Yea that's life!
At times very serious n then very funny and very often in-between.
The Chairman of the Water Authority has resigned because of a water shortage problem.But Chairmen do no have direct day-to-day responsibility of implementation .Theirs is more of a policymaking task plus general overall supervision.
Operational and day-to-day managemeny rests with the Executive Management. The Water Authority has a CEO .So why should the Chairman hv to wear the cap?Is ther no accountability for the CEO?Good Governance?
A VVIP had a case against corruption interrupted as he claimed to be unfit health-wise to give evidence before the Court of Law.Then came a much publicised encounter between the CEO of the Corporation where the VVIP was alleged to have got involved in corruption and that very VVIP,who is imputed to have freely given advice and counsel to the CEO.So can the VVIP still claim to be unfit to depone?The DPP( Director of Public Prosecution) has asked the Police to open an investigation .A decision will then be taken by the DPP's office.
So what is the public perception of justice?A two-speed justice ,one for the VVIPs and the other for the common citizen?
The Hawkers in Port Louis now refuse to shift to Pont de Paris facility because the present location where they ply their trade i.e.the much busy Desforges Street.So back to square one as far as the Hawkers' problem in the city Port Louis is concerned?
Well may be that's life .....not much can be done?Or there is still some hope.................
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Unity in Diversity?Bridges or Walls?
Diversity is a fact of our history and our present.It will also b an integral part of our future.
But what is most neeeded for the progress of our nation is UNITY.
Unity is the greatest gift that we can offer to the next generation and our children....Unity 4 a COMMON FUTURE.
The British divided our people and thire Credo was Dividw n Rule.
In 1968 we became independent...a great opportunity to construct our UNITY as a people with a common destiny.
We hv achieved relative stability,tolerance and respect.But we r still too far away from the dream of a United nation.
It needs Statesmen of the stature of SSR to realise such dreams.
To build bridges and not to erect WALLS.......
So that our children can live in peace and harmony>
But what is most neeeded for the progress of our nation is UNITY.
Unity is the greatest gift that we can offer to the next generation and our children....Unity 4 a COMMON FUTURE.
The British divided our people and thire Credo was Dividw n Rule.
In 1968 we became independent...a great opportunity to construct our UNITY as a people with a common destiny.
We hv achieved relative stability,tolerance and respect.But we r still too far away from the dream of a United nation.
It needs Statesmen of the stature of SSR to realise such dreams.
To build bridges and not to erect WALLS.......
So that our children can live in peace and harmony>
Monday, November 1, 2010
POSSIBLE?IMPOSSIBLE?
Life often presents us with numerous situations when we hv 2 decide?
There r things which r possible and doable.There r thoe which r impossible.
Better focus on things which r possble and do them It provides a sense of satisfaction n joy.Positively impacts on mood n morale n personal relationships with others.
When things r 4 impossible...better leave them aside.Failure wil result in frsutration,bitterness n bad mood.
Howz isit with u?
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Hi ..strange.... dharam gokhool on FB
Yea ...found it a lil strange that sm FB friends found it rather unusual that me ,an Ex-Minister is on FB ...with many FB friends
N quite regular in interacting with many of them.
Its a real surprise 4 many ,especially students,when they chat with me so easily.
4 me its all so natural.
My natural professional environment has been ....the University for most of the time....the hub of young people.This has been so 4 over thirty years.
Active politics has alwaz been an extension of my life as an Academic/Educator/Trainer.
I served as Minister between 2005-2010 then I did not stand as a candidate.Many hv asked me the reasons...some day ,all will b revealed.Lets us leave it 2 time.As an Associate Professor of Management,ex-Dean of Faculty of Law n Management,may b I was overqualified!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
But coming bk to me on FB...well Fb is a social network that brings people 2gether.. an ideal forum of ideas,issues,emotions,expectations,frustrations etc etc ...of people ,about people n for people.
Ex-Minister Dharam Gokhool never forgot that behind every politician,VVIP etc,there is alwaz a human being...a simple human being
Many forget this age-old reality. Me,am a human being first,then.....
So when u connect with me next time,just think that u r connecting with another human being ..like u ..n me
Keep in tch n tk cr.Lol!
N quite regular in interacting with many of them.
Its a real surprise 4 many ,especially students,when they chat with me so easily.
4 me its all so natural.
My natural professional environment has been ....the University for most of the time....the hub of young people.This has been so 4 over thirty years.
Active politics has alwaz been an extension of my life as an Academic/Educator/Trainer.
I served as Minister between 2005-2010 then I did not stand as a candidate.Many hv asked me the reasons...some day ,all will b revealed.Lets us leave it 2 time.As an Associate Professor of Management,ex-Dean of Faculty of Law n Management,may b I was overqualified!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
But coming bk to me on FB...well Fb is a social network that brings people 2gether.. an ideal forum of ideas,issues,emotions,expectations,frustrations etc etc ...of people ,about people n for people.
Ex-Minister Dharam Gokhool never forgot that behind every politician,VVIP etc,there is alwaz a human being...a simple human being
Many forget this age-old reality. Me,am a human being first,then.....
So when u connect with me next time,just think that u r connecting with another human being ..like u ..n me
Keep in tch n tk cr.Lol!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
In all directions
Can u believe it...so many things are happening and there is so little time.
On the other hand things seem to be slipping out of control.Why?
We need a sense of direction and control.
Is it the disease of the new millenium?
But who is to blame ?
At the end of the day ,it's US.WE have to be in control So simple.
Dharam
On the other hand things seem to be slipping out of control.Why?
We need a sense of direction and control.
Is it the disease of the new millenium?
But who is to blame ?
At the end of the day ,it's US.WE have to be in control So simple.
Dharam
Friday, April 9, 2010
FOURTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF MEXA 1ST APRIL, 2010
SPEECH BY HON. D.GOKHOOL MINISTER OF INDUSTRY, SCIENCE AND RESEARCH
ON THE OCCASION OF THE FOURTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF MEXA
1ST APRIL, 2010 AT LE SIRIUS, LE LABOURDONNAIS HOTEL PORT-LOUIS
Mr. Ahmed Parkar, Chairman, MEXA
Mrs. Danielle Wong, Director, MEXA
Operators of the Export Oriented Enterprises Sector
Distinguished Guests
Members of Media
Ladies and Gentlemen
A very good morning to all of you. It gives me immense pleasure to be among you on the occasion of the Fourth Annual General Meeting of MEXA. I wish to thank MEXA for giving opportunity to address you.
Last year on this very same occasion, I emphasised the exceptional circumstances through which our economy had to navigate as a result of the global financial and economic crisis. I highlighted the loss of jobs and the negative export growth rate witnessed by the Export Oriented Enterprises (EOE) sector in 2008 and I urged all our private and public sector stakeholders to combine their efforts to chart out the way forward to address the challenges lying ahead.
A year later, I am glad to note that our economy has come out of the worst global economic recession in many decades with minimum adverse impact, achieving a reasonable export performance in 2009 and forging ahead for sustained growth in 2010. Let me seize this opportunity today to pay tribute to the captains of our industry and their employees for this remarkable achievement. I also wish to thank MEXA for its continued support to the business community and for its valuable contribution to our economic development.
Overview of the EOE sector
Ladies and Gentlemen
In spite of the global economic slowdown, the year 2009 has not been unfavourable for the EOE sector with the value of exports recording a positive growth rate of 2.8%. Exports which stood at Rs. 35 billion in 2008 rose to Rs. 36 billion in 2009. The declining trend in employment has also slowed down with EOE labour force standing at a total of about 59,000 as at now. The number of enterprises has stabilised at around 410 with some 36 new entrants. This indicates that our EOE sector still enjoys a high degree of confidence despite the fierce competition from low cost countries.
The Textile and Clothing sub-sector which accounts for 65% of total exports has emerged unscathed of the global financial and economic crisis with a slight increase of 0.1% in export value. This positive performance realised in such a morose international trading environment is an outcome of the new dynamism demonstrated by the textile and clothing sub-sector which is focusing more on quality, creativity, innovation, design, product development and niche marketing. The outlook looks much better this year as our markets gradually come out of recovery. Provisional data available for the months of January and February this year indicate that the value of exports grew by 5.1% compared to corresponding months for last year.
The Fish and Fish preparation sub-sector which employs some 4,000 persons has also witnessed a remarkable growth of 11.5% in 2009 with export of Rs. 7.1 billion as compared to Rs. 6.4 billion in 2008. Two new enterprises have started operations this year. This sub-sector continues to represent high potential for growth and it is important that we intensify our efforts to attract new investment and position Mauritius as a hub in fish processing activities. Information obtained from the seafood operators indicate that year 2010 will be a good year. In fact, exports are expected to increase by another 10% with the seafood enterprises operating at full capacity as a result of stable fish supply.
On the other hand, the jewellery and diamond sub-sector has also recorded positive growth in 2009 with exports to the tune of Rs 2.2 billion as compared to Rs 2.1 billion in 2008. This performance is very encouraging as we know that the luxury goods segment is normally the most affected one in time of recession. The other sub-sectors such as optical goods, toys and sporting goods have performed relatively well in the context of the difficult international environment.
The indicators on our economic performance in 2009 also provide signals that confidence is back after a difficult period. Last year, the economy as a whole has been able to generate 10,000 new jobs and to attract FDI to the tune of Rs 8.5 billion despite the financial crisis. Moreover, the economy’s growth rate is expected to increase to 4.3% this year from the 2.8% registered in 2009. The manufacturing sector is also estimated to pick up in 2010 with a growth rate of 1.7% compared to 0.6% in 2009. On the basis of the performance achieved by the EOE sector in 2009, we firmly believe that 2010 will be a better year for our enterprises with accelerated export growth.
The Textile Forum
Ladies and Gentlemen
The Textile and Clothing sector remains an important pillar of the economy accounting for 4.9 of GDP, 8.9 % of the active labour force, 41.5% of total merchandise exports and 65% of EOE exports. It had to face testing time in 2008 and 2009 with the financial crisis hitting the EU and US, our major export markets.
Enterprise Mauritius (EM) recently organised the Textile Forum to assess the sector with the active participation of the operators of the industry and resource persons from Mauritius and abroad. Specifically, the aims of this forum were to re-examine the key issues facing the sector in the post-crisis era; provide participants with up-to-date insights on trends on the global apparel market, including consumer behaviour, sourcing strategies and evolution of the key markets for Mauritius; and provide a platform to industry operators to brainstorm on the ‘in-factory factors’ that need to be addressed to improve competitiveness. EM is presently finalising a comprehensive report on the Forum and is devising short to medium term Action Plan for the sector. I have to say that we have noted at the forum a high degree of confidence in the sector and the optimism expressed by our operators.
Fashion and Design Institute
Another measure to consolidate and expand the Textile and Clothing sector is the launching of the Fashion and Design Institute in September 2009. The Institute is called upon to provide invaluable support to transform the textile and clothing sector into a fashion industry. It will equally cover design in non-textile sectors such as jewellery, accessories, furniture, and graphics among others. The Fashion and Design Institute aims at developing capacity in design, creativity and innovation to facilitate the movement up the value added of the global value chain. Courses are presently offered at Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Degree levels in Art and Design, Graphic Design and Fashion Textiles. Degree and Masters programmes in Graphic Design, Interior Design and Fashion Design will be delivered in collaboration with British Universities as from September 2010. I am confident that there are a lot of talents which can emerge in this area of exclusive models and high fashion products targeting highly specific niche markets. I believe we can, in the long term, develop a critical mass of such entrepreneurs and propel Mauritius as a regional centre for Fashion and Design.
