macoss-newsletter
Transcription
macoss-newsletter
Initiating a Sustainable Development Culture PROJECT 10 S O MM AI RE 03 MACOSS implements “Les Valeurs Citoyennes de Maurice Ile Durable” by launching the Rainwater Harvesting Project and Sommaire Project 10 04 Editorial Editorial by Geerish Bucktowonsing, Chairperson of MACOSS 06 Project 11 03 10 Membership Forum – Consultation with Member Organisations in regards to Strategy and Reform for MACOSS 07 Project 12 Open dialogue Forum on ‘Stregthening Family Values’ at Rose Belle and Celebration of the International Day of Families 2014 at Roche Bois 11 Project 14 Dialogue Interculturel à l’île Maurice : Défis et Perspectives 12 Project 15 Project 16 14 Project 17 14 Project 18 Non Award MQA course on Values in Healthcare for carers working in the disability sector Joint Seminar MACOSS/ DCP/ EU on Advocacy and Dialogue EISA country mission in Mauritius related to the APRM 15 13 Inauguration of an OpenAir Hortitherapy at Verdun by OpenMind SADC Gender Protocol Summit and Awards 2014 15 Celebration of World Blood Donor Day 2014 by ABDO 16 graced the function. Hon Devanand Virahsawmy, GOSK, congratulated MACOSS for this initiative and stated that to “Save Mother Earth” there is need to change the mindset and behavior of people and that we all have to think outside the box to ensure a better future for our children. He is very happy that MACOSS has sent a project proposal to the MID fund to equip other member affiliates having centres. He promised his support to ensure that MACOSS goes forward with this project. World Environment Day 2014 In that respect, MACOSS intends to equip Member Affiliates having a Centre with a Rain Water Harvesting System. The main objectives are to provide a simple system for rainwater harvesting which can be easily implemented; to make the NGOs collect rainwater and make use of the water for purposes other than drinking, to make the NGOs to make savings on its water bills; and to encourage NGOs to maintain and keep kitchen clean. Welfare for Disabled Persons 11 13 MACOSS has embarked in a Rainwater Harvesting Project with the view to create a rainwater utilization based society for sustainable development and which goes in line with the philosophy of ‘Maurice Ile Durable’. Water is essential for the environment, food security and sustainable Development. MACOSS is concerned in its mission to better serve its beneficiaries and to help in constructing Mauritius into a Sustainable Island and after the development of ‘Les Valeurs Citoyennes de Maurice Ile Durable’ by the Council, we are now implementing its first value which is ‘L’Eau C’est la Vie – Ne la Gaspillons pas’ through the Rainwater Harvesting Project in partnership with Rotary Club of Ebène and Secure Works. Dialogue on the Concept of “One People One Nation” in regards to Electoral Reforms Project 13 MACOSS implements “les Valeurs Citoyennes de Maurice Ile Durable” by launching the Rainwater Harvesting Project Projects and Activities delivered in the session 2013-2014 under the Chairmanship of Mr Geerish Bucktowonsing For Phase 1 ( June 2014 – August 2014), a survey has being carried out by service providers and Rotary Club of Ebene to finalise choice as per feasibility and is currently equipping 15 member affiliates in different districts of the Island with this system. These NGOs are: Association des Malades et des Handicapés de l’Est (i) (ii) Association des Parents de Déficients Auditifs (APDA), (iii) Association des Parents pour la Réhabilitation des Infirmes Moteurs (APRIM) (iv) Association of Disability of Service Providers (v) Centre de Solidarité pour une Nouvelle Vie (vi) Dr Idrice Goomany Centre for the Prevention & Treatment of Alcoholism and Drug Addiction (vii) Eastern Welfare Association for Disabled, (viii) Fondation Georges Charles (ix) Gandhi Breedh Ashram (x) Mouvement Pour le Progrès de Roche Bois (MPRB) (xi) Physically Handicapped Welfare Association (PHWA) (xii) Shelter for Women and Children in Distress Trust Fund (xiii) Society for Aid to Children Inoperable in Mauritius (SACIM) (xiv) SOS Children’s Village Mauritius; and (xv) Southern Handicapped Association (SHA) The launch of the first NGO Rainwater Harvesting system was held on the occasion of the International Environment Day 2014 on Wednesday 4 June 2014 at the SOS Children’s Village and Hon. Devanand Virahsawmy- GOSK, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development and Me Rashad Racheed Daureeawoo, Mayor of Beau Bassin – Rose Hill To mark the World Environment Day 2014, MACOSS participated at an Exhibition organised by the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development on 5 and 6 June 2014 at Octave Wiehe Auditorium, Reduit. Visitors including students from both primary and secondary schools were provided with information on the importance and benefits of the Rainwater Harvesting System. MACOSS took advantage of this exhibition to promote the seven values of “Les Valeurs Citoyennes de Maurice Ile Durable” which are: L’Eau c’est la vie, ne la gaspillons pas La terre c’est notre mère nourricière, ne la polluons pas La nature c’est sacré ne la détruisons pas Notre pays n’est pas une déchetterie réduisons, réutilisons et recyclons nos déchets • Réduisons notre empreinte