In line with its long-term commitment towards supporting the local communities and being responsive to their needs, the company has launched a Cable & Wireless Seychelles Foundation. The aims of the foundation are (i) to establish and build partnerships with local charitable and community organisations focusing on groups with ‘special needs’; (ii) to actively contribute in the strengthening of communities in which we live and work; (iii) to enhance the Cable & Wireless brand by promoting our role as a corporate citizen. With these aims, the Foundation will be positioned as an extra to the company’s normal sponsorship and donation activities. On a yearly basis, the Foundation will provide support and assistance to specific areas, which will be decided upon by Cable & Wireless Seychelles. This year, being the inaugural year of the Foundation, emphasis is being placed on the community group that is in constant need of extra support and nurturing; the group that plays a vital role in the social development of our country, namely our Youth. A donation to the School of the Exceptional Child was done at 9.30 am on Tuesday 22nd March, by the CEO of Cable & Wireless Seychelles to officially launch the Foundation. The launch was attended by the Minister of Education, Mr. Danny Faure, the Principal Secretary for the Department of Information Technology & Communications, Mr. Benjamin Choppy and the Director of the National Council for Children, Ms. Ruby Pardiwalla. The donation consisted of items urgently needed by the school and ranged from large electronic equipment to a computer, educational books and toys. On behalf of the Ministry of Education, Mr. Danny Faure said "The Cable & Wireless Seychelles Foundation is good news for our children and youth. Congratulations to them for putting into place a Foundation which will no doubt intensify our efforts to promote the spirit of Caring and Sharing." Usman Saadat, Chief Executive Officer of Cable & Wireless who made the donation said: "Today is an important day in the 100 year long history of Cable & Wireless in the Seychelles. We remain a committed partner in the development of the Seychelles and we are extending this commitment with the launch of the Cable & Wireless Foundation here today. This tangible assistance will help improve the quality of life of these children, but more importantly, inspire hope and positive energy in these young people."