Other Support Measures
The Government is committed to consolidate and expand the economy and to support the Export Oriented Enterprises sector which provides substantial employment opportunities. The business community is provided with all the necessary conditions to perform better, and to acquire competitive rather than comparative advantages which were based on availability of cheap labour and preferential access.
I would like to stress that to assist our economy to ride over the global economic crisis, Government has put in place the Additional Stimulus Package with an envelope of Rs. 10.4 billion. Within this package, the Saving Jobs and Recovery Programme (SJR), with an outlay of Rs. 3.5 billion, has been of immense help to our enterprises. Under the MASMED Fund, now called the SMSS (Support to the Manufacture and Services Sector) Fund, so far around Rs. 131 million has been spent on schemes designed to develop production and export capability of our enterprises. On the other hand, the MTSP (Mechanism for Transitional Support to the Private Sector) has so far supported 13 companies for an aggregate value of Rs 615m. To enable the acquisition and modernisation of production equipment, enterprises, irrespective of size, are being provided under the three LEMS projects leasing facilities secured by Government. To date, 160 applications have been approved by the various leasing companies for a total loan amount of Rs. 402m. As you can see, Government is committed to support our enterprises to integrate the global value chain and improve their supply side capabilities.
Another measure to support the export enterprises is the setting up of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme (ECIS) which aims at assisting exporters having difficulties in obtaining proper insurance cover to their export sales. COFACE (Compagnie Française D’Assurance pour le Commerce Extérieur) has been selected as the implementing agency for ECIS, and SIC (State Investment Corporation) as the responsible agency. Government has earmarked a sum of Rs. 300 m for this scheme to complement on default claims above the level of primary cover provided by any insurance company. With this scheme in place, the export enterprises can be more aggressive in the market and venture into new export and non-traditional markets as they know that the risks will be mostly covered.
Enterprises themselves now have to demonstrate high competitiveness if they want to survive, forge ahead and improve. Thus, through Enterprise Mauritius, a gamut of measures is put in place to enhance the competitiveness of the EOE sector. These measures are in terms of technology transfer, training and consultancy so as to move upmarket and diversify and to improve capability development. For year 2010, EM has elaborated a programme with an outlay of Rs 340 m to implement its support projects including participation in various trade fairs with a view to consolidate existing markets and penetrate new markets. In particular, around Rs 110m has been earmarked for the textile and clothing sector.
Support from AFD
Ladies and Gentlemen
As you are aware, our country is highly dependent on exports of goods. Exports account for around 30% of our GDP. In order to sustain export development, we have an overall strategy to continuously strengthen the organisational and technical capacity of our support institutions in the export readiness of our economy. In this connection, I would like to mention the grant of Euro 1.5 m that we received last year from Agence Française de Development to implement several projects aiming at building the export capabilities of Mauritius. MEXA itself together with the University of Mauritius has benefited from this source of funding to implement a Logistics Project to build competence in the field of logistics. This project is being carried out in collaboration with the University of Le Havre. I understand that several activities have already been carried out particularly with regard to the training requirements of our operators and the training of trainers and that by completion of the project UoM and MEXA would have acquired the knowledge, tools and techniques to successfully conduct academic and award courses in logistics.
Exchange Rates
MEXA and export enterprises have on a number of occasions voiced concerns about an appreciating rupee which has a bearing on the competitiveness of our products and hence on their profit margin. It is obvious that the rate of exchange of the rupee against major currencies is an important factor influencing exports. But this is not the one and only factor. Operators guided by their own interests would prefer a weak rupee. But Government, having the whole economy in mind, has to balance the interests of exporters with those of other sectors and the consumers. As an open economy we believe that the rupee should reflect the economic fundamentals. And the Government is not insensitive to the plea on our exporters to cushion, wherever possible, against undue volatility of the rupee. In this respect, the Bank of Mauritius has, whenever possible and required, intervened in the market to stabilise the rupee. Thus, the Bank has introduced the Swap Scheme in January this year to hedge against currency fluctuations, and so far some US$ 40 million have been swapped. We have also underscored that enterprises cannot all the time rely on a weak rupee to enhance their competitiveness. Improving productivity, focusing on product development, moving up market and tapping niche markets remain essential conditions to confront competition in the market place.
Sustainable Development
Ladies and Gentlemen
As you are all aware, social compliance is becoming increasingly important whereby our exporters are under considerable pressure from consumers, NGO’s, and trade unions to ensure that their supply chain is clean and ethical and has respect for human rights. Thus, a number of standards have been developed with respect to ethical trade, fair labour, responsible production, organic products and social compliance. Mauritius is a socially compliant country and export companies have to comply with the standards required by customers. In this era of climate change, the adoption of cleaner and more efficient technologies is no longer a matter of choice but a necessity for survival in the global market place. Market trends indicate that buyers increasingly require suppliers to respond to sustainable production, and comply with acceptable standards related to quality, environmental management and good accountability. In particular, the implementation of a green textile strategy will enable the Mauritian textile industry to gain a competitive edge and hence increase its market share.
Outlook for 2010
Ladies and Gentlemen
With all these measures in place to assist and consolidate the export enterprises, I believe that the EOE sector has good prospects for this year and beyond. There are indications that the sector registered for the first two months of 2010 an export growth of 13.5% compared to corresponding period in 2009. In some of our main export markets such as the UK, France and the USA, the export growth rates were to the order of 10 to 30 percent. And given the non-renewal of AGOA benefit for Madagascar by end of 2009, orders meant for Madagascar have been redirected to be manufactured in Mauritius. The EOE growth rate is expected to be positive at 2 % this year.
Conclusion
My Ministry will continue to act as a facilitator to assist export enterprises to better face competition and we will continue to closely work with MEXA so that together en of globalisation and liberalisation.
With these words, let me thank the outgoing President with whom we have worked closely during the course of the year. I looked forward to another year of fruitful collaboration with the incoming president. Thank You
D.G.
ON THE OCCASION OF THE FOURTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF MEXA
1ST APRIL, 2010 AT LE SIRIUS, LE LABOURDONNAIS HOTEL PORT-LOUIS
Mr. Ahmed Parkar, Chairman, MEXA
Mrs. Danielle Wong, Director, MEXA
Operators of the Export Oriented Enterprises Sector
Distinguished Guests
Members of Media
Ladies and Gentlemen
A very good morning to all of you. It gives me immense pleasure to be among you on the occasion of the Fourth Annual General Meeting of MEXA. I wish to thank MEXA for giving opportunity to address you.
Last year on this very same occasion, I emphasised the exceptional circumstances through which our economy had to navigate as a result of the global financial and economic crisis. I highlighted the loss of jobs and the negative export growth rate witnessed by the Export Oriented Enterprises (EOE) sector in 2008 and I urged all our private and public sector stakeholders to combine their efforts to chart out the way forward to address the challenges lying ahead.
A year later, I am glad to note that our economy has come out of the worst global economic recession in many decades with minimum adverse impact, achieving a reasonable export performance in 2009 and forging ahead for sustained growth in 2010. Let me seize this opportunity today to pay tribute to the captains of our industry and their employees for this remarkable achievement. I also wish to thank MEXA for its continued support to the business community and for its valuable contribution to our economic development.
Overview of the EOE sector
Ladies and Gentlemen
In spite of the global economic slowdown, the year 2009 has not been unfavourable for the EOE sector with the value of exports recording a positive growth rate of 2.8%. Exports which stood at Rs. 35 billion in 2008 rose to Rs. 36 billion in 2009. The declining trend in employment has also slowed down with EOE labour force standing at a total of about 59,000 as at now. The number of enterprises has stabilised at around 410 with some 36 new entrants. This indicates that our EOE sector still enjoys a high degree of confidence despite the fierce competition from low cost countries.
The Textile and Clothing sub-sector which accounts for 65% of total exports has emerged unscathed of the global financial and economic crisis with a slight increase of 0.1% in export value. This positive performance realised in such a morose international trading environment is an outcome of the new dynamism demonstrated by the textile and clothing sub-sector which is focusing more on quality, creativity, innovation, design, product development and niche marketing. The outlook looks much better this year as our markets gradually come out of recovery. Provisional data available for the months of January and February this year indicate that the value of exports grew by 5.1% compared to corresponding months for last year.
The Fish and Fish preparation sub-sector which employs some 4,000 persons has also witnessed a remarkable growth of 11.5% in 2009 with export of Rs. 7.1 billion as compared to Rs. 6.4 billion in 2008. Two new enterprises have started operations this year. This sub-sector continues to represent high potential for growth and it is important that we intensify our efforts to attract new investment and position Mauritius as a hub in fish processing activities. Information obtained from the seafood operators indicate that year 2010 will be a good year. In fact, exports are expected to increase by another 10% with the seafood enterprises operating at full capacity as a result of stable fish supply.
On the other hand, the jewellery and diamond sub-sector has also recorded positive growth in 2009 with exports to the tune of Rs 2.2 billion as compared to Rs 2.1 billion in 2008. This performance is very encouraging as we know that the luxury goods segment is normally the most affected one in time of recession. The other sub-sectors such as optical goods, toys and sporting goods have performed relatively well in the context of the difficult international environment.
The indicators on our economic performance in 2009 also provide signals that confidence is back after a difficult period. Last year, the economy as a whole has been able to generate 10,000 new jobs and to attract FDI to the tune of Rs 8.5 billion despite the financial crisis. Moreover, the economy’s growth rate is expected to increase to 4.3% this year from the 2.8% registered in 2009. The manufacturing sector is also estimated to pick up in 2010 with a growth rate of 1.7% compared to 0.6% in 2009. On the basis of the performance achieved by the EOE sector in 2009, we firmly believe that 2010 will be a better year for our enterprises with accelerated export growth.
The Textile Forum
Ladies and Gentlemen
The Textile and Clothing sector remains an important pillar of the economy accounting for 4.9 of GDP, 8.9 % of the active labour force, 41.5% of total merchandise exports and 65% of EOE exports. It had to face testing time in 2008 and 2009 with the financial crisis hitting the EU and US, our major export markets.
Enterprise Mauritius (EM) recently organised the Textile Forum to assess the sector with the active participation of the operators of the industry and resource persons from Mauritius and abroad. Specifically, the aims of this forum were to re-examine the key issues facing the sector in the post-crisis era; provide participants with up-to-date insights on trends on the global apparel market, including consumer behaviour, sourcing strategies and evolution of the key markets for Mauritius; and provide a platform to industry operators to brainstorm on the ‘in-factory factors’ that need to be addressed to improve competitiveness. EM is presently finalising a comprehensive report on the Forum and is devising short to medium term Action Plan for the sector. I have to say that we have noted at the forum a high degree of confidence in the sector and the optimism expressed by our operators.
Fashion and Design Institute
Another measure to consolidate and expand the Textile and Clothing sector is the launching of the Fashion and Design Institute in September 2009. The Institute is called upon to provide invaluable support to transform the textile and clothing sector into a fashion industry. It will equally cover design in non-textile sectors such as jewellery, accessories, furniture, and graphics among others. The Fashion and Design Institute aims at developing capacity in design, creativity and innovation to facilitate the movement up the value added of the global value chain. Courses are presently offered at Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Degree levels in Art and Design, Graphic Design and Fashion Textiles. Degree and Masters programmes in Graphic Design, Interior Design and Fashion Design will be delivered in collaboration with British Universities as from September 2010. I am confident that there are a lot of talents which can emerge in this area of exclusive models and high fashion products targeting highly specific niche markets. I believe we can, in the long term, develop a critical mass of such entrepreneurs and propel Mauritius as a regional centre for Fashion and Design.
