Advanced Food Processing for Community Empowerment _ Award Ceremony at the University of Mauritius

The Farmers in Agriculture, Livestock, Cooperative, Organic,Network (FALCON) Association, in collaboration with the University of Mauritius Faculty of Agriculture, organised an award ceremony on 23rd July 2025 at the Academic Complex, University of Mauritius, to recognise participants who successfully completed a 30-hour "Advanced Food Processing" course. The training program equipped the 35 participants with essential skills in diverse aspects of food processing and production, food hygiene, safe food production, food waste valorisation, processing techniques and product development. 

The event featured distinguished speakers including Associate Professor Dayawatee Goburdhun, the Master of Ceremony for this event, Mr. Gunsham Seeborun (President of FALCON Association), Associate Professor Dr. Joyce Govinden (Dean of Faculty of Agriculture), Professor Sanjeev Sobhee (Vice Chancellor), Dr. The Hon. Arvin Boolell (Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries), and His Excellency Mr. Dharambeer Gokhool (President of the Republic of Mauritius). 

The "Advanced Food Processing" course, conducted in April 2025, was designed for vulnerable family members and women-led food enterprises to enhance their food processing practices and standards for both local and export markets. The training was delivered by resource persons Dr. D. Ramful Baboolall, Associate Professor D. Goburdhun, and Associate Professor S.J. Santchurn, and was funded by the National Social Inclusion Foundation under NSIF project 2024. The initiative received support from key organisations including the National Empowerment Foundation, National Women Entrepreneur Council, National Women's Council, and Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund.

FALCON Association, located at Community Lane, Bois Pignolet, Terre Rouge, can be contacted at 5789 2282 or 249 1560, with additional information available through their email maansaam@yahoo.com and Facebook page. 

Associate Professor D. Goburdhun, Master of Ceremony.

In her speeches, the Master of Ceremony reflected on the proceedings, by saying that the messages shared today paint a vivid picture of a dynamic and collaborative ecosystem dedicated to advancing our agricultural sector. Our university's commitment to inclusivity in higher education, the Minister of Agro Industry's passionate vision, and the tireless efforts of organizations like the Falcon Association, all working in concert, are truly inspiring. She also extended her appreciation to the Dean, Vice Chancellor, participants, press members, Faculty Members, and the Pro VC (Planning and Resources) underscoring the support essential for these vital initiatives to flourish. She thank all for being a part of today event. She concluded by saying that the future of our food security looks brighter when we work together!

Click the link below for the key messages delivered by the various speakers. 

In his opening speech, the President of the Falcon Association delivered several key messages emphasizing the urgent need for a transformed Mauritian Agroindustry.

In her remarks the Dean of the Faculty highlighted the Faculty of Agriculture as a dynamic, historically rich institution that goes beyond teaching. We're actively tackling global challenges like food security through inclusive training and strong partnerships. We're excited to contribute to a sustainable, prosperous future for Mauritius.

In his speech, the Vice-Chancellor of the University laid out key plans for Mauritius's growth, such as how education, innovation, and unity are shaping our country's path forward.

The Hon Minister A. Boolell shared his vision for Mauritius. He talked a big change, building our future on our people, new ideas, and working together, calling on every Mauritian to help create a better nation for everyone.

Have you ever stopped to think about where our food truly comes from, and why it matters so much to our nation's future? In his speech, the President of the Republic of Mauritius shared some insights on just that – reminding us that food security isn't just a buzzword, it's the bedrock of a healthy, thriving Mauritius.