February 25 2011 -- Children in Seychelles are very well looked after, and this country has what it takes to be a world leader in childcare.

A professor from the United States who travels to many countries helping to improve children's welfare said this after calling on Vice-President Danny Faure at State House yesterday.

Dr Sharon Lynn Kagan, a professor at Yale and Columbia universities, said: "I have visited so many countries and when I get home my heart is very heavy because the situations I see are very difficult.

"But when I leave Seychelles I go home with a very light heart, a very joyous and optimistic heart because I think you are doing a wonderful job on behalf of children and families.

"There is no place I have been to with a health provision and crèche services that are so fine."

Dr Kagan said she is very optimistic about the leadership of President James Michel and his government, and their ability to work together to make Seychelles first not only in Africa but in the world.

"I've never said that before - I am very serious about it," she said.

"I have spent my entire professional life working on behalf of young children, especially those who are at risk and in need." 

Dr Kagan said she has recently been working with governments in many countries in Asia and South America.

 

She was here for this week's first Early Child Care and Education Conference, where she was a keynote speaker.

Earlier in the day Mr Faure received Dr Mmantsetsa Marope, who heads the division for basic to higher education and learning at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.