Other Support Measures
The Government is committed to consolidate and expand the economy and to support the Export Oriented Enterprises sector which provides substantial employment opportunities. The business community is provided with all the necessary conditions to perform better, and to acquire competitive rather than comparative advantages which were based on availability of cheap labour and preferential access.
I would like to stress that to assist our economy to ride over the global economic crisis, Government has put in place the Additional Stimulus Package with an envelope of Rs. 10.4 billion. Within this package, the Saving Jobs and Recovery Programme (SJR), with an outlay of Rs. 3.5 billion, has been of immense help to our enterprises. Under the MASMED Fund, now called the SMSS (Support to the Manufacture and Services Sector) Fund, so far around Rs. 131 million has been spent on schemes designed to develop production and export capability of our enterprises. On the other hand, the MTSP (Mechanism for Transitional Support to the Private Sector) has so far supported 13 companies for an aggregate value of Rs 615m. To enable the acquisition and modernisation of production equipment, enterprises, irrespective of size, are being provided under the three LEMS projects leasing facilities secured by Government. To date, 160 applications have been approved by the various leasing companies for a total loan amount of Rs. 402m. As you can see, Government is committed to support our enterprises to integrate the global value chain and improve their supply side capabilities.
Another measure to support the export enterprises is the setting up of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme (ECIS) which aims at assisting exporters having difficulties in obtaining proper insurance cover to their export sales. COFACE (Compagnie Française D’Assurance pour le Commerce Extérieur) has been selected as the implementing agency for ECIS, and SIC (State Investment Corporation) as the responsible agency. Government has earmarked a sum of Rs. 300 m for this scheme to complement on default claims above the level of primary cover provided by any insurance company. With this scheme in place, the export enterprises can be more aggressive in the market and venture into new export and non-traditional markets as they know that the risks will be mostly covered.
Enterprises themselves now have to demonstrate high competitiveness if they want to survive, forge ahead and improve. Thus, through Enterprise Mauritius, a gamut of measures is put in place to enhance the competitiveness of the EOE sector. These measures are in terms of technology transfer, training and consultancy so as to move upmarket and diversify and to improve capability development. For year 2010, EM has elaborated a programme with an outlay of Rs 340 m to implement its support projects including participation in various trade fairs with a view to consolidate existing markets and penetrate new markets. In particular, around Rs 110m has been earmarked for the textile and clothing sector.
Support from AFD
Ladies and Gentlemen
As you are aware, our country is highly dependent on exports of goods. Exports account for around 30% of our GDP. In order to sustain export development, we have an overall strategy to continuously strengthen the organisational and technical capacity of our support institutions in the export readiness of our economy. In this connection, I would like to mention the grant of Euro 1.5 m that we received last year from Agence Française de Development to implement several projects aiming at building the export capabilities of Mauritius. MEXA itself together with the University of Mauritius has benefited from this source of funding to implement a Logistics Project to build competence in the field of logistics. This project is being carried out in collaboration with the University of Le Havre. I understand that several activities have already been carried out particularly with regard to the training requirements of our operators and the training of trainers and that by completion of the project UoM and MEXA would have acquired the knowledge, tools and techniques to successfully conduct academic and award courses in logistics.
Exchange Rates
MEXA and export enterprises have on a number of occasions voiced concerns about an appreciating rupee which has a bearing on the competitiveness of our products and hence on their profit margin. It is obvious that the rate of exchange of the rupee against major currencies is an important factor influencing exports. But this is not the one and only factor. Operators guided by their own interests would prefer a weak rupee. But Government, having the whole economy in mind, has to balance the interests of exporters with those of other sectors and the consumers. As an open economy we believe that the rupee should reflect the economic fundamentals. And the Government is not insensitive to the plea on our exporters to cushion, wherever possible, against undue volatility of the rupee. In this respect, the Bank of Mauritius has, whenever possible and required, intervened in the market to stabilise the rupee. Thus, the Bank has introduced the Swap Scheme in January this year to hedge against currency fluctuations, and so far some US$ 40 million have been swapped. We have also underscored that enterprises cannot all the time rely on a weak rupee to enhance their competitiveness. Improving productivity, focusing on product development, moving up market and tapping niche markets remain essential conditions to confront competition in the market place.
Sustainable Development
Ladies and Gentlemen
As you are all aware, social compliance is becoming increasingly important whereby our exporters are under considerable pressure from consumers, NGO’s, and trade unions to ensure that their supply chain is clean and ethical and has respect for human rights. Thus, a number of standards have been developed with respect to ethical trade, fair labour, responsible production, organic products and social compliance. Mauritius is a socially compliant country and export companies have to comply with the standards required by customers. In this era of climate change, the adoption of cleaner and more efficient technologies is no longer a matter of choice but a necessity for survival in the global market place. Market trends indicate that buyers increasingly require suppliers to respond to sustainable production, and comply with acceptable standards related to quality, environmental management and good accountability. In particular, the implementation of a green textile strategy will enable the Mauritian textile industry to gain a competitive edge and hence increase its market share.
Outlook for 2010
Ladies and Gentlemen
With all these measures in place to assist and consolidate the export enterprises, I believe that the EOE sector has good prospects for this year and beyond. There are indications that the sector registered for the first two months of 2010 an export growth of 13.5% compared to corresponding period in 2009. In some of our main export markets such as the UK, France and the USA, the export growth rates were to the order of 10 to 30 percent. And given the non-renewal of AGOA benefit for Madagascar by end of 2009, orders meant for Madagascar have been redirected to be manufactured in Mauritius. The EOE growth rate is expected to be positive at 2 % this year.
Conclusion
My Ministry will continue to act as a facilitator to assist export enterprises to better face competition and we will continue to closely work with MEXA so that together en of globalisation and liberalisation.
With these words, let me thank the outgoing President with whom we have worked closely during the course of the year. I looked forward to another year of fruitful collaboration with the incoming president. Thank You
D.G.
Engineering-society-1st-career-fair-7th-april-20103406289801
ADDRESS BY HON D. GOKHOOL,Minister of Industry, Science and Research‘ENGINEERING CAREER-ORIENTED FAIR 2009”
Wednesday 7 April 2010 at 10 00 hr Paul Octave Wiehe Auditorium, Reduit
Distinguished guests
Members of the Media
Ladies and gentlemen
And my Dear Students
A very good morning to you all. Thank you for your kind invitation and for the opportunity to make an address.
I welcome and congratulate all members of the Engineering family and future Engineers for this laudable initiative.
STI
Ladies and Gentlemen
We are gathered here because we want tertiary students and the general public to become familiar with the engineering companies, in fact with the engineering world, to know what changes are taking place in the field of engineering but also about the career opportunities.
As societies and civilization progress through the third millennium, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics will increasingly become a central policy issue.
We all unanimously recognize that the importance of main streaming and the integration of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in the development process and its critical importance in the attainment our socio economic development.
Also, it is a historically and internationally established fact that the world economy has been transformed by scientific developments, technological prowess and cutting edge innovation at different stages of its development. It is also a fact that civilizations have crumbled due to their inability to renew their knowledge pool. In this 3rd Millennium, the world has stepped into yet another era – the post Industrial era, where knowledge has emerged as a catalytic force for societal transformation.
“Knowledge has always been the prime mover of prosperity and power”. Creation, acquisition, application of knowledge to solve society’s emerging problems has become the thrust area throughout the world. In fact, scientific knowledge is the DNA of modern societies.
Economic and social progress critically hinges on investments and inputs from STI particularly in this era of globalization, which is characterized by the emergence of innovative and knowledge-based industries.
Challenges
That is why, National leaders and policy makers in Government Industry and Education are realizing that in order to maintain our strengths as industrialized nation, we must build a technologically literate citizen. As the world faces new challenges of better health, more abundant food, more human living and working conditions, cleaner air and water more effective education and scores of other improvements in the human conditions, we have having to face the challenges of development and application of new technologies. We have to bear in mind that it is the technological or human made world that facilitates 95% of our daily experience.
We also reckon that until now, school curricula have focused more on the natural world. A major step in transforming our societies will depend on the development of standards that describe what everyone should know and be able to know in the areas of technology and engineering. There is still widespread misunderstanding about the curriculum needed to support technological literacy. While speaking about the need for Education in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), there is often emphasis only on Science and Mathematics to the exclusion of Technology and Engineering.
Engineering
Engineering and technology are two sides of the same coin. Technologies are the processes and products that people have developed to solve problems or meet human needs and desires. Engineering is the practice of modifying or creating new technologies.
Engineering today and tomorrow will be aimed at bridging the gap between the abstract knowledge of Science and Mathematics and the critical problem we face in our world today and tomorrow.
Coming to engineering, historically, education for doing engineering has been a response to workforce needs for each new technology that appeared on the economic scene. But technology needs now to change so quickly that engineering education must be more than a response; expertise in a single discipline, or technology, is no longer the holy Grail for either a rewarded or rewarding career.
The modern engineer needs to be educated to thrive through change; else, engineer will become a commodity on the global market instead of society's enabler of wealth creation. The former is bought cheaply; the latter is more dearly valued.
Engineers must be enabled to grasp the opportunities for innovation rather than simply contribute to enhancing productivity. A critical element in the innovation process is scientific inquiry, an analytic, reductionist process which involves delving into the secrets of the universe to discover new knowledge. Innovation results when new knowledge is applied to tasks which are new and different, yielding brand new enterprises and delivering new products and services and new jobs.
Innovation, especially through engineering enterprise, is at the core of a healthy economy. This element of innovativeness lies at the core of 21st century engineering competence whether, for example, the project is a physically big, complex thing like a smart bridge or a tiny complex thing like a smart micromechanical system.
Career Paths
Given this capability, what are the fresh career paths? Well, no longer do they layer directly on traditional disciplines. Rather, next generation engineering career paths embrace complex systems issues. Examples include the issue of sustainability - avoiding environmental harm, efficient use of energy and materials, and life cycle engineering; infrastructure systems renewal; micro/nano systems which are simultaneously small in size and large in capacity and becoming ubiquitous to all product development.
How do we prepare our students toward this end? By examining engineering education and exploring innovations based on integrative and holistic approaches, we can shed light on a host of key issues facing the entire science and engineering enterprise as we move into a remarkable era we might dub as "knowledge and distributed intelligence."
In Mauritius we are taking initiatives to transform their rich reservoirs of natural resources into value products and establish a new foothold in the global market. Harnessing Science and Technology for Socio-Economic Development to raise public understanding of science, engineering and technology and their contribution towards socio economic development and improving the quality of life of our people.
This activity therefore assumes critical importance as it helps to lay the foundation for a new development paradigm driven by scientific and technological developments. Within this context of productivity and innovation, engineers will play an ever more significant role. The true wealth of a nation resides in its human capital -- especially its engineering workforce.
Engineers will develop the new processes and products and will create and manage new systems for civil infrastructure, manufacturing, health care delivery, information management, computer-communications, and so on. In general, they will put knowledge to work for society -- and in doing so, enable a huge potential for the private sector to create wealth and jobs.
To be personally successful in today's world and simultaneously promote prosperity, engineers need more than first rate technical and scientific skills. In an increasingly competitive world, engineers need to make the right decisions about how enormous amounts of time, money, and people are tasked to a common end. I would like to think of the engineer as someone who not only knows how to do things right but also knows the right thing to do. This requires engineers to have a broad, holistic background. Since engineering itself is an integrative process, engineering education must focus on this end.
For example, engineers must be able to work in teams and communicate well. They must be flexible, adaptable, and resilient. Equally important, they must be able to view their work from a systems approach, effecting connections, and within the context of ethical, political, international, environmental, and economic considerations.
