The Seychelles Business Studies Academy (SBSA) is proud to host, for the very first time, the prestigious Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) International Training of Master Trainers. This globally recognised programme, developed by the International Labour Organization (ILO), is being delivered in collaboration with Business Clinics Services Ltd.

This milestone event reflects SBSA’s unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, and its active role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship development both locally and internationally.

Thanks to the steadfast support of our Governing Board Chairperson, Mr. Oliver Bastienne, and the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), four SBSA staff members – Mrs Maria Solin, Mrs Rasika Basnayake, Mr Peter Too and Mr Nicholas Oduor – are already certified ILO trainers since 2020 and have conducted a number of training under both the Start Your Business and Improve Your Business over the past four years. They are now advancing to become ILO-certified Master Trainers. Upon completion of this intensive 10-days training, they will join an elite group of professionals equipped to deliver high-impact entrepreneurship training across the globe.

By hosting this programme, SBSA reaffirms its dedication to empowering educators, fostering innovation, and contributing meaningfully to the global dialogue on entrepreneurship.

We extend our best wishes to all participants for a successful and enriching training journey.

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Seychelles Business Studies Academy’s Director, Josianne Bristol

1. How does the Seychelles Business Academy (SBSA) define and promote a culture of quality assurance across its operations?

The Seychelles Business Studies Academy (SBSA) defines its culture of quality assurance as a continuous commitment to improving educational standards, institutional processes, and stakeholder engagement. This culture is embedded in its operations through structured initiatives and strategic partnerships.

To promote this culture, SBSA has established a Quality Assurance Committee that includes both staff and management members. This committee plays a central role in overseeing internal audits. Members of the committee have undergone training in internal quality auditing, facilitated by the Seychelles Bureau of Standards. This training has equipped them with the skills to develop and apply quality audit tools and instruments, which are essential for enhancing the academy’s quality assurance structures.

Additionally, SBSA aligns its practices with the institutional accreditation action plan, which emphasises areas for improvement and steps taken to reach the recommendations set by the Seychelles Qualifications Authority (SQA). The academy also collaborates with SQA, which conducts accreditation visits and evaluations to ensure SBSA meets national education standards.

Furthermore, SBSA regularly takes part in training workshops run by the SQA. Their hands-on experience and involvement help keep the academy connected to national quality standards, and play a big role in fostering a strong, supportive culture of quality assurance throughout the academy.

2. How has your engagement with the SQA influenced institutional growth or decision-making?

The SBSA’s engagement with SQA has been instrumental in shaping its institutional growth and strategic decision-making. This collaboration has provided a structured framework for academic quality, programme development, and institutional and programme accreditation.

One of the most significant impacts has been the re-accreditation of key diploma programmes, such as the Diploma in Accounting and Finance and the Diploma in Business Management and Administration. These accreditations have enabled SBSA to introduce new, relevant content - such as a local taxation course developed in partnership with the Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC), Digital Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Procurement, as a few examples. These programmes are on offer after receiving SQA’s seal of accreditation, ensuring they met national standards and industry relevance.

Moreover, the SQA’s regulatory oversight has encouraged SBSA to adopt a strategic planning approach that aligns with national education priorities. The academy’s strategic plan includes a robust Monitoring & Evaluation framework, which is directly influenced by SQA’s quality assurance expectations. This has led to more data-driven decision-making, improved resource allocation, and a stronger focus on continuous improvement.

Through regular capacity-building initiatives facilitated by the SQA, SBSA has also enhanced its staff competencies in aspects such as accreditation, credit transfer, alignment of programmes with the NQF and RPL. These engagements have enabled the staff to grow and develop not only competencies and skills but the confidence to engage in decision-making processes.

3. What steps has SBSA taken to align programmes with national and international quality standards?

The SBSA has taken several strategic steps to ensure its programmes meet both national and international quality standards:

• Accreditation by the SQA:
  SBSA works closely with the SQA to ensure all its programmes are accredited and aligned with the Seychelles National Qualifications Framework (SNQF). This ensures that the content, assessment methods, and learning outcomes meet national education standards.

• Integration of Internationally Recognised Programmes:
  SBSA offers qualifications such as the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), a UK-based professional body. These qualifications are globally recognised and ensure that learners receive training that meets international benchmarks.

• Adoption of International Training Modules:
  The academy has incorporated modules from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), such as the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme which is a globally recognised business skills development programme used in over 100 countries and helps learners develop entrepreneurial and financial planning skills; the ABSA ReadyToWork programme, a PanAfrican Flagship programme which incorporates Work Skills, People Skills, Money Skills and Entrepreneurial Skills.

• Programme Development with Industry Input:
  SBSA collaborates with national bodies and industry partners, including all Board members and organisations in programme development through organising Job Analysis Workshops and surveys for industry input. Other organisations, such as the Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC), have also contributed to develop relevant course content, such as a local taxation module. This ensures that programmes are not only academically sound but also industry-relevant.