carbone, produisons et consommons des produits locaux • Notre diversité culturelle, c’est notre identité apprenons à vivre dans la tolérance • L’Engagement c’est notre vocation, encourageons la vie associative afin d’échanger et de partager une vie meilleure. • • • • CDs and brochures on “Les Valeurs Citoyennes de Maurice Ile Durable” were also distributed to all visitors including students. MACOSS On the move - August 2014 3 Editorial du Chairperson de la MACOSS Un agenda “ Notre priorité majeur à la MACOSS aujourd’hui, est de développer un plan d’action sur 3 ans. ” Geerish Bucktowonsing Global Le souci majeur de la MACOSS aujourd’hui, est de développer un plan d’action établi sur un minimum de 3 ans. Ce serait un grand pas en avant car on aurait une vision claire des priorités de la plateforme. Il faut passer au « Thinking Beyond 2015 ». En effet, l’atteinte des objectifs du Millénaire pour le Développement a été plus ou moins une réussite et plusieurs projets ont pu être effectués tant au niveau international que national. A Maurice, des succès été enregistrés pour les objectifs 3, 6 et 7 que sont respectivement la promotion de l’égalité des sexes et l’autonomisation des femmes, le combat contre le VIH/Sida, le paludisme et d’autres maladies enfin, la promotion d’un environnement durable. Le plus important à souligner est que ces engagements nous ont permis de mettre en place un agenda global surtout en ce qui concerne la sensibilisation de l’opinion publique sur de nombreux points tels que les changements climatiques, la sécurité alimentaire, les droits de l’Homme etc. C’est avec beaucoup de joie que nous avons constaté que le slogan de la MACOSS « We Seek to Serve » est aujourd’hui revigoré. Le conflit israélo-palestinien doit nous interpeller tous, il est impensable que les décideurs n’arrivent pas à régler un problème qui perdure depuis plus de 40 ans. En moins d’un mois, près de 2000 morts ont été enregistré (Palestiniens en majorité et Israéliens) sans parler des dégâts matériels. Certaines familles ont trouvé la mort, les plus affectés sont les femmes et les enfants. Le plus déplorable est le fait que les frappes se sont declenchées lors du mois de Ramadan. Au niveau des ONG et de la société civile, nous continuerons à prêcher la promotion d’entente mutuelle ainsi que l’instauration d’une culture de paix à tous les niveaux. Nous devons éviter de tels conflits, Maurice doit rester un exemple dans le monde. A ce jour, nous avons pu développer un partenariat dynamique entre la MACOSS, ses sponsors, ses membres affiliés et l’Etat qui nous permet de réaliser un record de projet d’activités dans un esprit de mettre le service au-dessus de toute autre considération. 30 activités réalisées En effet, nous avons réussi à réaliser plus de 30 activités depuis le démarrage du nouveau comité jusqu’à ce jour. Ceci n’aurait pu être possible sans l’appui de nos sponsors qui ont toujours soutenu de façon spontanée les multiples activités de notre organisation parmi lesquelles figurent la promotion des valeurs familiales à Roche Bois, les cours de formation ou encore le projet national de l’installation de 15 Rainwater Harvesting System dans des Centres des ONG à travers le pays. Une mention spéciale au Rotary Club d’Ebène & Secureworks pour avoir parrainé en partie ce projet, ce qui a permis sa réalisation. La vision du Premier Ministre de faire de Maurice une île durable est noble, mais cela ne pourra se faire sans la pleine et entière participation de tous les citoyens et citoyennes de Maurice. Au lendemain de la déclaration de cette vision en 2008, avec quelques amis volontaires, nous avons pu développer le principe des valeurs citoyennes dont le premier stipule « L’eau C’est la vie, ne la gaspillons pas». Aujourd’hui, en faisant la promotion de ce projet Rainwater 4 MACOSS On the move - August 2014 avoir à l’esprit que le potentiel principal de Maurice réside dans ses ressources humaines et nombre sont les organisations qui ont besoin de renouvellement d’effectif. Les jeunes doivent être mis à contribution, nous avons le devoir de les encourager à s’y mettre. Hommage à une Harvesting System, nous apportons notre contribution à la réalisation de cette vision pour aider à sauver la planète. Nous ne devons pas nous voiler la face, pendant que Singapour enregistre une perte de 5% d’eau, Maurice est à près de 50% avec des fuites sur les conduites d’eau. Selon les experts, 55% du volume d’eau utilisé ne nécessite pas une qualité d’eau potable et que moins de 3% de l’eau rendue potable, sert à l’alimentation humaine, nous comprenons que nous devons nous atteler à exploiter près de 3 700 millions mètres cubes d’eau qui arrosent le pays chaque année, encore que la consommation en moyenne d’eau en 2013 a été de 165 litres par tête d’habitant, comparativement à 153 litres en Europe selon la National Economic and Social Council (NESC). Il est impératif de développer davantage ce projet en vue d’utiliser les eaux de pluies à d’autres fins à savoir : le nettoyage, le lavage de voiture, l’arrosage etc... Jeunesse: investir dans la formation Une attention particulière devra être accordée à la jeunesse. Cette dernière devra être sensibilisée à un engagement plus considérable au niveau des ONG. Ne dit –on pas que la jeunesse