The essence of engineering, on the other hand, is the process of integrating all knowledge to some purpose. As society's "master integrators," engineers must have the functional background to provide leadership in nurturing the concurrent and interactive process of innovation and wealth creation. The engineer must be able to work across many different disciplines and fields -- and make the connections that will lead to deeper insights, more creative solutions, and getting things done.
Leadership, management and organizational competencies are equally of great relevance to the engineering profession.
There is no doubt that our engineering graduates must have added value in order to compete in today's global marketplace. Yes, added value resulting from state-of-the-art knowledge, but even more -- added value garnered by probing the darkness in search of light; added value enabled by understanding risk; and added value gained through understanding and participating in the process of engineering throughout their educational experience.
It is therefore extremely pertinent that we sensitize students and the public in general of the need for more engineering students and graduates and about the challenges and opportunities in the engineering sector. Many countries are finding their development stalled because of lack of engineers.
I am therefore very pleased of your initiative to increase the exposure of our students and future students to the world of industry so that they are aware of the interesting challenges which lay ahead. It will be the beginning of an exciting journey especially, as the world is increasingly supporting and adopting a new mode of development where sustainability of our planet is at the very heart of all our preoccupations.
I now have the pleasure of declaring the Fair open and wish you all the success in attaining your objectives.
I thank you for your kind attention .
Thank You.
Wednesday 7 April 2010 at 10 00 hr Paul Octave Wiehe Auditorium, Reduit
Distinguished guests
Members of the Media
Ladies and gentlemen
And my Dear Students
A very good morning to you all. Thank you for your kind invitation and for the opportunity to make an address.
I welcome and congratulate all members of the Engineering family and future Engineers for this laudable initiative.
STI
Ladies and Gentlemen
We are gathered here because we want tertiary students and the general public to become familiar with the engineering companies, in fact with the engineering world, to know what changes are taking place in the field of engineering but also about the career opportunities.
As societies and civilization progress through the third millennium, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics will increasingly become a central policy issue.
We all unanimously recognize that the importance of main streaming and the integration of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in the development process and its critical importance in the attainment our socio economic development.
Also, it is a historically and internationally established fact that the world economy has been transformed by scientific developments, technological prowess and cutting edge innovation at different stages of its development. It is also a fact that civilizations have crumbled due to their inability to renew their knowledge pool. In this 3rd Millennium, the world has stepped into yet another era – the post Industrial era, where knowledge has emerged as a catalytic force for societal transformation.
“Knowledge has always been the prime mover of prosperity and power”. Creation, acquisition, application of knowledge to solve society’s emerging problems has become the thrust area throughout the world. In fact, scientific knowledge is the DNA of modern societies.
Economic and social progress critically hinges on investments and inputs from STI particularly in this era of globalization, which is characterized by the emergence of innovative and knowledge-based industries.
Challenges
That is why, National leaders and policy makers in Government Industry and Education are realizing that in order to maintain our strengths as industrialized nation, we must build a technologically literate citizen. As the world faces new challenges of better health, more abundant food, more human living and working conditions, cleaner air and water more effective education and scores of other improvements in the human conditions, we have having to face the challenges of development and application of new technologies. We have to bear in mind that it is the technological or human made world that facilitates 95% of our daily experience.
We also reckon that until now, school curricula have focused more on the natural world. A major step in transforming our societies will depend on the development of standards that describe what everyone should know and be able to know in the areas of technology and engineering. There is still widespread misunderstanding about the curriculum needed to support technological literacy. While speaking about the need for Education in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), there is often emphasis only on Science and Mathematics to the exclusion of Technology and Engineering.
Engineering
Engineering and technology are two sides of the same coin. Technologies are the processes and products that people have developed to solve problems or meet human needs and desires. Engineering is the practice of modifying or creating new technologies.
Engineering today and tomorrow will be aimed at bridging the gap between the abstract knowledge of Science and Mathematics and the critical problem we face in our world today and tomorrow.
Coming to engineering, historically, education for doing engineering has been a response to workforce needs for each new technology that appeared on the economic scene. But technology needs now to change so quickly that engineering education must be more than a response; expertise in a single discipline, or technology, is no longer the holy Grail for either a rewarded or rewarding career.
The modern engineer needs to be educated to thrive through change; else, engineer will become a commodity on the global market instead of society's enabler of wealth creation. The former is bought cheaply; the latter is more dearly valued.
Engineers must be enabled to grasp the opportunities for innovation rather than simply contribute to enhancing productivity. A critical element in the innovation process is scientific inquiry, an analytic, reductionist process which involves delving into the secrets of the universe to discover new knowledge. Innovation results when new knowledge is applied to tasks which are new and different, yielding brand new enterprises and delivering new products and services and new jobs.
Innovation, especially through engineering enterprise, is at the core of a healthy economy. This element of innovativeness lies at the core of 21st century engineering competence whether, for example, the project is a physically big, complex thing like a smart bridge or a tiny complex thing like a smart micromechanical system.
Career Paths
Given this capability, what are the fresh career paths? Well, no longer do they layer directly on traditional disciplines. Rather, next generation engineering career paths embrace complex systems issues. Examples include the issue of sustainability - avoiding environmental harm, efficient use of energy and materials, and life cycle engineering; infrastructure systems renewal; micro/nano systems which are simultaneously small in size and large in capacity and becoming ubiquitous to all product development.
How do we prepare our students toward this end? By examining engineering education and exploring innovations based on integrative and holistic approaches, we can shed light on a host of key issues facing the entire science and engineering enterprise as we move into a remarkable era we might dub as "knowledge and distributed intelligence."
In Mauritius we are taking initiatives to transform their rich reservoirs of natural resources into value products and establish a new foothold in the global market. Harnessing Science and Technology for Socio-Economic Development to raise public understanding of science, engineering and technology and their contribution towards socio economic development and improving the quality of life of our people.
This activity therefore assumes critical importance as it helps to lay the foundation for a new development paradigm driven by scientific and technological developments. Within this context of productivity and innovation, engineers will play an ever more significant role. The true wealth of a nation resides in its human capital -- especially its engineering workforce.
Engineers will develop the new processes and products and will create and manage new systems for civil infrastructure, manufacturing, health care delivery, information management, computer-communications, and so on. In general, they will put knowledge to work for society -- and in doing so, enable a huge potential for the private sector to create wealth and jobs.
To be personally successful in today's world and simultaneously promote prosperity, engineers need more than first rate technical and scientific skills. In an increasingly competitive world, engineers need to make the right decisions about how enormous amounts of time, money, and people are tasked to a common end. I would like to think of the engineer as someone who not only knows how to do things right but also knows the right thing to do. This requires engineers to have a broad, holistic background. Since engineering itself is an integrative process, engineering education must focus on this end.
For example, engineers must be able to work in teams and communicate well. They must be flexible, adaptable, and resilient. Equally important, they must be able to view their work from a systems approach, effecting connections, and within the context of ethical, political, international, environmental, and economic considerations.
The essence of engineering, on the other hand, is the process of integrating all knowledge to some purpose. As society's "master integrators," engineers must have the functional background to provide leadership in nurturing the concurrent and interactive process of innovation and wealth creation. The engineer must be able to work across many different disciplines and fields -- and make the connections that will lead to deeper insights, more creative solutions, and getting things done.
Leadership, management and organizational competencies are equally of great relevance to the engineering profession.
There is no doubt that our engineering graduates must have added value in order to compete in today's global marketplace. Yes, added value resulting from state-of-the-art knowledge, but even more -- added value garnered by probing the darkness in search of light; added value enabled by understanding risk; and added value gained through understanding and participating in the process of engineering throughout their educational experience.
It is therefore extremely pertinent that we sensitize students and the public in general of the need for more engineering students and graduates and about the challenges and opportunities in the engineering sector. Many countries are finding their development stalled because of lack of engineers.
I am therefore very pleased of your initiative to increase the exposure of our students and future students to the world of industry so that they are aware of the interesting challenges which lay ahead. It will be the beginning of an exciting journey especially, as the world is increasingly supporting and adopting a new mode of development where sustainability of our planet is at the very heart of all our preoccupations.
I now have the pleasure of declaring the Fair open and wish you all the success in attaining your objectives.
I thank you for your kind attention .
Thank You.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
AGM Mauritius Chamber of Commerce & Industry 25 March 2010
SPEECH BY HON. D.GOKHOOLMINISTER OF INDUSTRY, SCIENCE AND RESEARCH ON THE OCCASION OF THE 161ST ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE MCCI 25TH MARCH, 2010 AT LABOURDONNAIS WATERFRONT HOTEL,PORT-LOUIS
Hon. Arvind Boolell, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade
Hon. Mahen Gowreesoo, Minister of Business, Enterprise and Cooperatives
Hon. Sylvio Tang, Minister of Consumer Protection and Citizens Charter
Members of Diplomatic Corps
Mr. Kiran Juwaheer, President of MCCI
Mr. Mahmood Cheeroo, Secretary-General of MCCI
Captains of Industry
Members of the Press
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
Good Morning
Thank you for inviting me once again to your Annual General Assembly and giving me the opportunity to make an address.
Allow me at the very outset to congratulate the MCCI for the very effective role it has been playing as the voice of the business community while furthering the interests of its members over the last 161 years.
Partnership
It is indeed a matter of great pride for Mauritius that we have highly respected and effective private sector institutions that are role models in the region and have nothing to envy other similar organizations as far as international best practices are concerned. Also, our Public Private Sector partnership has often been recognized, both regionally and internationally as a catalytic factor in our country’s development.
The MCCI has been a proactive partner of Government, in regional and international fora, where we demonstrate concerted and unified positions. The contributions of the MCCI in shaping up the Economic Partnership Agreement with the EU, the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement with the US, and the Free Trade Agreement with Pakistan and Turkey, are but few examples of our strategic partnership on international issues. We can, through our combined efforts successfully confront the daunting and arduous challenges ahead.
Let me assure the Chamber that, in the long-standing tradition of public and private sector cooperation, Government will provide all due consideration to your preoccupations and problems and ensure that the views of the Chamber are taken on board in our national economic policies.
Economic Scene
As you are ware, Government has since 2005 initiated profound structural economic reforms to do away with an economic model that relied too much on trade preferences and protection in an increasingly globalising world. The business environment has been improved. We have been able to turn around the economy and put it on a higher growth path. The economy bounced back with annual growth rates of round 5% during 2006 and 2008.
However, hit by the global economic slowdown the economy and the manufacturing sector have gone through testing times last year. Growth of GDP which was 5.1% in 2008, dipped to 2.8% in 2009. In contrast, growth of the manufacturing sector, after reaching 3.2% in 2007, plummeted to 0.6% in 2009. Albeit low, the positive growth rates do indicate the resilience of both our economy and the manufacturing sector. Indeed, many countries have registered negative growth rates and have suffered significant job losses. Through vision, leadership and courage, we have been able to spare our people the trauma usually associated with economic downturns.
Thanks to the economic reforms our economy has been able to withstand the global economic crisis rather well. In 2010, GDP growth is expected to be around 4.5%, whereas growth of manufacturing is projected at 1.5 %. I would like to stress that to assist our economy to ride over the global economic crisis, Government put in place the Additional Stimulus Package with an envelope of Rs. 10.4 billion. Within this package, the Saving Jobs and Recovery Programme (SJR), with an outlay of Rs. 3.5 billion, has been of immense help to our enterprises. Under the MASMED Fund, now called the SMSS Fund, so far around Rs. 131 million has been spent on schemes designed to develop production and export capability of our enterprises.
Our aim is to support our enterprises to integrate the global value chain and improve their supply side capabilities.