4. How are learners and staff encouraged to contribute to quality improvement within the institution?

At the SBSA, both learners and staff play an active role in fostering a culture of continuous quality improvement. The academy encourages their involvement through several structured and inclusive mechanisms:

• Quality Assurance Committee Involvement:
  Staff members are directly involved in the Quality Assurance Committee, where they contribute to internal audits and the development of quality assurance tools. This empowers them to take ownership of institutional standards and improvement strategies.

• Learner Feedback Mechanisms:
  Learners are regularly invited to provide feedback through surveys. Their input is used to assess course delivery, teaching effectiveness, and campus services, ensuring that learner voices directly influence institutional decisions.

• Staff feedback:
  Staff are regularly invited to provide feedback to gain insights into their experiences with teaching, learning, and institutional services. This feedback is analysed and used to inform decision-making, enhance service delivery, and foster a responsive and inclusive work environment for the staff.

• Learner Representation in Committees:
  SBSA has a Learner Council in place and the Chairperson represents the other learners on the SBSA Governing Board, allowing learner participation in discussions on campus life and academic policies. This promotes transparency and shared responsibility.

• Self-evaluation;
  Self-evaluation is a structured and reflective process through which the performance, practices, and outcomes of key departments/ strategic priority areas are assessed. This mechanism helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for development, forming the basis for strategic planning and quality enhancement.

• Educational assessment;
  This involves the measurement of learning outcomes, skills, and academic performance through various tools such as examinations, assignments, and projects. The results inform programme development, teaching strategies, and learner support services such as mentorship.

5. What are the benefits of working with the SQA?

Working with the SQA offers several key benefits that contribute to the growth, credibility, and effectiveness of the academy in various ways:

• Programme and Institutional Accreditation and Recognition:
  SQA ensures that academic programmes meet national standards and are aligned with the SNQF. This accreditation enhances the credibility of SBSA’s qualifications, making them more valuable to employers and universities.
  Accreditation and compliance with SQA standards boost SBSA’s reputation, making the academy more attractive in the field.
  
  
• Programme Development Support:
  Through its accreditation processes, SQA provides guidance on programme design, ensuring that programmes are industry-relevant, competency-based, and learner-centered. This has enabled SBSA to introduce new modules, such as local taxation, in collaboration with national agencies.
  
  
• Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement:
  SQA promotes a culture of quality assurance by encouraging institutions to implement internal audits, monitoring frameworks, and staff training. This helps SBSA maintain high standards and continuously improve its operations.
  
  
• Capacity Building and Professional Development:
  SQA facilitates training opportunities for staff in areas such as accreditation processes, RPL implementation, which helps the academy build internal expertise and strengthen governance.
  
  
• Strategic Alignment with National Education Goals:
  By working with SQA, SBSA ensures its programmes and policies are aligned with national development priorities, including employability, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning.

In a beautiful show of unity, kindness, and community spirit, the Seychelles Business Studies Academy, recently carried out a heartfelt donation initiative for the pediatric ward at Seychelles Hospital. This project brought together not only SBSA learners and staff, but also generous individuals from outside the academy who were moved to contribute and make a difference.

Over the course of two days, the SBSA community, with the support of friends, families, and external contributors collected a wide range of thoughtful donations. These included toys, books, snacks, and juice, as well as monetary contributions, which was used to purchase a brand-new television and some character curtains for the ward. The aim was simple: to bring a moment of joy and a touch of comfort to children facing difficult days in hospital.

One of our talented learners brought along his keyboard and performed cheerful music during the handover ceremony, held on Tuesday, 17th June 2025 at 10:30 a.m. His music filled the ward with warmth and smiles; a small gesture with a big impact.

This initiative was made possible thanks to the kind guidance and coordination of Ms. Betty-May Bibi, Internal Corporate Officer at the Ministry of Health. Her support ensured that the donation process met the hospital's needs and ran smoothly from start to finish.

“At SBSA, we are training future business leaders of Seychelle, and when you are a leader, you understand your role in the community, you understand that you are there to give back,” stated Mrs Josianne Bristol, Director of SBSA.

Today’s initiative truly reflected Ms. Josianne’s statement, that real leadership is rooted in service. Our learners showed that they are ready to lead not just in business, but with empathy, heart, and a deep sense of responsibility to those around them.

Present during the handover, Dr. Rose expressed his sincere gratitude on behalf of the hospital and emphasized the importance of the donated items, highlighting how this simple act of giving supported not only the children’s well-being but also their development.

This initiative is a reflection of the values of empathy, responsibility, and the spirit of giving which SBSA holds dear. It was more than a donation, it was a reminder that compassion and community can make a real difference.

SBSA remains hopeful that this marks the beginning of a long-lasting relationship with Seychelles Hospital, and looks forward to future collaborations that continue to uplift and support those in need.

To everyone who contributed, whether from within or beyond our academy, thank you. Your kindness helped turn a small idea into a powerful and meaningful gesture of hope and care.

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The celebration of the Seychelles Business Studies Academy’s (SBSA) 10th Anniversary began on 25th August 2025, marking the start of a journey filled with pride, joy, and reflection. From the very first day, our Media Matrix team brought the celebration to life with daily social media interactions, capturing and sharing memorable moments with creativity and energy. Their dedication ensured that the spirit of the anniversary was felt not just on campus, but also by our wider community online, right up to 5th September.