représente l’avenir ? D’ailleurs, je suis moi-même un produit de la fédération jeunesse de Port Louis. Je me réjouis des invitations des organisations de jeunesse et ainsi l’occasion de découvrir de visu leur engagement. Nous pouvons citer la Mauritius Council of Youth Leaders, Youth Network of Mauritius, Youth Empowerment Forum International, MYF, Muslim Youth Federation, Youth For Christ entre autres. Ils investissent dans la formation des jeunes qui ont besoin d’avoir leurs capacités renforcées afin de s’engager davantage dans le social, cela est d’une importance capitale car la génération des jeunes née après 2000 symbolise l’avenir de ce pays. Nous devons toujours combattante Dans une ère où se développe de plus en plus l’individualisme, nous voudrions rendre hommage à une combattante du social qui nous a malheureusement quittés. Il s’agit de l’activiste et avocate Radha Gungaloo, observatrice de la société mauricienne, militante des droits de la femme et fondatrice de l’ONG SOS Femmes, qui à quelques niveaux que ce soit a tendu la main à de nombreuses personnes. Nous devrons nous souvenir de son dévouement et sa vision. Personnellement, je ne peux oublier les mots qu’elle prononça à mon égard au lendemain de mon élection à la tête de la MACOSS : « …La jeunesse doit s’engager pour façonner la société de demain… ». Repose en Paix Radha, tu as inspiré plusieurs, la lutte continue. Je terminerai en mentionnant qu’il est impératif que nous nous engagions dans l’engagement social en évitant de dénigrer qui que ce soit, mais plus, en nous inspirant de modèles forts, des modèles d’engagement, des modèles de volontaires professionnels, faire notre part, apporter notre touche, notre pierre à l’édifice pour la construction d’une MACOSS On the move - August 2014 5 PROJECT 11 PROJECT 12 Membership Forum – Consultation with Member Organisations in regards to Strategy and Reform for MACOSS MACOSS organised a Membership Forum on 6 March 2014 at the Octave Wiéhe Auditorium, Réduit as there was a general consensus to Reform MACOSS. The objectives of the Forum were to bring on board all member affiliates to discuss on elements of reform and to develop a strategic plan 2014-2017 to better equip MACOSS to enable it to face the new challenges and be the dynamic platform for the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Mauritius. 125 representatives of member affiliates attended and contributed in the Membership Forum. The Forum was a starting point for sharing views and defining new focus to complete a new branding exercise of the Council. Representatives of CSOs deliberated on the following issues: • • • Legal Framework, Strategy and operational Management Management of Finance Accountability & Ethics. Moreover, the findings of a survey carried out with member affiliates and interviews carried out with relevant stakeholders by Strategy and Reform Committee of MACOSS were also shared. Mrs. Jane Valls gave an exposé on ethics. She stressed on the need for NGOs to be ethical in all their dealings. NGOs, she said should have a Code of ethics to maintain a high standard of integrity. The Code of Ethics provides a meaningful set of principles and standards to guide the NGOs actions and decisions. She stated that NGOS among others must have clear policies on recruitment, vetting of staff or members, procurement, conflict of interest, gifts, internal investigations disciplinary code and procedures. Mr. Jacques Dinan, Coordinator Caritas Africa made a presentation on best Practices on Transparency and Accountability. He stated that NGOs should foster transparency, maintain integrity and promote voluntarism. He added that NGOs have to be service oriented, respectful 6 MACOSS On the move - August 2014 Open dialogue Forum on ‘Stregthening Family Values’ at Rose Belle and Celebration of the International Day of Families 2014 at Roche Bois of human rights, passion for a cause, accountability, show open collaboration as well as work for public interest and be truthful to causes. Moreover, with regards to financial accountability he stated that NGOs must have the ability to account for money properly, show how money has been used and have financial reports which are not misleading. In this session, MACOSS is laying emphasis on the importance of family. We are stressing on strengthening a number of values that are important in the progress of the family in Mauritius. Mrs. Shivani B. D. Georgijevic, Lecturer at University of Mauritius provided an overview on Modern Legal Framework. She stated that legal framework can be changed according to what is needed in the current environment or can be implemented according to the existing laws. She went through the four clauses of MACOSS Act of 1960 namely the Executive Committee; the Membership, the Education/Training and Independence. According to her, to have good governance in MACOSS a dynamic MACOSS Act with the following should be considered: (i) A 2nd Open Dialogue Forum on “Strengthening our Family Values” on 29 March 2014 in the Lecture Theatre, Sookdeo Bissoondoyal State College - Rose Belle. (i) In this context, MACOSS organized: This event was graced by the presence of Hon Doctor Vasant Kumar Bunwaree, Minister of Education and Human Resources. Four resourceful personalities