Exchange Rates
While the Stimulus Package has provided some relief to our economic operators, the export enterprises have from time to time voiced concerns about the appreciation of the rupee and its impact on their operations and profit margin. A stronger rupee no doubt implies lesser income in terms of rupee for every unit of exports. I must say that Government has the delicate task to balance the interest of all sectors of the economy and to ensure that economic fundamentals stay as close to their equilibrium state as far as possible. Any depreciation of the rupee has to take into account its impact on inflation and the purchasing power of the people ,especially those in the low income group.
Allowing a greater role of market forces of demand and supply for currencies will better reflect the macro-economic fundamentals of the country. But Government is not insensitive to the plea on our exporters to cushion, wherever possible, against undue volatility of the rupee. In this respect, you would recall that the Bank of Mauritius introduced the Swap Scheme in January this year to hedge against currency fluctuations. I understand that so far some US $ 40 million has been swapped. This is an encouraging sign that our exporters are well inclined to take advantage of this non-traditional instrument.
The possibility of establishing Sovereign Fund to channel foreign exchange derived from donor funding with a view to stabilise currency fluctuations is being looked into. Also, the need for greater stability and predictability of our exchange rates needs to be kept in view, even though there are factors beyond our control that invariably exert their own impact.
New Trading Patterns and Challenges
Ladies and gentlemen
In spite of the current difficulties being faced our economy, industrial and commercial sector has been relatively buoyant, marked by the perseverance, commitment and resilience of our business operators. However, we need to constantly re-invent our mode of doing business to better tackle new challenges emanating from the global scene. Our enterprises are now trading in an era where competitiveness under the shelter of trade preferences is no longer the order of the day. Price and Quality are important for enterprises to stay in the game but no longer sufficient to have a competitive edge. We have together, public and private sector operators, to chart out a new route to sustain industrial competitiveness. We have to look in the same direction of economic modernity where our enterprises adopt best business management practices and integrate technology, skills, creativity and market knowledge, as key assets of competitiveness.
That is why, apart from support measures, it was imperative to come up with new policy strategies. We have done so through an Industrial and SME Strategic Plan for the period 2010-2013. This document has been the outcome of interaction between public and private sector stakeholders, including the MCCI. This Plan provides for an “Entrepreneurship and an Innovation-based” model of industrial development and is geared to foster development of enterprises on basis of technology, innovation, skills, creativity and knowledge, among key competitive factors.
A National Industrial Advisory Council will soon be set up and it will act as a National Think Tank on business issues, both local and global. It will be an important platform towards informed policy choices and strategic direction.
But one of the biggest challenges facing economic operators is how to satisfy the aspirations of a more qualified labour force and a more alert, better informed consumer. While economic operators have to ensure that our products and services are of good quality, offer value for money, many enterprises are realizing that customers are now making their decisions based on a variety of complex factors. Which go beyond price, quality and innovation.
Let me quote an extract from an Economic Intelligence Unit Survey Report 2007:-
“Increasingly, executives are finding that the winning differentiator is no longer the product or the price, but the level of engagement – the degree to which a company succeeds in creating an intimate long-term relationship with the customer or external stakeholder. Although the term “engagement” is sometimes used to describe customer marketing, loyalty, satisfaction and retention practices, companies are now realizing that engagement also is a more strategic way of looking at customer or stakeholder relationships.”
“Engagement initiatives are more proactive in anticipating customer needs and expectations, and fulfilling them more effectively.”
Customer Engagement(CE) ----the creation of a deeper, intimate, more meaningful longer term connection between the company and the customer----- is emerging as one of the biggest challenges for businesses and as an important strategic business option. This will imply more attention to Market Research.
Sustainable Development
We should also not lose sight that buyers are increasingly emphasizing green production, fair and ethical trade, flexibility and swift manufacturing, differentiated products, and full package of services, among major trade practices. Mauritius should be in the league of ‘avant-gardiste’ countries that leverage on these trading practices in order to respond to market exigencies. Enterprises should spare no efforts to mainstream sustainability in their production structures. Government, in line with the Maurice Ile Durable vision has come up with a number of measures to foster a greener Mauritius. Enterprise Mauritius is currently implementing an Energy Audit Project for enterprises. The findings will provide us insight into better ways of using energy in the business sector. A Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production Programme will be set up with the assistance of UNIDO/UNEP to promote sustainable production in the country. The MSB, for its part is actively promoting the adoption of an Environmental Management System among enterprises. I will exhort our enterprises to benefit from these schemes.
Science, Technology and Innovation
Ladies and Gentlemen
It is against this backdrop that we should situate the role of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in moving our country to the next level of development. There is growing empirical evidence worldwide of a positive correlation between investment in science, technology and innovation infrastructure and higher socio-economic growth. The expenditure on R&D in Mauritius, estimated at 0.4% of GDP, is particularly low when compared with South Africa (0.8%%), Malaysia (0.7%), Singapore (2.3%), and Korea (2.6%).Countries that have devoted adequate resources to establish an eco-system for STI have achieved higher levels of socio-economic development and Mauritius should position itself among those which have succeeded on basis of innovation and knowledge.
The Prime Minister has set the stage for us when in 2008, he brought Science and Research under the fold of the Ministry of Industry. This was a move in the right direction. The imperative now is to develop a holistic and integrated approach to facilitate the shift to a science and knowledge-based economy. My Ministry is currently finalizing a framework document for the way forward for STI which will pave the way for the integration of continuous innovation within our industries through greater synergy among research institutions.
Before ending let me share this reflection with Before ending let me share this reflection with you:
“Just as at the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, our society is at a cross roads. In such a volatile environment, the future belongs not to those who are buffeted by change, cautiously adapting to it as needed, but to those with the foresight to recognize and embrace the potential offered by the very changes that others find so unsettling.” – Thomas W. Malone, Professor or Information Systems at Sloan School of Management
Conclusion
Ladies and Gentlemen
To conclude let me thank the outgoing president with whom we have worked closely during the course of the year. I look to another year of fruitful collaboration with the incoming president.
Hon. Arvind Boolell, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade
Hon. Mahen Gowreesoo, Minister of Business, Enterprise and Cooperatives
Hon. Sylvio Tang, Minister of Consumer Protection and Citizens Charter
Members of Diplomatic Corps
Mr. Kiran Juwaheer, President of MCCI
Mr. Mahmood Cheeroo, Secretary-General of MCCI
Captains of Industry
Members of the Press
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
Good Morning
Thank you for inviting me once again to your Annual General Assembly and giving me the opportunity to make an address.
Allow me at the very outset to congratulate the MCCI for the very effective role it has been playing as the voice of the business community while furthering the interests of its members over the last 161 years.
Partnership
It is indeed a matter of great pride for Mauritius that we have highly respected and effective private sector institutions that are role models in the region and have nothing to envy other similar organizations as far as international best practices are concerned. Also, our Public Private Sector partnership has often been recognized, both regionally and internationally as a catalytic factor in our country’s development.
The MCCI has been a proactive partner of Government, in regional and international fora, where we demonstrate concerted and unified positions. The contributions of the MCCI in shaping up the Economic Partnership Agreement with the EU, the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement with the US, and the Free Trade Agreement with Pakistan and Turkey, are but few examples of our strategic partnership on international issues. We can, through our combined efforts successfully confront the daunting and arduous challenges ahead.
Let me assure the Chamber that, in the long-standing tradition of public and private sector cooperation, Government will provide all due consideration to your preoccupations and problems and ensure that the views of the Chamber are taken on board in our national economic policies.
Economic Scene
As you are ware, Government has since 2005 initiated profound structural economic reforms to do away with an economic model that relied too much on trade preferences and protection in an increasingly globalising world. The business environment has been improved. We have been able to turn around the economy and put it on a higher growth path. The economy bounced back with annual growth rates of round 5% during 2006 and 2008.
However, hit by the global economic slowdown the economy and the manufacturing sector have gone through testing times last year. Growth of GDP which was 5.1% in 2008, dipped to 2.8% in 2009. In contrast, growth of the manufacturing sector, after reaching 3.2% in 2007, plummeted to 0.6% in 2009. Albeit low, the positive growth rates do indicate the resilience of both our economy and the manufacturing sector. Indeed, many countries have registered negative growth rates and have suffered significant job losses. Through vision, leadership and courage, we have been able to spare our people the trauma usually associated with economic downturns.
Thanks to the economic reforms our economy has been able to withstand the global economic crisis rather well. In 2010, GDP growth is expected to be around 4.5%, whereas growth of manufacturing is projected at 1.5 %. I would like to stress that to assist our economy to ride over the global economic crisis, Government put in place the Additional Stimulus Package with an envelope of Rs. 10.4 billion. Within this package, the Saving Jobs and Recovery Programme (SJR), with an outlay of Rs. 3.5 billion, has been of immense help to our enterprises. Under the MASMED Fund, now called the SMSS Fund, so far around Rs. 131 million has been spent on schemes designed to develop production and export capability of our enterprises.
Our aim is to support our enterprises to integrate the global value chain and improve their supply side capabilities.
Exchange Rates
While the Stimulus Package has provided some relief to our economic operators, the export enterprises have from time to time voiced concerns about the appreciation of the rupee and its impact on their operations and profit margin. A stronger rupee no doubt implies lesser income in terms of rupee for every unit of exports. I must say that Government has the delicate task to balance the interest of all sectors of the economy and to ensure that economic fundamentals stay as close to their equilibrium state as far as possible. Any depreciation of the rupee has to take into account its impact on inflation and the purchasing power of the people ,especially those in the low income group.
Allowing a greater role of market forces of demand and supply for currencies will better reflect the macro-economic fundamentals of the country. But Government is not insensitive to the plea on our exporters to cushion, wherever possible, against undue volatility of the rupee. In this respect, you would recall that the Bank of Mauritius introduced the Swap Scheme in January this year to hedge against currency fluctuations. I understand that so far some US $ 40 million has been swapped. This is an encouraging sign that our exporters are well inclined to take advantage of this non-traditional instrument.
The possibility of establishing Sovereign Fund to channel foreign exchange derived from donor funding with a view to stabilise currency fluctuations is being looked into. Also, the need for greater stability and predictability of our exchange rates needs to be kept in view, even though there are factors beyond our control that invariably exert their own impact.
New Trading Patterns and Challenges
Ladies and gentlemen
In spite of the current difficulties being faced our economy, industrial and commercial sector has been relatively buoyant, marked by the perseverance, commitment and resilience of our business operators. However, we need to constantly re-invent our mode of doing business to better tackle new challenges emanating from the global scene. Our enterprises are now trading in an era where competitiveness under the shelter of trade preferences is no longer the order of the day. Price and Quality are important for enterprises to stay in the game but no longer sufficient to have a competitive edge. We have together, public and private sector operators, to chart out a new route to sustain industrial competitiveness. We have to look in the same direction of economic modernity where our enterprises adopt best business management practices and integrate technology, skills, creativity and market knowledge, as key assets of competitiveness.
That is why, apart from support measures, it was imperative to come up with new policy strategies. We have done so through an Industrial and SME Strategic Plan for the period 2010-2013. This document has been the outcome of interaction between public and private sector stakeholders, including the MCCI. This Plan provides for an “Entrepreneurship and an Innovation-based” model of industrial development and is geared to foster development of enterprises on basis of technology, innovation, skills, creativity and knowledge, among key competitive factors.
A National Industrial Advisory Council will soon be set up and it will act as a National Think Tank on business issues, both local and global. It will be an important platform towards informed policy choices and strategic direction.
But one of the biggest challenges facing economic operators is how to satisfy the aspirations of a more qualified labour force and a more alert, better informed consumer. While economic operators have to ensure that our products and services are of good quality, offer value for money, many enterprises are realizing that customers are now making their decisions based on a variety of complex factors. Which go beyond price, quality and innovation.
