On Tuesday, 10 June 2025, the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Human Resource, organised a workshop on “Preventing Financial Crimes: The Role of Rectors” at the Integrated Customs Clearance Centre of the Mauritius Revenue Authority in Le Chaland, Plaine Magnien. The event was graced by the presence of the President of the Republic of Mauritius, His Excellency Mr Dharambeer Gokhool, G.C.S.K., as Chief Guest.
In his address to secondary school rectors and educational leaders, Mr Dharambeer Gokhool, underscored the indispensable role of education in shaping a society anchored in ethical values. He emphasized that school rectors are not just academic administrators but also custodians of character, capable of nurturing integrity and civic responsibility within school communities.
“Rectors are stewards of public trust,” the President of the Republic stated, “and they hold the power to instill a culture of honesty and accountability in their schools.” He called for an education system where integrity is deeply embedded — not only through curriculum reform but also through extracurricular activities and community involvement. Mr Dharambeer Gokhool also highlighted the growing complexity of financial crimes and their harmful impact on economic stability and social equity. “Because fighting corruption is a national priority, just like fighting drugs is a national priority,” he declared, stressing the need to begin this fight in the classroom, where the foundation of a just and accountable society can be laid.
The Acting Director-General of the FCC, Mr Titrudeo Dawoodarry drew attention to the disturbing rise in drug use among youth and called for collective, proactive measures. He also reiterated the importance of the FCC’s longstanding collaboration with the Ministry of Education, which has led to the creation of over 100 Integrity Clubs and conduct of numerous awareness campaigns across secondary schools.
These initiatives aim to foster a strong culture of ethics, reflective thinking, and responsible leadership among students and rectors alike. The workshop served as a powerful reminder of the transformative role school leaders play in the broader national effort to prevent financial crimes and promote good governance.
Mrs Aneeta Ghoorah, Ombudsperson for Children, spoke about the evolving nature of financial crimes infiltrating schools — from misappropriation of school funds and extortion to the worrying rise of cyber scams among students. Drawing on her extensive four-decade experience in education, Mrs Ghoorah underscored the urgent need to catch unethical behaviours early and embed strong moral values through curriculum and leadership example.
She also addressed concerns around fraudulent practices by certain private institutions, urging heads of schools and parents to remain vigilant and work collaboratively with oversight bodies to protect students’ interests.
The event concluded with an open discussion centred on the development of an Integrity Roadmap for Secondary Schools, moderated by Mr Preetam Mohitram, Acting Assistant Director at the Directorate of Secondary Education, Ministry of Education and Human Resource.
Several pertinent issues were raised by participants during the session, including:
- Instances of undue influence or intimidation in the execution of professional duties;
- The scope and legal protection afforded to whistleblowers;
- The complexities of reporting financial crimes within the layered structure of the education sector; and
- The need for the standardisation of administrative procedures across schools.
In response, participants were reassured that the FCC operates secure and confidential reporting channels. It was also highlighted that the FCC Act 2023 provides for the protection of both informers and witnesses.
The Acting Director-General, Mr Titrudeo Dawoodarry, reiterated the vital importance of reporting financial misconduct to the FCC. He emphasized that accountability is key to preserving the integrity of the education sector, and that reporting unethical practices is a courageous and necessary step toward systemic reform.