addressed the audience on the following topics: 1. Executive Committee: Section 7 item 10 to add “at least” as it shows a level of flexibility. (ii) Membership: Admissibility criteria may be made to apply for continuity of membership (iii) Education/Training: Training can be conducted with respect to the provisions of the law relevant to NGOs and management thereof; this would help to professionalise organisations which are members of MACOSS and the work they accomplish. (iv) Independence: MACOSS has to be independent in its function guaranteed by its constitution; the nature of the work of MACOSS and its members in representing civil society, its welfare, political involvement and activities should not be mixed with work undertaken as members of MACOSS. All these can be secured in the law. Transparency is another essential factor that can be addressed by law. Professor Soodursun Jugessur, CSK, GOSK Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the University of Mauritius and President of Sukhi Parivaar, ‘Family Values Crisis’. 2. Mr Rajendra Reedha, Executive Committee Member of MACOSS, ‘Spirituality and Family’ 3. Mr Goolam Cader Ally, Chairperson of Sports Education Nationwide Association (SENA), “Les valeurs que nous enseignent le sport’ 4. Mr Munsoo Kurrimboccus, Chairperson of Youth Network Mauritius, “Youth and Values’. An exhibition on family values was also displayed by the “Indian Ocean Centre for Human Values in Family Life” and the Youth Network Mauritius. (ii) Celebration of the International Day of Families at Roche Bois on 15 May 2014 . To mark the International Day of Families which is celebrated worldwide each year on 15th May in 1993, MACOSS in collaboration with the ‘Mouvement pour le Progrès de Roche Bois’ (MPRB) celebrated this special day 2014 at the Seat of MPRB at GMS Marcel Gueho Street, Cité Roche .The theme was ‘Nou la Fors C Nou Fami’. Families and NGOs of the Northern Region attended this event. Hon. Shakeel Razack Mohamed, Minister of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment honored this event by his presence. A Keynote Address was made by His Grace The Most Reverend Ian Ernest Bishop of Mauritius and the Archbishop of Indian Ocean and Mrs Gayeetree Samboo, MSK, Chairperson of Indian Ocean Centre for Human Values in Family Life gave a brief exposé on ‘La famille Source du Bonheur’. Reverend Ernest withdrew the attention on the important role of each member of the family and stated that there should not be any ‘demission parental’ and abandons children. Cakes were distributed to 50 children present at the event. Mr. Dhurvandranand Seethiah, Lecturer at University of Mauritius made a presentation on Strategy and Operational Management. He explained what is strategic planning and the role of vision in strategy. He defined Strategic Planning as the systematic process of envisioning a desired future, translating this vision into broadly defined goals or objectives and set a sequence of steps to achieve them. The Chairperson and members of the Council thank Member Affiliates for their participation in the forum. The Strategy and Reform Committee is now preparing a Strategic Plan with the help a consultant for the upcoming 3 years based on the recommendations of the Membership Forum and the Survey. MACOSS On the move - August 2014 7 AC TIV IT IES Project 10 Project 11 A CTI V I TI ES MACOSS implements les Valeurs Citoyennes de Maurice Ile Durable by launching the Rainwater Harvesting Project and Sommaire Membership Forum – Consultation with Member Organisations in regards to Strategy and Reform for MACOSS Project 12 Open dialogue Forum on ‘Stregthening Family Values’ at Rose Belle and Celebration of the International Day of Families 2014 at Roche Bois Project 13 Dialogue on the Concept of “One People One Nation” in regards to Electoral Reforms 8 MACOSS On the move - August 2014 Project 14 Dialogue Interculturel à l’île Maurice : Défis et Perspectives Project 15 Welfare for Disabled Persons Project 16 Non Award MQA course on Values in Healthcare for carers working in the disability sector Project 18 EISA country mission in Mauritius related to the APRM MACOSS On the move - August 2014 9 PROJECT 13 PROJECT 14 Dialogue on the Concept of “One People One Nation” in regards to Electoral Reforms MACOSS is concerned with the Strengthening of Democracy in Mauritius. Following the “White Paper on Electoral Reform”, the Council organized a dialogue with its member affiliates on 2nd May 2014 on the concept of “One People One Nation”. This platform provided opportunity to collect views and comments of the 40 participating affiliates on the Best Reform to consolidate Democracy. The major points discussed are the following: 1.The delimitation of Constituencies Members present stated that there is disparity in the electoral members in constituencies and there is need to have constituencies with equal number of voters. There was general agreement that the Electoral Commission need to review the system that dates back to the Barnwell Commission of 1966. It was also proposed to have one member per constituency with a total of 70 to 80 constituencies. 