Let me quote an extract from an Economic Intelligence Unit Survey Report 2007:-
“Increasingly, executives are finding that the winning differentiator is no longer the product or the price, but the level of engagement – the degree to which a company succeeds in creating an intimate long-term relationship with the customer or external stakeholder. Although the term “engagement” is sometimes used to describe customer marketing, loyalty, satisfaction and retention practices, companies are now realizing that engagement also is a more strategic way of looking at customer or stakeholder relationships.”
“Engagement initiatives are more proactive in anticipating customer needs and expectations, and fulfilling them more effectively.”
Customer Engagement(CE) ----the creation of a deeper, intimate, more meaningful longer term connection between the company and the customer----- is emerging as one of the biggest challenges for businesses and as an important strategic business option. This will imply more attention to Market Research.
Sustainable Development
We should also not lose sight that buyers are increasingly emphasizing green production, fair and ethical trade, flexibility and swift manufacturing, differentiated products, and full package of services, among major trade practices. Mauritius should be in the league of ‘avant-gardiste’ countries that leverage on these trading practices in order to respond to market exigencies. Enterprises should spare no efforts to mainstream sustainability in their production structures. Government, in line with the Maurice Ile Durable vision has come up with a number of measures to foster a greener Mauritius. Enterprise Mauritius is currently implementing an Energy Audit Project for enterprises. The findings will provide us insight into better ways of using energy in the business sector. A Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production Programme will be set up with the assistance of UNIDO/UNEP to promote sustainable production in the country. The MSB, for its part is actively promoting the adoption of an Environmental Management System among enterprises. I will exhort our enterprises to benefit from these schemes.
Science, Technology and Innovation
Ladies and Gentlemen
It is against this backdrop that we should situate the role of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in moving our country to the next level of development. There is growing empirical evidence worldwide of a positive correlation between investment in science, technology and innovation infrastructure and higher socio-economic growth. The expenditure on R&D in Mauritius, estimated at 0.4% of GDP, is particularly low when compared with South Africa (0.8%%), Malaysia (0.7%), Singapore (2.3%), and Korea (2.6%).Countries that have devoted adequate resources to establish an eco-system for STI have achieved higher levels of socio-economic development and Mauritius should position itself among those which have succeeded on basis of innovation and knowledge.
The Prime Minister has set the stage for us when in 2008, he brought Science and Research under the fold of the Ministry of Industry. This was a move in the right direction. The imperative now is to develop a holistic and integrated approach to facilitate the shift to a science and knowledge-based economy. My Ministry is currently finalizing a framework document for the way forward for STI which will pave the way for the integration of continuous innovation within our industries through greater synergy among research institutions.
Before ending let me share this reflection with Before ending let me share this reflection with you:
“Just as at the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, our society is at a cross roads. In such a volatile environment, the future belongs not to those who are buffeted by change, cautiously adapting to it as needed, but to those with the foresight to recognize and embrace the potential offered by the very changes that others find so unsettling.” – Thomas W. Malone, Professor or Information Systems at Sloan School of Management
Conclusion
Ladies and Gentlemen
To conclude let me thank the outgoing president with whom we have worked closely during the course of the year. I look to another year of fruitful collaboration with the incoming president.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Astronomny 3rd Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture Introductory Address
Hon Prime Minister Dr Navin Ramgoolam
Vice Prime Minister, Hon Xavier Duval
Hon Ministers & Hon Members of the National Assembly
Our Distinguished Guest and Speaker, Prof Jaswant Vishnu Narlikar
Excellencies
Distinguished Guests
Members of the Media
Ladies & Gentlemen
And My Dear Students
Good Morning and welcome to the third Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture to be delivered by Prof Narlikar. The theme of the Lecture is :The Amazing World of Astronomy.
Let me, first of all, extend a very warm and cordial to our distinguished visitor. Let me also thank you all for your kind presence.
The Hon Prime Minister has apologized as he is unable to attend to-day’s lecture due to unforeseen circumstances.
L & G, Science is knowledge and one of the important aims in life is to seek new knowledge and to apply it for benefit of people and society. Our Prime Minister is a strong proponent of life-long learning. This is why he was so interested to come for the lecture.
Laudable initiative
My thanks also go to the Chairman Prof Bhuruth and Director Dr Maulloo, as well as the Indian High Commission for facilitating the visit of Professor Narlikar.
The first contacts were established in the context of the International Year of Astronomy last year and we are pleased that our efforts have borne fruits.
I must say that it is indeed a very laudable initiative of RGSC whose mission is to popularize the Sciences. May I remind you L & G that in March 2006, the Center welcomed another distinguished personality ,the President of the Republic of India, Dr Abdul Kalam, who also came to this auditorium and spoke on Sciences and the Society.
L & G, at a time when Mauritius is aspiring to become a Knowledge-based society, when we want Mauritius to embrace a model of sustainable, pro-environment development, Science, Technology and Innovation will be called upon to play a catalytic role.
Both DCs and NICs are adopting this option. In the words of Lord Drayson, the UK Minister of Science: “The priority now is to focus scientific effort and research on those sectors most likely to deliver national success. As arguably our greatest national – our greatest natural – resource, scientists and engineers must be fully involved in the new industrial activism.”
For the benefit of our distinguished visitor ,allow me to mention that to drive this movement in favour of mainstreaming Science Research ,Technology and Innovation, our Prime Minister created a new Ministry, in September 2008—the Ministry of Industry, Science and Research.
Your visit Professor Narlikar forms part of the strategy of my Ministry, in collaboration with Science and Research-based organizations like the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre to boost the status and the role of Science, technology and Innovation for national development.
We thank the Government of India, and the Indian High Commission for facilitating the visit of Prof Narlikar. We have in the pipeline a new MOU in the field of Science and Research which will be signed soon between India and Mauritius. My Ministry is also elaborating a Framework document on STI.
A world renowned Scientist
L&G it is against this backdrop that we must view the visit of Prof Narlikar. We are all gathered to embark upon a unique learning experience. We have a very exciting theme-Astronomy (not Astrology about which there is also considerable interest these days in Mauritius!).
Our speaker,Prof Narlikar, is a world renowned Scientist---to be more precise ,a scientist specializing in Astronomy and Astrophysics—who will address us and unravel for us the wonders of Astronomy, about the creation and the evolution of our universe.
I do not propose to give a detailed account of the life, career and achievements of Prof Narlikar. I seek your indulgence but we have prepared a Fact Sheet on Prof Narlikar which you may wish to go through and learn more about our distinguished speaker.
But with your permission ,I would like to make a few remarks about Prof Narlikar.
Prof Narlikar was born in 1938 in Kolhapur Mahrashtra, India. He is married to Dr Mangala Rajwade and has three daughters: Geeta, Girija and Leelavati.
He studied in India and UK and has travelled extensively.
He has worked for the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research(1972-1989) and it is under his leadership that the Theoretical Astrophysics Group acquired international recognition.
It was a real feat for Prof Narlikar to work with Professor Fred Hoyle, Britain’s most eminent astrophysicist, on a new theory of gravitation when he was only 26.This theory was then considered as significant as Einstein’s Theory of relativity. Prof Narlikar is often hailed as India’s Einstein
He is internationally known for his work in Cosmology, in championing models alternative to the Big Bang model.
Between 1999-2003, he broke new grounds in space research; he headed an international team in a pioneering experiment designed to sample air for microorganism in the atmosphere at heights of up to 41 km. Biological studies of the samples collected led to the findings of live cells and bacteria, thus opening out the possibility that Earth is being bombarded by microorganism, some of which might have seeded life itself on Earth.
Prof Narlikar has written and published extensively; he has contributed to numerous Radio and TV programmes.
For his outstanding works ,he has been rewarded nationally and internationally, receiving the coveted Padmabushan Award of the Republic of India In 1965 at the young gae of 26,and then crowning it with the other more prestigious Padmavibushan Award in 2004,India’s second highest civilian honour. Prof Narlikar has also received the Kalinga Award of UNESCO and Indira Gandhi Prize by the Indian National Academy in 1990.
It is indeed a great privilege to have Prof Narlikar in our midst and in a few moments we shall have the pleasure of listening to him.
Let me take the opportunity to announce that the vote of thanks will be presented by Prof Jugessur ,the Chairman of the Mauritian Academy of Science and Technology, and also Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Mauritius Research Council.
And before Prof Narlikar takes the floor, may I request Mrs Sannassee of the RGSC to offer a Bouquet to our distinguished visitor.
May I now invite Prof Narlikar to make his address.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Vice Prime Minister, Hon Xavier Duval
Hon Ministers & Hon Members of the National Assembly
Our Distinguished Guest and Speaker, Prof Jaswant Vishnu Narlikar
Excellencies
Distinguished Guests
Members of the Media
Ladies & Gentlemen
And My Dear Students
Good Morning and welcome to the third Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture to be delivered by Prof Narlikar. The theme of the Lecture is :The Amazing World of Astronomy.
Let me, first of all, extend a very warm and cordial to our distinguished visitor. Let me also thank you all for your kind presence.
The Hon Prime Minister has apologized as he is unable to attend to-day’s lecture due to unforeseen circumstances.
L & G, Science is knowledge and one of the important aims in life is to seek new knowledge and to apply it for benefit of people and society. Our Prime Minister is a strong proponent of life-long learning. This is why he was so interested to come for the lecture.
Laudable initiative
My thanks also go to the Chairman Prof Bhuruth and Director Dr Maulloo, as well as the Indian High Commission for facilitating the visit of Professor Narlikar.
The first contacts were established in the context of the International Year of Astronomy last year and we are pleased that our efforts have borne fruits.
I must say that it is indeed a very laudable initiative of RGSC whose mission is to popularize the Sciences. May I remind you L & G that in March 2006, the Center welcomed another distinguished personality ,the President of the Republic of India, Dr Abdul Kalam, who also came to this auditorium and spoke on Sciences and the Society.
L & G, at a time when Mauritius is aspiring to become a Knowledge-based society, when we want Mauritius to embrace a model of sustainable, pro-environment development, Science, Technology and Innovation will be called upon to play a catalytic role.
Both DCs and NICs are adopting this option. In the words of Lord Drayson, the UK Minister of Science: “The priority now is to focus scientific effort and research on those sectors most likely to deliver national success. As arguably our greatest national – our greatest natural – resource, scientists and engineers must be fully involved in the new industrial activism.”
For the benefit of our distinguished visitor ,allow me to mention that to drive this movement in favour of mainstreaming Science Research ,Technology and Innovation, our Prime Minister created a new Ministry, in September 2008—the Ministry of Industry, Science and Research.
Your visit Professor Narlikar forms part of the strategy of my Ministry, in collaboration with Science and Research-based organizations like the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre to boost the status and the role of Science, technology and Innovation for national development.
We thank the Government of India, and the Indian High Commission for facilitating the visit of Prof Narlikar. We have in the pipeline a new MOU in the field of Science and Research which will be signed soon between India and Mauritius. My Ministry is also elaborating a Framework document on STI.
A world renowned Scientist
L&G it is against this backdrop that we must view the visit of Prof Narlikar. We are all gathered to embark upon a unique learning experience. We have a very exciting theme-Astronomy (not Astrology about which there is also considerable interest these days in Mauritius!).
Our speaker,Prof Narlikar, is a world renowned Scientist---to be more precise ,a scientist specializing in Astronomy and Astrophysics—who will address us and unravel for us the wonders of Astronomy, about the creation and the evolution of our universe.
I do not propose to give a detailed account of the life, career and achievements of Prof Narlikar. I seek your indulgence but we have prepared a Fact Sheet on Prof Narlikar which you may wish to go through and learn more about our distinguished speaker.
