The newly appointed Director of the Seychelles Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (SIAH), Dr Barry Nourice, says his priority is to reposition the institution as a centre for professional and technical excellence in agriculture.
Dr Nourice’s appointment took effect on 1 December 2025, following what he described as a lengthy recruitment process that began in 2024.
He said he underwent two rounds of interviews, including one with board members of the institution. He added that discussions with the Department of Public Service in February 2025 contributed to delays, citing his leadership role in the political party Movement Lavwa Seselwa (MLS).
Dr Nourice said he was informed in August 2025 that his application had been successful, through a letter dated July. However, he chose to defer accepting the post as he intended to stand as a candidate in the National Assembly elections.
After failing to secure a seat in the October elections, he formally accepted the role.
“I have always had a passion and a vision for this institution,” he said. “It is the only one of its kind in Seychelles, and we must make it the best.”
Shift in focus
Dr Nourice said his immediate aim is to change perceptions of the institute and expand the scope of agricultural education beyond traditional farming roles.
He said agriculture is often viewed narrowly as field work, when in reality it is a broad discipline requiring technical and scientific expertise.
“We need to produce professionals in plant science and livestock rearing,” he said. “The country has farmers, but it lacks qualified technicians who can work with them and manage farms.”
He said the sector requires agronomists, veterinarians, extension officers and other professionals, adding that the institute is currently not producing these skill sets.
Dr Nourice said his goal is to create clear academic pathways for students, so they understand how their training will translate into roles within the sector.
“We want to give students hope, so when they leave the institution they can see a future in agriculture,” he said.
Infrastructure and accreditation
Three weeks into the role, Dr Nourice said he has begun a situational analysis and has already identified several challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, which he said is affecting the quality of education.
He said the institution is also seeking financial support from the Ministry of Finance to obtain professional accreditation, which it currently lacks.
“If the institution is not accredited, support from international partners, including twinning programmes, is limited or impossible,” he said.
Dr Nourice said the accreditation process, overseen by the Seychelles Qualification Authority, typically takes two years, but he hopes to begin the process within the coming year.
Changing perceptions
A former student of the institution, Dr Nourice said he is determined to change the perception that SIAH is only for low-ability learners. He said this narrative has developed over time and must be addressed, starting with parents and career guidance teachers in schools.
“The government needs to invest in this institution and in the wider agriculture sector to reflect innovation,” he said.
He added that with sustained investment, the institute could attract students who choose agriculture as a first career option within the next three years.
Dr Nourice said SIAH operates under a five-year strategic plan, which he intends to lead, ensuring it remains relevant to the sector and responsive to its key stakeholders, particularly farmers. He also said alumni support would be sought to help strengthen the institution further.