ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces Mauritius as a small island state, building on innovation, coalitions, networking and capacity-building to face the challenges of globalisation. Mauritius, a small island economy situated in the Indian Ocean, is historically related to Dutch, French and British colonies. Due to its colonial ties, it has for years enjoyed preferential trade with the European Union. The chapter focuses on the work of the National Productivity and Competitiveness Council (NPCC), which links industry and education for building a more sustainable future and improving quality of life. The NPCC acts as a synergiser, regrouping stakeholders from various sectors of the economy, and facilitating networking and collaboration to make Mauritius a 'better living nation'. The Council was established in 2000 as a corporate body, to generate a culture of productivity and quality in all sectors of the economy. In collaboration with the Ministry of Women's Rights, Child Development and Family Welfare, training programmes for women were initiated.