But with your permission ,I would like to make a few remarks about Prof Narlikar.
Prof Narlikar was born in 1938 in Kolhapur Mahrashtra, India. He is married to Dr Mangala Rajwade and has three daughters: Geeta, Girija and Leelavati.
He studied in India and UK and has travelled extensively.
He has worked for the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research(1972-1989) and it is under his leadership that the Theoretical Astrophysics Group acquired international recognition.
It was a real feat for Prof Narlikar to work with Professor Fred Hoyle, Britain’s most eminent astrophysicist, on a new theory of gravitation when he was only 26.This theory was then considered as significant as Einstein’s Theory of relativity. Prof Narlikar is often hailed as India’s Einstein
He is internationally known for his work in Cosmology, in championing models alternative to the Big Bang model.
Between 1999-2003, he broke new grounds in space research; he headed an international team in a pioneering experiment designed to sample air for microorganism in the atmosphere at heights of up to 41 km. Biological studies of the samples collected led to the findings of live cells and bacteria, thus opening out the possibility that Earth is being bombarded by microorganism, some of which might have seeded life itself on Earth.
Prof Narlikar has written and published extensively; he has contributed to numerous Radio and TV programmes.
For his outstanding works ,he has been rewarded nationally and internationally, receiving the coveted Padmabushan Award of the Republic of India In 1965 at the young gae of 26,and then crowning it with the other more prestigious Padmavibushan Award in 2004,India’s second highest civilian honour. Prof Narlikar has also received the Kalinga Award of UNESCO and Indira Gandhi Prize by the Indian National Academy in 1990.
It is indeed a great privilege to have Prof Narlikar in our midst and in a few moments we shall have the pleasure of listening to him.
Let me take the opportunity to announce that the vote of thanks will be presented by Prof Jugessur ,the Chairman of the Mauritian Academy of Science and Technology, and also Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Mauritius Research Council.
And before Prof Narlikar takes the floor, may I request Mrs Sannassee of the RGSC to offer a Bouquet to our distinguished visitor.
May I now invite Prof Narlikar to make his address.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Brand Development 2nd Edition 2009/2010
ADDRESS BY HON D. GOKHOOL,
MINISTER OF INDUSTRY, SCIENCE
AND RESEARCH
Award Ceremony
For the Second Edition of
Brand Development Grant
Friday 18 February 2010
at 17 00 hrs
Le Sirius, Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel
Caudan
The Chairman of Enterprise Mauritius
Mr S. Ragen, PS of my Ministry
CEO of Enterprise Mauritius
Chairpersons and CEOs of Industry Associations
Members of the Board of Enterprise Mauritius
Members of the Media
Ladies and Gentlemen
Good afternoon.
It gives me great pleasure to be associated to this second edition of the Brand Development Grant Award ceremony which is now an annual feature of Enterprise Mauritius. I was present in January 2009,at the Award Ceremony of the First phase of the Brand Development Grant Scheme.
Branding
L & G , the business environment has become increasingly global and competition is also at a global scale. Not only companies but also nations are using branding as one of the most sophisticated and strategic tool to promote their products and services.
Internationally the concept of Branding has emerged as a very powerful marketing tool for products and services, institutions as well as nations.
Branding forms an integral part of our overall strategy to reposition the industrial sector as an entrepreneurial technology and innovation based industrial sector. This aspect has clearly been underscored in our new Industrial and SME Strategic Plan 2010-2013.
The American Marketing Association (AMA) defines a brand as a “name, term, sign, symbol or design, or a combination of them intended to identify the goods and services of one seller or group of sellers and to differentiate them from those of other sellers”.
Brand elements also include colour schemes, typeface, slogans, and commercial jingles.
Some famous people are even considered brands. For example, Michael Jordan, Cher, Tiger Woods, and Donald Trump all enjoy the status of “being the brand”. Even Asian personalities like Ashwarya Rai or A.R. Rahman are Brand icons.
Branding is not about competition, about being better than your competitiors; it is about being unique to your customers. It builds a special emotional equation with your customers. Your brand resides in their hearts and minds.
Branding creates the “memory hook” for your customers .You may have heard the term “mindshare”. When someone needs certain products and services, your brand comes naturally to their minds. Over time you build trust and loyalty which are everlasting.
But it is vital that you keep to the promises you make through your Brand image. There must be congruence in your communication about what you promise and what you deliver.
To-day, it is an established and recognized strategic response towards achieving superior performance, outstanding outcomes and excellence. And to stand out of the crowd
Branding Mauritius
In this context, the Government of Mauritius has come forward with its Brand “Maurice c’est un plaisir”, India with its Brand Name “Incredible India”, Thailand as “The Land of smiles” or Singapore promoting itself as “Uniquely Singapore”. The idea behind branding Mauritius is not only to sell the island principally as a tourist destination but also side by side sell a host of other typically Mauritian products that can attract tourists namely its ethnic food, handicrafts, high quality textile and clothing products and exclusive jewellery products. To this end my Ministry is working on the sub brand for manufactured products – the “Made with Care” concept.
We wish in the long run that locally manufactured products one day become as internationally known brands as those reputed ones like Coca Cola, Pepsi, Toyota, Nissan, Gucci, Lacoste, Christian Dior, Dell, Accer, Microsoft just to name a few which are present in Mauritius.
An asset
Brands are powerful wealth creators as sales of branded products bring much more profits to those companies who possess good brands compared to those companies which sell similar but unbranded products. Therefore a strong brand is invaluable as the battle for customers intensifies day by day.
As entrepreneurs who want to boost your sales and enter the international markets, you must understand the needs and wants of your customers and prospects and integrate your brand strategies at every point of public contact.
You should ensure that the brand that you have created or want to create resides within the hearts and minds of customers, clients, and prospects. It is the sum of their experiences and perceptions, some of which you can influence and make them become the source of a promise to your consumer.
EM Initiatives
I am therefore happy with the initiatives which Enterprise Mauritius has taken since 2008 to include among their support schemes, the award of a brand development grant of up to One million rupees to the best five initiatives taken towards internationalization of local brands.
However such initiatives are not enough. More innovative strategies should be devised so as to link SMEs into the main stream of industrial development. The end result should be focused on their achieving export readiness.
The vision of MISR
The initiatives of EM are line with the aims and objectives of my Ministry. As Minister for Industry, Science and Research, I always emphasized that to have a modern and vibrant industry; we need to invest on Research and Development. R&D should not be limited to scientific innovation or technology but also investing in researching, defining, and building a brand.
In the Industrial and SME Strategic Plan 2009 -2013, I have spelt out that the priorities of my Ministry are to integrate all sectors of the economy into the global value chain. For years now, Enterprise Mauritius has been undertaking export promotion mainly by organizing participation of Mauritian enterprises in trade fairs, conducting market surveys. But in a world of increasing competition, liberalization and globalization, our export promotion strategy and drive should now be improving response time, constant rethinking of production methods, producing new designs and also flag Mauritian products as being socially compliant, eco-friendly thus protecting and sustaining the green environment, and respecting international norms and standards. These should form part of our product strength, competitive advantage pushing towards our branding strategy culminating into what I mentioned earlier – the “Made with care” concept.
We have created the Fashion and Design Institute and we are supporting initiatives towards a Green and Sustainable Industry.
EM Schemes
I am also aware that in its efforts to achieve our goals, Enterprise Mauritius has introduced last year several schemes namely the Marketing Trip Scheme, the Support to upgrading of standards, quality and packaging (PQSP Scheme) and The Technology Diffusion scheme, this in addition to the Enterprise Development Fund. Under these schemes 211 applications have been approved involving financial assistance of nearly Rs 60 million in the form of grants. While I appreciate these efforts, Enterprise Mauritius should innovate further by bringing new strategies for export promotion and growth.
The Award Ceremony
As regards the present Award ceremony, the name of the winners of the Brand Development Grant will be announced in a few moments. I take this opportunity to congratulate the winners in advance and wish best of luck for those who have participated but have not been among the five selected. I am given to understand that the quality of the presentation for the 2009 edition was very good and more applications from SMES were received. I take this opportunity to request Enterprise Mauritius to improve on the scheme for the next edition by reserving part of the allocated funds dedicated exclusively to SMEs. This will motivate more participation and give more chances for upcoming firms.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you for your attention and before ending may I again congratulate the winners, and encourage all entrepreneurs to apply for the next edition of the Brand Development Grant.
19 February 2010.
MINISTER OF INDUSTRY, SCIENCE
AND RESEARCH
Award Ceremony
For the Second Edition of
Brand Development Grant
Friday 18 February 2010
at 17 00 hrs
Le Sirius, Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel
Caudan
The Chairman of Enterprise Mauritius
Mr S. Ragen, PS of my Ministry
CEO of Enterprise Mauritius
Chairpersons and CEOs of Industry Associations
Members of the Board of Enterprise Mauritius
Members of the Media
Ladies and Gentlemen
Good afternoon.
It gives me great pleasure to be associated to this second edition of the Brand Development Grant Award ceremony which is now an annual feature of Enterprise Mauritius. I was present in January 2009,at the Award Ceremony of the First phase of the Brand Development Grant Scheme.
Branding
L & G , the business environment has become increasingly global and competition is also at a global scale. Not only companies but also nations are using branding as one of the most sophisticated and strategic tool to promote their products and services.
Internationally the concept of Branding has emerged as a very powerful marketing tool for products and services, institutions as well as nations.
Branding forms an integral part of our overall strategy to reposition the industrial sector as an entrepreneurial technology and innovation based industrial sector. This aspect has clearly been underscored in our new Industrial and SME Strategic Plan 2010-2013.
The American Marketing Association (AMA) defines a brand as a “name, term, sign, symbol or design, or a combination of them intended to identify the goods and services of one seller or group of sellers and to differentiate them from those of other sellers”.
Brand elements also include colour schemes, typeface, slogans, and commercial jingles.
Some famous people are even considered brands. For example, Michael Jordan, Cher, Tiger Woods, and Donald Trump all enjoy the status of “being the brand”. Even Asian personalities like Ashwarya Rai or A.R. Rahman are Brand icons.
Branding is not about competition, about being better than your competitiors; it is about being unique to your customers. It builds a special emotional equation with your customers. Your brand resides in their hearts and minds.
Branding creates the “memory hook” for your customers .You may have heard the term “mindshare”. When someone needs certain products and services, your brand comes naturally to their minds. Over time you build trust and loyalty which are everlasting.
But it is vital that you keep to the promises you make through your Brand image. There must be congruence in your communication about what you promise and what you deliver.
To-day, it is an established and recognized strategic response towards achieving superior performance, outstanding outcomes and excellence. And to stand out of the crowd
Branding Mauritius
In this context, the Government of Mauritius has come forward with its Brand “Maurice c’est un plaisir”, India with its Brand Name “Incredible India”, Thailand as “The Land of smiles” or Singapore promoting itself as “Uniquely Singapore”. The idea behind branding Mauritius is not only to sell the island principally as a tourist destination but also side by side sell a host of other typically Mauritian products that can attract tourists namely its ethnic food, handicrafts, high quality textile and clothing products and exclusive jewellery products. To this end my Ministry is working on the sub brand for manufactured products – the “Made with Care” concept.
We wish in the long run that locally manufactured products one day become as internationally known brands as those reputed ones like Coca Cola, Pepsi, Toyota, Nissan, Gucci, Lacoste, Christian Dior, Dell, Accer, Microsoft just to name a few which are present in Mauritius.
An asset
Brands are powerful wealth creators as sales of branded products bring much more profits to those companies who possess good brands compared to those companies which sell similar but unbranded products. Therefore a strong brand is invaluable as the battle for customers intensifies day by day.