2. Registration of Political Parties Political Parties should be recognized and registered entities (Registrar of Associations among others) and to ensure that accountability prevails. Hence, be in line with the AntiCorruption Act. 3.Qualification of Candidates It was suggested that at time of registering as candidate, the latter should present a Morality/Character Certificate and he should be a resident of his/her constituency. 4. Gender Representation There is a need to have a representation of more women as candidate in each constituency. 5. Proportional Representative Proportional should also take into consideration Representatives of Civil Society, Trade Unions including fishermen, representatives of agro industry among others and professionals with specific expertise. 6. Term of Office In view to follow example of democracy in USA it was suggested that the mandate for Ministers, Prime Minister and other key positions should not exceed two successive mandates. 7. Regulation and Financing There is a need for transparency and equity in the funding of political parties registered for elections. Political Parties should present their Annual Audited Accounts to the Electoral Commission as well as to the public on demand for transparency and accountability. 10 MACOSS On the move - August 2014 8. Electoral Commission Electoral Commission of Mauritius should be given more power as it is the case in India. This would enable the Commission to enforce Code of Conduct and best practices among all candidates and political parties. The Electoral Commission should be given the power to take actions whenever there is a breach in terms of behavior and filthy language as well as other bad practices. 9. Financing Measures should be taken to prevent political parties from accepting any financing from illegal sources. The issue of money laundering should be addressed. 10. Elections in the Republic of Mauritius It was suggested that a system be set up so that the General Elections, Municipal Councils’ Elections and Village Councilors’ Elections be held in the same period so that the country is not in constant electoral campaigns. 11. Addressing absenteeism and education of voters It was noted that in certain constituencies, there was an increase of voters’ absenteeism. It was recommended to address this issue by making voting “mandatory” and a system of “proxy” to ensure full participation at elections 12. Alternate to Best Loser System It is important to devise the most appropriate system that in the same go guarantee the representations of all Mauritians and attract the best candidates irrespective of caste, colour and creed to lead the country. The proposals were forwarded to the Electoral Reform Unit of the Prime Minister’s Unit for consideration. Dialogue Interculturel à l’ile Maurice : Défis et Perspectives In this world of fast communication where people of different cultures interact daily for various reasons, it is becoming increasingly important to build bridges between people of different cultures. With the view of promoting inter-cultural dialogue among people of different cultures ain Mauritius, the Chairperson of MACOSS has set up a new committee entitled “La promotion de l’inter-culturalité” which is presided by Mrs Allia Syed Hossen-Gooljar, Deputy Chairperson of MACOSS. In the context of the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, MACOSS organized a conference and a half-day workshop entitled “Dialogue Interculturel à l’Ile Maurice – Défis et Perspectives” on Saturday 24 May 2014 at the Municipality of Quatre Bornes. The chief guest was Honourable Mookhessur Choonee, Minister of Arts and Culture. His Worship. Mr. Danen Beemadoo, Mayor of Municipality of Quatre Bornes, also addressed the audience on that occasion. Dr Amina Barkatoolah, International Consultant in Human Resources Management introduced the subject. She gave the meaning of the ‘culture’ which is a system of values, traditions and beliefs which is transmitted from generation to generation. She insisted on the need to differentiate ‘culture’ and ‘religion’. She argued that to promote a genuine intercultural dialogue there is a need to overcome stereotypes. in Mauritius”. Prof Bunwaree talked about the terms that are often used in the press and the media such as ‘Nation Building’, ‘Pays Arc-en-Ciel’. She pointed out that we should be very careful about these terms since very often they do not reflect the reality in Mauritius. She drew the attention of the audience about prejudices which exist in the Mauritian society. However, Prof. Bunwaree thinks that Mauritians do come together when faced with adversity. In fact, during the flash flood in March 2013, Mauritians helped all victims without discrimination. 