From that moment on, the academy carried the theme “A Decade of Professional Excellence and Transformation” with a full program of activities that blended service, innovation, creativity, and unity.

A Heart for the Community

On 1st September, we reached beyond our walls and into the heart of the community with a visit to the Anse Royale Elderly Home. Learners and staff carried gifts, shared songs, danced, and spoke words of encouragement to the residents. The smiles we received in return were priceless. It was a reminder that education is not only about books and exams, but also about kindness, service, and humanity.

The Spirit of Entrepreneurship

The next day, 2nd September, SBSA became a hub of innovation with “The Future of Business in Seychelles.” Learners and alumni proudly showcased their businesses, selling products, sharing ideas, and proving that the entrepreneurial spirit at SBSA is alive and thriving. With the support of the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) Team, the event became more than a showcase, it was a glimpse of the bright future ahead, where today’s learners become tomorrow’s business leaders.

Later that day, the torch of wisdom was passed down through mentorship meetups, where President’s Cup, Medal of Academic Excellence and Governing Board awardees through the years sat with learners, sharing their journeys, challenges, and lessons learned. These exchanges left many of us inspired, dreaming bigger than before.

The Power of Words

On 3rd September, the academy echoed with courage and creativity during the Public Speaking Activity. Learners stepped up to the stage, voices trembling at first, but soon growing strong and confident. Parents, lecturers, and friends listened with pride. When prizes were handed out, the applause was not just for the winners, it was for every learner who had the chance to participate.

Innovation and Service Hand in Hand

4th September was a day of impact where we rolled up our sleeves for something bigger than ourselves, a Blood Drive. Learners and staff members came together to donate, turning our celebration into an act of love. Every drop of blood collected was a gift of life, and as we watched volunteers step forward, we were reminded that service is at the core of SBSA’s mission.

A Grand Finale to Remember

Finally, on 5th September, the celebrations reached their peak. The morning began with a Commemorative Assembly that brought together the Ministry of Education, Governing Board members, parents, WBE partners, staff members, and learners. The atmosphere was filled with pride as we sang our academy anthem, unveiled a plaque to mark the anniversary, and honoured those who have been part of SBSA’s journey for ten years or more. The speeches stirred emotions, reminding us how far we have come and how much further we can go.

The day continued with a Talent Show, a spectacular showcase of creativity and passion. From music and dance to drama and art, the stage came alive with SBSA spirit. Every performance was a celebration of not only talent but also unity, family, and the joy of being part of this academy.

As the sun set, the celebrations closed with a Staff Dinner at STA, a well-deserved tribute to the members of staff who have given their hearts to this institution.

More Than a Celebration

Our 10th Anniversary was not just an event, it was a reflection of our identity. It was about community, innovation, courage, service, and creativity. It was about honouring our past while stepping boldly into the future. Most of all, it was about family, the SBSA family that has grown over ten years and will continue to grow in the years to come.

As we look forward, we carry with us the lessons, the laughter, and the memories of this anniversary. Here’s to ten years of excellence and transformation, and to many more decades of opportunities, dreams, and success.

We are SBSA. We are a decade strong. And this is only the beginning.

Zellah Volcere

Media Matrix Chairperson

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The Seychelles Business Studies Academy (SBSA) continues to demonstrate its commitment to community service through its active participation in Academy-organised blood donation campaigns. Over the past two years, the Academy has made remarkable strides in supporting the Seychelles Blood Transfusion Services.

For the period of June 2023 to May 2024, SBSA proudly secured 8th place among participating oganisations, contributing a commendable 40 pints of blood. Building on this momentum, the Academy achieved an even greater milestone in the following year. From June 2024 to May 2025, SBSA climbed to 4th place, with an impressive 52 pints of blood donated.

These achievements reflect the dedication and compassion of SBSA learners and staff, who continue to embody the values of civic responsibility and solidarity. The Academy extends its heartfelt thanks to all donors and encourages continued participation in future blood drives to help save lives across the country. Remember, one pint of blood can save 3 lives! So together let’s save lives by giving hope to those who need it.

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On Tuesday 8th April 2025, TGMI held an insightful session with students from SBSA, aimed at sharing key information on the progression opportunities available through the ACCA pathway. The discussion was supported by staff from both TGMI and SBSA, as well as representatives from Career Progression and Further Studies Division — all coming together to encourage and guide the next generation of accounting professionals. We are pleased to share that, for the first time ever, students who have qualified for a local scholarship, after scoring their requisite 75% or above in their Diploma from SBSA, as well as securing AAT Level 2 qualifications, now have the opportunity to pursue ACCA, starting directly at Diploma Level 3. This significant milestone is made possible through the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in 2024 between TGMI and SBSA, a partnership that is already creating real impact in shaping academic futures.

This initiative not only reflects both Institutions’ commitment to excellence but also plays a crucial role in building national capacity in the accounting and finance field. It opens doors for many aspiring students, creating a clear and structured pathway toward professional growth and international qualifications.

To the students exploring this next step: Thank you for considering TGMI as your learning partner. We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to growing together — one step, one student, and one success story at a time.

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