As entrepreneurs who want to boost your sales and enter the international markets, you must understand the needs and wants of your customers and prospects and integrate your brand strategies at every point of public contact.
You should ensure that the brand that you have created or want to create resides within the hearts and minds of customers, clients, and prospects. It is the sum of their experiences and perceptions, some of which you can influence and make them become the source of a promise to your consumer.
EM Initiatives
I am therefore happy with the initiatives which Enterprise Mauritius has taken since 2008 to include among their support schemes, the award of a brand development grant of up to One million rupees to the best five initiatives taken towards internationalization of local brands.
However such initiatives are not enough. More innovative strategies should be devised so as to link SMEs into the main stream of industrial development. The end result should be focused on their achieving export readiness.
The vision of MISR
The initiatives of EM are line with the aims and objectives of my Ministry. As Minister for Industry, Science and Research, I always emphasized that to have a modern and vibrant industry; we need to invest on Research and Development. R&D should not be limited to scientific innovation or technology but also investing in researching, defining, and building a brand.
In the Industrial and SME Strategic Plan 2009 -2013, I have spelt out that the priorities of my Ministry are to integrate all sectors of the economy into the global value chain. For years now, Enterprise Mauritius has been undertaking export promotion mainly by organizing participation of Mauritian enterprises in trade fairs, conducting market surveys. But in a world of increasing competition, liberalization and globalization, our export promotion strategy and drive should now be improving response time, constant rethinking of production methods, producing new designs and also flag Mauritian products as being socially compliant, eco-friendly thus protecting and sustaining the green environment, and respecting international norms and standards. These should form part of our product strength, competitive advantage pushing towards our branding strategy culminating into what I mentioned earlier – the “Made with care” concept.
We have created the Fashion and Design Institute and we are supporting initiatives towards a Green and Sustainable Industry.
EM Schemes
I am also aware that in its efforts to achieve our goals, Enterprise Mauritius has introduced last year several schemes namely the Marketing Trip Scheme, the Support to upgrading of standards, quality and packaging (PQSP Scheme) and The Technology Diffusion scheme, this in addition to the Enterprise Development Fund. Under these schemes 211 applications have been approved involving financial assistance of nearly Rs 60 million in the form of grants. While I appreciate these efforts, Enterprise Mauritius should innovate further by bringing new strategies for export promotion and growth.
The Award Ceremony
As regards the present Award ceremony, the name of the winners of the Brand Development Grant will be announced in a few moments. I take this opportunity to congratulate the winners in advance and wish best of luck for those who have participated but have not been among the five selected. I am given to understand that the quality of the presentation for the 2009 edition was very good and more applications from SMES were received. I take this opportunity to request Enterprise Mauritius to improve on the scheme for the next edition by reserving part of the allocated funds dedicated exclusively to SMEs. This will motivate more participation and give more chances for upcoming firms.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you for your attention and before ending may I again congratulate the winners, and encourage all entrepreneurs to apply for the next edition of the Brand Development Grant.
19 February 2010.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Beyond Politics
Politics has many meanings and often it is mired in all kinds of confusions.To a large majority of people,politics boils down to a race for power.
How often is there a deep reflection about the true purpose of politics?In the absence of any such such reflection,the debate about politics becomes monotonous and limitative.It leads to loss of interest and yet Politics is at the very heart of the kind of society we want to live in future...a society where people will have opportunities to see their potential to blossom.
For this to happen there is need for visionary leaders who can take the people to higher planes of reflection and action.
This is a priority for all those who think well and want to do well for their countries.
How often is there a deep reflection about the true purpose of politics?In the absence of any such such reflection,the debate about politics becomes monotonous and limitative.It leads to loss of interest and yet Politics is at the very heart of the kind of society we want to live in future...a society where people will have opportunities to see their potential to blossom.
For this to happen there is need for visionary leaders who can take the people to higher planes of reflection and action.
This is a priority for all those who think well and want to do well for their countries.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Some one very near n dear
Who is that one ,unique person who is always in yr mind?
We take this for granted most of the
time?It is only when we are far away or
facing some difficult situation,that we go through that test?We want someone to whom we can talk
and open our hearts.And that is when we undergo that test:Who is the person
nearest and dearset to you?I know about myself.How about you?
Run the test next time when you are away or you find yourself in a diffcult
situation.....and you are sure to find the
answer to this question.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Obama and my Happy Moment
I listened to President Obama's first State of the Union address and he spoke of many issues of direct concern to Americans and also to the world at large,among 3which Education was one.
He put particular emphasis on a World Class Education for Americans to come out of poverty.He also emphasised the need for the promotion of Science and Math in the schools system.
In 2005,I was the Minister of Education and Human Resources of Mauritius,I started implementing an ambitious Educational Reform agenda for a World Class Education for All.I also initiated a project for all students of the Secondary Schools to take a Science subject upto Form V(Age 16/17).
Quality and Equity were main considerations.Those who had the potential to achieve better standards needed to be encouraged whilst those having difficulties had to be catered for .
No school system can adopt a One-Size Fits -All approach in addressing the needs of our children.The system has to be organised to address the differentiated needs of the children.
A vocal minority in the media and certain specific groups with vested interests came up with the argument that the reform was catering exclusively for the elite group.No sensible Minister of Education could adopt such policies.
I am happy that President Obama has recognised that we have to set high standards and adopt strategies to reach them.There is no point in setting standards that instead of raisng performance can in fact do the contrary.
A new idea often has to go through 3 stages: Opposition,Criticism and Acceptance.
I hope with time people will recognise the wisdom of the reform I introduced
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Inner Voice
There are so many issues about which we have so many things to say.And maybe some ideas can really crop up and make a major difference.But it would seem that we have moved into a culture where listening is no longer a quality.Listening is no more looked upon as an opportunity .Rather it has become a form of nuisance .It has become a liability.So the reaction to the possibility of a new idea is :Why listen?
This is a world of complexity and nobody can claim to hold the answer to everything.Networking is a must and open-mindedness an absolute necessity.Without these conditions,problems will not be resolved;or simply solved in a sub-optimal manner.
There is now need for a new kind of interpersonal relations starting with less talking and moe listening.
Then we have this habit of people getting locked in all kinds of arguments,not focusssing on problem solving rather on showmanship of superiority,and making others look inferior> What is all this?
But giving up is not the answer.We have to try harder to get listening on the agenda.
Without listening ,a lot is lost.Can we afford such waste?
This is a world of complexity and nobody can claim to hold the answer to everything.Networking is a must and open-mindedness an absolute necessity.Without these conditions,problems will not be resolved;or simply solved in a sub-optimal manner.
There is now need for a new kind of interpersonal relations starting with less talking and moe listening.
Then we have this habit of people getting locked in all kinds of arguments,not focusssing on problem solving rather on showmanship of superiority,and making others look inferior> What is all this?
But giving up is not the answer.We have to try harder to get listening on the agenda.
Without listening ,a lot is lost.Can we afford such waste?
Thursday, January 21, 2010
People
Everyday we meet people,talk to people .We agree with some, disagree with others and simply remain indifferent with a few .
But what remains a mystery to me is when people say A to you and then do exactly the opposite of what they say i.e they do B
Why?
Are they sick? Are they having some form of amnaesia....they forget what they said earlier?What is the motivation?
Having come across such situations,I thought of tackling it by adopting some degree of formality.When I feel that such problem will occur,I simply make a note so as to have a point of reference.
Now this makes the other person annoyed and angry.Then I ask why?
Next time,it becomes easier to crosscheck and put things inperspective.This is not to the liking of those who do not honour their words .They feel very insecure and lose their temper.
That's beyond one's control. But it's a pity that people behave in such an erratic manner
People will remain people Unpredictable The more we know someone the more we realise how little we know people.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
A Sad Departure
Life is the most precious gift of God to Mankind.And yet there are these unfortunate accidents that deprive us of this gift and cause a lot of pain to near and dear ones
When the phone rang this morning,little did I expect that it would be the sad news of the death of the son of a close friend of mine - a schoolmate of my secondary school days.
I had no idea of the cause of the death.I knew that the son was about a year older than my own daughter.
I tried to figure out the cause.Could it be due to an incurable disease?An accident?I kept guessing.
When I went to his place,my friend informed me that the young man had committed suicide.A terrible loss.......a person in the spring of his life.Immediately,I asked myself what could have been the reason.Out of consideration for my friend in those moments,I did not ask him the reason.He just mentioned that that there was no indication of the tragedy.It came so suddenly.
This is not the first case of a youth committing the irreparable.In recent times ,there have been a few cases.What drives young people to have recourse to the final solution?
We need to stop and figure out where the problem lies before we have to deplore other tragedies.Life is too beautiful to be wasted...so young.
When the phone rang this morning,little did I expect that it would be the sad news of the death of the son of a close friend of mine - a schoolmate of my secondary school days.
I had no idea of the cause of the death.I knew that the son was about a year older than my own daughter.
I tried to figure out the cause.Could it be due to an incurable disease?An accident?I kept guessing.
When I went to his place,my friend informed me that the young man had committed suicide.A terrible loss.......a person in the spring of his life.Immediately,I asked myself what could have been the reason.Out of consideration for my friend in those moments,I did not ask him the reason.He just mentioned that that there was no indication of the tragedy.It came so suddenly.
This is not the first case of a youth committing the irreparable.In recent times ,there have been a few cases.What drives young people to have recourse to the final solution?
We need to stop and figure out where the problem lies before we have to deplore other tragedies.Life is too beautiful to be wasted...so young.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Media and Politics
Media has come to play a pervasive role and even an invasive role in the life of people.So long as they adopt high standards of professionalism,they constitute a pillar of modern societies.
But more and more,there seems to be a new culture of sensationalism gripping the media world.More than real ,verifiable news reporting,there seems to be greater emphasis on story telling type of news.Many articles being published are just collection of what has been herad or read elsewhere.
How often are the media people going on the ground to investigate and then report?
Even when they do report, do they give both sides of the story?
Then, Editors who wield so much power in deciding what to publish and not to publish,are they exercising the high standards of professionalism expected of them?
Take for example everything,almost,being written about politics and politicians....the picture being painted is all the politicians are crooks,wallowing in corruption and all kinds of wrong-doings?Is that really so ?
What is the share of responsibility responsibility of the media as the custodians of public conscience in this rot?
It's always comfortable to criticise and paint the picture all black bu people who live in glass house should think twice before they throw stones.
All this boils down to Professionalism and High Ethical Standards ?Do they exist and are they being adhered to?
But more and more,there seems to be a new culture of sensationalism gripping the media world.More than real ,verifiable news reporting,there seems to be greater emphasis on story telling type of news.Many articles being published are just collection of what has been herad or read elsewhere.
How often are the media people going on the ground to investigate and then report?
Even when they do report, do they give both sides of the story?
Then, Editors who wield so much power in deciding what to publish and not to publish,are they exercising the high standards of professionalism expected of them?
Take for example everything,almost,being written about politics and politicians....the picture being painted is all the politicians are crooks,wallowing in corruption and all kinds of wrong-doings?Is that really so ?
What is the share of responsibility responsibility of the media as the custodians of public conscience in this rot?
It's always comfortable to criticise and paint the picture all black bu people who live in glass house should think twice before they throw stones.
All this boils down to Professionalism and High Ethical Standards ?Do they exist and are they being adhered to?
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Crimes in Mauritius
It seems there's a new pattern in crimes being committed in Mauritius. This is illustrated by a few recent crimes that have been committed. it's important to reflect on this phenomenon and to suggest effective ways and means to tackle this new pattern of crimes. This must be a responsibility for one and all.
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