The Secretary General of Seychelles Institute of Culture, Heritage and the Arts visited Liverpool Hope University to discuss how it can help support the island’s creative industries.  

The Faculty of Creative Arts and Humanities hosted David Andre on Monday 24 June, when he had the opportunity to learn more about what Liverpool Hope has to offer and how it could collaborate with the Seychelles’ government to enhance the provision of education in arts and humanities subjects.

During his visit, David toured the Creative Campus, a dedicated space for creative subjects, and met staff from across the University.

In his role as Secretary General, David is responsible for promoting and preserving the island nation’s culture and heritage on a national and international level. He is particularly interested in exploring how Seychelles could utilise the expertise in Hope’s music offering to improve their own music programmes and the careers of Seychellois artists.

Commenting on his visit, David said: “I am very impressed with the infrastructure and resources Liverpool Hope has.

“It gives me hope that we can work together so that our students, artists and cultural agencies can learn from the University.

“There are a lot of knowledgeable people here who can enhance our programmes and help our artists move forward in their career.”

David’s visit was made possible due to the University’s partnership with the Zari Gallery in London.

Georgina Dhillon, the gallery’s founder, is the Editor-in-Chief of Kreol Magazine, which is dedicated to promoting Creole culture across the world. She is also Director of Cross Cultural Programmes of the Seychelles National Institute of Culture Heritage and the Arts.

Following his visit, David now hopes to bring a group of artists to Liverpool Hope to perform the UK premiere of the Seychelles’ national dance, Moutya, which was recognised on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021.

Stephen Davismoon, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Creative Arts and Humanities, added: “We were delighted to welcome David to both Liverpool and the University.

“This visit has enhanced our understanding of the aims and ambitions of the Seychelles Institute of Culture, Heritage and the Arts and how we can support them.

“We look forward to exploring potential opportunities for us to work together to help Seychellois students and artists reach their full potential.”