On March 16, 2025, a significant event took place in Haiti as the Petit Séminaire Collège Saint-Martial (PSCSM) celebrated its 160th anniversary. The commemoration was marked by a mass held at Église Saint-Pierre in Pétionville, attended by prominent figures including Councillor-Presidents Leslie Voltaire and Smith Augustin, Secretary General Jacques Marie Francis Gratia, and Minister of the Interior Paul Antoine Bien-Aimé.
Key Highlights of the Event
- Mass and Homily: The mass was celebrated by Monsignor Max Leroy Mésidor, who highlighted the joy of celebrating the PSCSM’s anniversary despite the challenges posed by insecurity. He expressed sympathy for victims of the crisis and emphasized the need for peace and education in Haiti.
- Importance of PSCSM: The Archbishop emphasized the role of PSCSM in training Haitian youth for a better future, thanking those who have supported the institution in promoting the Gospel and the common good.
- Speeches and Tributes: Several speeches honored the PSCSM, underscoring its historical significance and educational mission.
- State Support: The participation of the Conseil Présidentiel de Transition (CPT) demonstrated the state’s commitment to prioritizing education in Haiti’s development efforts.
Background on Petit Séminaire Collège Saint-Martial
The PSCSM is a Catholic school for boys located in Port-au-Prince, founded in 1865. It has a rich history of academic and religious education, known for its contributions to Haitian society, including the establishment of the country’s oldest library and its first meteorological station. Despite facing challenges such as the 2010 earthquake and recent insecurity issues, the institution remains a symbol of educational excellence in Haiti.