3. Mrs. Wendy Rose-Gujadhur, Head of Intercultural Department of ICJM made an exposé on “Eduquer les Jeunes à l’Interculturel, Une Nécessité! She talked on the importance of educating the youth on the need of intercultural dialogue. She gave a brief on the situation of intercultural dialogue worldwide. She then talked about the situation in Mauritius and the problem of prejudices faced by some people in Mauritius. She then defined the concept “interculturality”. She stressed on the need to put the youth on board as far as intercultural dialogue is concerned and she gave reasons for including youngsters on this important and sensitive issue. The presentations were followed by 2 group discussions to reflect on the following themes :(i) The following audience: resource persons addressed the 1. Mr Chit Dukhira, President of Selex talked about “Unity in Diversity in Plural Mauritius”. He expressed his feelings on the challenges he encountered when he took post in a new job in town as he came from a village. He explained how he had to adapt to the different styles of living and the attitude of the people. He also stated that he had always collaborated with one another in different projects and always shared the responsibilities with each and everyone irrespective of ethnic background. Quelles sont les conditions selon vous pour arriver à un vrai dialogue des cultures au sein de la République de Maurice ? (ii) Comment communiquer avec l’autre pour amener une ouverture vers d’autres cultures présentes à l’île Maurice ? (iii) Quel est le rôle de l’éducation dans la promotion du dialogue interculturel dans la République de Maurice ? The recommendations gathered during the group discussions were used to produce a report and a copy will be forwarded to the UNESCO to share the Mauritian philosophy on the subject. 2. Prof. Sheila Bunwaree, Professor of Sociology and Development Studies, University of Mauritius made a presentation on “Identity Secularism and Inter-culturality MACOSS On the move - August 2014 11 PROJECT 15 PROJECT 16 Welfare for Disabled Persons In view of improving the welfare of the disabled persons in Mauritius, Mr Geerish Bucktowonsing, Chairperson of MACOSS and Mr Lutchmeecant Soopal, Chairperson of the Welfare of the Disabled Committee had a meeting with Mr Gunputh, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources to take cognizance of conditions and modalities of the Rs 60 million allocated to disabled centres. Following this meeting, a half day interactive meeting with representatives of NGOs working in the disability sector were held on 13 February 2014 in the Training Unit of the Ministry of Social Security, National Solidarity and Reform Institutions. The objectives were : • to inform NGOs about the outputs of the meeting at the Ministry of Education • to gather opinions of the NGOs on the fund allocated to them. • to provide a platform to these NGOs to discuss on the difficulties encountered by persons with disabilities in getting access to shopping malls • to discuss about ways and means to make the malls disabled user friendly 12 MACOSS On the move - August 2014 Non Award MQA course on Values in Healthcare for carers working in the disability sector During a brainstorming session, the NGO leaders expressed their concerns about the disparity between the salary of teachers in primary schools and those working in handicapped centres. NGO representatives were encouraged to enroll themselves on training program at certificate and diploma levels which is run at the Mauritius Institute of Education (MIE) and Mauritius Institute and Training Development (MITD). The Decentralized Corporation Programme (DCP) funded by the European Union and operating under the Ministry of Finance and Economy Development in collaboration with the Mauritius Council of Social Service organized two events on the theme “Policy Advocacy and Dialogue” on 1st and 2nd July 2014 at Gold Crest Hotel, Quatre-Bornes. The accessibility to Mall is a matter of concern. Despite legislation, only a limited number of public buildings are user friendly to disabled people. Difficulties encountered by disabled persons have been communicated to Directors of malls for future possible actions. The High Level Seminar on Policy Dialogue took place on 1 July 2014 and was delivered by Tania DiolleLecturer of the University of Mauritius. 35 NSAs/ NGOs and 5 Senior officials from key ministries namely : Ministry of Social Integration and Economic Empowerment, Ministry of Social Security and Reform Institutions and, Ministry of Education and Human Resources were present. The overall objective of this event were to Sensitize government officials and, NGOs on the benefits of policy dialogue and also, to familiarize the audience with policy dialogue settings. This interaction event was an opportunity (i.e. a platform) where senior officials and NGOs leaders were able to discuss and share best practices to reinforce working relationship that is establishing a line of communication for positive change and moved forward for partnering. On 2 July 2014, the workshop focused on Negotiation skills and techniques for NSAs/NGO leaders. It was carried out by Mr. Geerish Bucktowonsing in his capacity as Professional Manager. Sixty (60) representatives of NSAs/NGOs attended this training. Participants were introduced to negotiation as a technique to decision making. Its importance in the day to day activities of NGOs and were elaborated with appropriate examples. NGOs took cognizance of the best style of negotiations to be adopted in a number of circumstances. (Presentation is available on macoss.intnet.mu) MACOSS On the move - August 2014 13 PROJECT 17 MACOSS partnership with International Agencies Inauguration of an Open Air Hortitherapy at Verdun by OpenMind Joint Seminar MACOSS/ DCP/ EU on Advocacy and Dialogue MACOSS is renewing its programme of training and formation for its member affiliates. For this