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The islands of Seychelles are a melting pot of cultures and races. Consequently the Seychellois constitute one of the most cosmopolitan societies in the world. Bask in the warmth and geniality of the people of this island nation! Seychelles is a multi-racial nation yet completely integrated. A mixture of European, Asian and Africans, the Seychelles are descendants of the first French settlers, African slaves, British sailors and traders. These races were later enriched by Indian, Chinese and Arab traders. |
The common language is Creole, which is the result of early French influence and administration. Today the national languages of the country are English, French and Creole since 1981. The choice for both English and French can be explained by the successive influence and administration of both nations since 1770. With a per capita income of US$6500, Seychelles enjoys one of the highest standards of living in Africa and one of the highest literacy rates. School is mandatory for every child under the age of 16 years. Adult literacy is 85%. Healthcare and education are free of charge and the average life expectancy is 70 years. On the Human Development Index, Seychelles is placed among the highest in the developing world. As the young nation enters the new millennium in the 21st century many have expressed their admiration for the social progress under the 'Seychelles Way of Life' which is said to be the best. All these developments have had an impact on the way of life of the young nation, which only a quarter of a century ago was struggling to survive with a traditional copra and cinnamon cash crop economy. Today, the dynamic people of Seychelles are contributing to national development by investing in various fields like the tuna & the hotel industry. Inspite of all this, even today the Seychellois live so close to nature that the environment is often the main theme in artistic statements. The works of the many artists is a testimony to that. The images and sounds produced often evoke respect and appreciation of their country and the special relationship they have with their surroundings.
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