The Creole Language and Culture Research Institute (CLCRI) was set up by the University of Seychelles in October 2016, to stimulate, facilitate and lead research in Creole studies in the country, with particular attention to the Seychellois Creole language and culture. It is also the means by which UniSey can contribute to the Seychellois community in areas of creole linguistic development and cultural research, and enhance the building of a national cultural identity.

VISION

To become a hub for Creole Studies and research in the Indian Ocean region.

MISSION

The mission of the Creole Language and Culture Research Institute is creating an academic forum to undertake research and related activities for the advancement of the Seychellois creole language and culture within the context of creole societies.

Related activities include the dissemination of research, the setting up and maintenance of databases, publishing, and activities such as lectures and seminars as well as education and information events for the general public. 

VALUES

• Adherence to professional and moral ethics in the performance of the institute’s activities;
• Working as a team and in collaboration with others to achieve common goals;
• Upholding the University’s good reputation through adherence to high standards of performance.
• Bringing innovation to modes of practice in research, dissemination and use of socio-cultural data to stimulate new respect and enthusiasm in the youth particularly, intellectuals and others, for the Creole culture, language and society.

TARGETED AREAS OF RESEARCH

• • Creole linguistic development;
  • Genesis of Indian Ocean Creoles and their evolution;
  • Origins of Seychellois Creole culture;
  • Contribution of Madagascar, East Africa and Asia to Indian Ocean Creole cultures
  • The Indian Ocean World, Ancient and Present
  • The Bourbonnais and Ile de France connections;
  • Early history and consequent historical developments;
  • Slavery and its aftermath;
  • Music, song and dance;
  • Cultural practices;
  • Literature and literary developments;
  • Theatre and performance;
  • Creole architecture;
  • Creole culture and sustainable development;
  • Creole culture and the Blue Economy.

MOTTO

‘NOU KILTIR, NOU KONESANS, NOU LIDANTITE’