session, MACOSS in collaboration with Positive Approach to Total Health (P.A.T.H) is currently running a Non Award MQA training on “Values in Health Care” once weekly from 3 July 2014 to 14th August 2014. Due to a number of applications, there will be two batches of training. The first batch has twenty seven representatives of NGOs. The training sessions are delivered on a voluntary basis by Mr Pradeep Jagutpal, MQA registered trainer supported by Mr Dave Dyall, who are respectively the President and Secretary of PATH. The Values in Healthcare training package was designed in the UK and offers social workers and healthcare practitioners a unique blend of experiential group exercises and opportunities for reflection and self-enquiry. With its emphasis on self-care and support, the programme helps participants to identify their own values and discover how their insights can enhance their personal lives and revitalize their work. The materials and activities introduce a number of core values and encourage participants to explore ways of expressing them in their personal lives and professional practice. The learning outcomes will enable the social workers at all levels and in all settings to cope better with their work. This includes addressing the expectations of others as well as their personal responses to situations so helping to prevent problems of burnout, sickness absence and staff retention. MACOSS hopes that such training will enable our carers to learn new techniques and deliver outstanding services to beneficiaries. PROJECT 18 The Chairperson, Mr. Geerish Bucktowonsing was invited at the launching of OpenMind’s Open Air Horticultural Therapy at Verdun. The prominent objective of OpenMind is to promote the welfare of psychologically distressed and vulnerable persons – children and adults – through Art and Nature Therapy. OpenMind focuses on the plight of people suffering psychological disorders. Their condition drives them out of social and economic activities, nips them out of their social environment and often wrenches them from their families and relatives and ultimately condemns them to isolation and seclusion. Through this project sponsored by UNDP, DCP/EU and the US Embassy under the technical monitoring of Fondation Ressources & Nature (FORENA), OpenMind intends to provide soft treatment approach to psychological distress by means of Horticultural Therapy. Customised therapy programmes are devised to reconstruct the self-confidence of beneficiaries and thus facilitate their social integration and adaptation as well as further develop their creative talents and promote their economic and social well- beings. EISA country mission in Mauritius related to the APRM MACOSS facilitated a team of researchers headed by Mr. Grant Masterson, Project Manager: APRM from The Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) in conducting a baseline study through interviews and focus group meetings with selected civil society organizations in Mauritius from 7-8 April 2014. The purpose of this activity was to develop a holistic understanding of the state of local Civil Society Organizations and the way in which they engage with the Government, particularly as it relates to the APRM. EISA is an African Non-Governmental Organisation that has facilitated civil society interactions with the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) since 2004 and embarked on a three year programme (2012 – 2015) to continue support of CSOs efforts to monitor governance processes in African states. One of the key objectives of the programme is to enhance meaningful participation of non-state actors in the APRM. 14 MACOSS On the move - August 2014 SADC Gender Protocol Summit and Awards 2014 MACOSS organized a series of consultations held amongst with: • Civil Society Organizations representatives at Le Suffren • Mr. Irfan Rahman – Electoral Commissioner • Mr. Rajen Bablee – Chairperson of Transparency Mauritius • Mrs. Manda Boolell - Chairperson of NGO Trust Fund • Mr Ajay Sowdagur - Acting Officer in Charge, NGO Tru. st Fund • Mr. I. Jeenghut – Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC); and • Executive Committee Members of MACOSS Their visit was culminated by a press conference animated by Mr Grant Masterson of EISA and Mr Geerish Bucktowonsing, Chairperson of MACOSS on 9 April 2014 at MACOSS. It has been agreed that EISA and MACOSS will now organize a 2 day workshop in Mauritius in August/September 2014 to share all the findings with member affiliates. Celebration of World Blood Donor Day 2014 by ABDO The SADC Gender Protocol Summit and Awards Mauritius National Summit 2014 took place on the 22nd and 23rd of April 2014 at Gold Crest Hotel. The summit was attended by a total of 70 participants (entrants, judges, chairpersons, government entities and civil society organisations including partners); 61 females and 9 males. The summit is a combination of local government, media and Alliance partners who were invited to share their best practices under the three categories and in five themes as follows: • • • • As every year, the World Blood Donor day is celebrated on the 14th June in 76 countries around the world to pay tribute to voluntary blood donors, sponsors, organizers, volunteers and all those who have