President Wavel Ramkalawan, chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet yesterday, Wednesday 9th October in which a number of legal and policy memoranda were approved.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved the necessary steps for Seychelles to accede to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime. This international treaty, adopted by the Council of Europe in 2001, is the most comprehensive agreement addressing crimes committed via the internet and other computer networks. Acceding to the Convention aligns with Seychelles' National Cybersecurity Strategy 2019-2024, ensuring its legal framework is consistent with global standards. Following a comparative analysis conducted with the support of the Council of Europe (COE), minor amendments to Seychelles' Computer Related Crimes Act (CRCA) were recommended to refine definitions, enhance procedural laws, and expand international cooperation.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved proposals to amend the Financial Institutions (Foreign Currency Exposure) Regulations. The amendments aim to strengthen the management of banks' foreign currency exposure by revising key regulatory definitions, enhancing compliance mechanisms, and aligning with international standards. The changes include adjustments to the calculation of net open positions, the introduction of more precise definitions, and modifications to the penalty system to ensure more effective oversight. A one-month transition period will be provided to banks for implementing the revised regulations, promoting a smoother adaptation to the new requirements.
The Cabinet approved the implementation of the revised Seychelles National Qualifications Framework (SNQF) 2024, following a comprehensive review conducted by JET Education Services and the Seychelles Qualifications Authority (SQA). The updated framework addresses existing gaps, introduces new content such as micro-credentials, modernises the qualifications map, and simplifies terminology. This revision aims to align the SNQF with recent local, regional, and international trends, enhancing the quality, recognition, and mobility of Seychelles' qualifications globally. The revised SNQF will support curriculum development, service schemes, and salary grids, ensuring Seychelles’ qualifications remain competitive and meet global standards.
The Cabinet approved the revised National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Regulations, which have been updated to align with the provisions of the Seychelles Qualifications Authority (SQA) Act, 2021 and the revised NQF. The revisions address deficiencies identified during previous implementations, modernise the regulations in line with international standards, and introduce payment provisions to enhance SQA's service delivery. The revision process, which began in December 2022, included extensive research, stakeholder consultations, and validation meetings. The new regulations significantly expand the framework from 17 to 97 regulations, covering areas such as institutional accreditation, programme accreditation, school inspections, and learner protection.
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the rebranding of the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA) to mark its 40th anniversary. The new direction aims to align with Seychelles' National Development Strategy, promoting efficiency, transparency, and a conducive business environment. The changes will be implemented in phases starting from 2024-2025.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved the National Policy on Hazardous Chemicals and Hazardous Waste Management 2024-2029, reinforcing the Government of Seychelles’ commitment to safe and sustainable management of hazardous substances in alignment with its international obligations. This comprehensive policy addresses key gaps in legislative development, enforcement, data management, and capacity building while proposing the creation of a National Chemical and Hazardous Waste Act and a multi-sectoral platform to coordinate efforts among relevant ministries. The policy also highlights the need for local solutions for hazardous waste disposal through investments in technology and public-private partnerships. Its adoption will ensure Seychelles meets the requirements of the Stockholm, Minamata, and Basel Conventions, safeguard public health, and protect the environment.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal for Seychelles to co-organize and host the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA) Regional Africa Chapter Meeting from 28th to 30th October 2024. The event, which will be co-hosted by the Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage, and the Arts through the National Arts and Craft Council and IFACCA, will gather around 20 international delegates from the African region and the IFACCA Secretariat. The meeting aims to address key challenges in the arts and culture sector, revisit policies and strategies, and foster collaboration through presentations and panel discussions.
Relevant Ministries will provide details.