idea that this kind of workshop in the future should not focus on arts or architecture only, but as well as sports, music and other kinds of activities young people are interested in.
He finally thanked the school and Mr Schwarz for their efforts in making this event happen.
The workshop ends today.