contributed in one way or the other in saving lives. The focus of this year’s World Blood Donor Day campaign is “Safe blood for saving mothers”. Association of Blood Donation Organisers jointly with different stakeholders of MACOSS commemorated this special day on 14th June 2014 by launching its souvenir magazine at Municipality of Quatre Bornes. Mr. Bucktowonsing, Chairperson of MACOSS was the chief guest for this event and addressed the audience on that day. He stressed on the recognition of volunteers in Mauritius and Worldwide who by their noble actions is helping to save many lives. We are all witnessing an increase in demand for blood at hospitals and clinics due to increase of accidents and complications due to a number of diseases. It is worth noting that Mauritians in all walks of life respond spontaneously whenever there is a blood donation campaign in any region of Mauritius. The Chairperson of MACOSS thanked ABDO for being a pioneer in 1971 and for serving this cause. Gender Based Violence Climate Change Women’s rights Leadership Mr. Bucktowonsing was invited to form part of the panel judging the category in the Leadership Government Women’s Rights. The panel also consisted also of Mr. Brian Glover and Mrs. Nivedita Nathoo. The leadership Winner was Mrs. Soondaree Devi Soborun under the case study: Listening, coaching and advising. Soondaree has been nominated by her MBC staff for her great leadership skills. MACOSS On the move - August 2014 15 ‘Projects and Activities delivered in the session of 2013-2014 under the Chairmanship of Mr. Geerish Bucktowonsing’ SN Month / Year Date Activity Venue Tue 15 Launching of Poverty Eradication Network (PEN) on International Poverty Day Council Chamber of the City of Port Louis Sat 19 Setting up of PEN focal point in Roche Bois MPRB Sun 20 Setting up of PEN focal point in La Laura La Laura 4. Thu 24 Allocation of Flag Days for 2014 to Member Affiliates Council Chamber of the City of Port Louis 5. Thu 7 Sensitisation campaign to fight diabetes on World Diabetes Day Council Chamber of the City of Port Louis Sat 23 Giving a helping hand to Clean Up Mauritius Rivière Céré, Flacq Sat 23 Promotion of Family Values on the theme “Renforcir les Valeurs Familiales /Strengthening our Family Values” FSC Building, Goodlands Wed 27 Workshop on Governance and Integrity in NGOs (MACOSS/NGO TF and ICAC) Training Unit of Ministry of Social Security Thu 5 Celebration of International Volunteer Day 2013 ‘Zenes ek Volontaria’ March – MSC Complex to Municipality of BB Rose Hill Tue 17 Launch of Barometer 2013 (Gender Links in collaboration with MACOSS) Municipal Council of Curepipe Mon 6 Signature of new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MACOSS and Beijing NGO for International Exchanges Visit to NGOs and MACOSS Tue 7 Promoting friendship between Beijing Exchange Program participants and the delegates from Beijing NGO for International Exchanges Gold Crest Thu 23 Launch of Book “Family Crisis – the Happy Family through Family Communion” by Prof Jugessur (Sukhi Parivaar in collaboration with UOM and MACOSS) R. Burrenchobay Lecture Theatre, University of Mauritius, Reduit Thu 13 Interactive Session with NGOs working in the Disability Sector MSS Training Unit, 2nd Fl RSB, P Louis Thu 6 Membership Forum – Consultation with Member Organisations in regards to Strategy and Reform for MACOSS Octave Wiehe Auditorium, Réduit Sat 29 Open dialogue Forum on Strengthening our Family Values Sookdeo Bissoondoyal State College, Rose Belle Mon 7Wed 9 EISA country mission in Mauritius related to the APRM MACOSS Wed 9 Meeting with NGOs in Disability Sector MACOSS Fri 2 Dialogue on the Concept of ‘One People One Nation’ in regards to Electoral Reforms MACOSS Thu 15 Celebration of International Day of Families at Roche Bois MPRB, Rue Guého, Roche Bois Fri 16 Information Session on PEN focal point at Plaine Verte Dr Idrice Goomany Centre 22. Sat 24 Conférence sur L’Inter culturalité à Maurice Municipality of Quatre Bornes 23. Wed 4 Promoting Sustainable Mauritius by the signature of agreement between Rotary Club of Ebene, SecureWorks and MACOSS and 15 NGOs benefitting from Rainwater Harvesting Plants SOS Children Village, Beau Bassin Mon 23 Inauguration of Rainwater Harvesting System and Launching of Training Courses on Values in Health Care Dr Idrice Goomany Centre, Plaine Verte 25. 1&2 Training in Policy, Advocacy and Dialogue in collaboration with DCP/EU Gold Crest 26. Thu 3 Beginning of 7 weeks Training - Values in Health Care (MQA Non Award Course) for carers working in the disability sector MACOSS Tue 15 Recreational Day and Inauguration of 3rd Rainwater Harvesting System ADSP, Royal Road, Long Mountain Wed 16 EU Mauritius Country Roadmap (In collaboration with EU Mauritius) MACOSS 29. Fri 18 (13h) Planting of trees and inaugurating of 4th Rainwater Harvesting System Eastern Welfare Association Beau Champ 30. Fri 18 (13h) Planting of Tress and inaugurating of 5th Rainwater Harvesting System Association des Malades et des Handicapés de L’Est 1. 2. 3. 6. 7. Oct 2013 Nov 2013 8. 9. 10. Dec 2013 11. 12. Jan 2014 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. Feb 2014 Mar 2014 Apr 2014 19. 20. 21. 24. 27. 28. May 2014 June 2014 July 2014 16 MACOSS On the move - August 2014