Day: 9 May 2025

The Princess Grace Hospital Centre (CHPG) has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to inclusivity with the signing of a dedicated charter for patients with disabilities. The symbolic ceremony, held Thursday at the Salle Du Conseil d’Administration of the healthcare facility, formalises 17 concrete commitments aimed at making healthcare more accessible to all.

The event brought together key figures including Christophe Robino, Minister for Social Affairs and Health, and Lionel Galfré, Technical Advisor – Delegate for Disability, alongside partner associations and hospital management.

The charter is the culmination of extensive work by a multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Valérie Bernard, Head of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department and institutional disability liaison, and Damien Aimé, Management Officer at Cap Fleuri.

“Conscious of the difficulties that people with disabilities face in accessing healthcare, CHPG has made this challenge a priority,” reads the institution’s official document presented during the ceremony.

The initiative has already yielded tangible results with the implementation of four key measures: a unique phone number with an online form for pre-visit needs assessment, personalised care pathways designed a case-by-case basis, practical guidance sheets for all staff, and the formal charter that codifies the institution’s approach to inclusive care. 

Alignment with Monaco’s Handicap policy

This development comes as part of Monaco’s broader Handicap strategy launched by the Princely Government in December 2023, which encourages all organisations across the Principality to adopt standards facilitating the inclusion of people with disabilities.

During the ceremony, Christophe Robino highlighted the significance of the initiative: “I believe this is truly an excellent response to the government’s initiative, which is expressed through the Handicap policy. Ultimately, our objective is that individually and collectively, we are ready for a society where disability no longer presents barriers to accessing services and participating fully in daily life.”

The 17-point charter addresses multiple dimensions of healthcare accessibility, from guaranteeing care regardless of disability type to enhancing communication quality. It outlines commitments across six categories: healthcare access, reception quality, patient autonomy, needs assessment, caregiver support, and professional training.

The working group, which includes doctors, caregivers, administrative staff, management, and user representatives, collaborated closely with the Principality’s associations to develop this comprehensive framework.

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Photo credit: Manuel Vitali – Direction de la Communication

As Monaco gears up for the return of the Grand Prix this May, attention is turning not only to the racing, but also to where the best views—and parties—will be found. One of the more discreet but consistently talked-about options is a high-rise terrace perched above Port Hercule, where the Monte-Carlo Race Club is once again hosting a weekend-long gathering for those who prefer their motorsport with a side of music and champagne.

Set on the 9th floor of the Panorama Building, the terrace offers a clear view over some of the most technical turns of the street circuit. But the appeal goes beyond the vantage point. From midday through the evening, the space fills with the sounds of live DJs, the scent of freshly prepared dishes from a private chef, and the kind of crowd that makes the scene as much a draw as the sport itself.

Throughout race weekend—from 22nd to 25th May—performers like DJ Kika Sass, Moreno De Leva, and saxophonist Maria will be keeping the energy up, both during the day and into the night. The event is designed to be fully immersive: open bar, live sets, and no need to move between venues.

By night, the same organisers run the Monte-Carlo Race Party. Running from 8:30pm to midnight on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, it’s one of the few places in the port where guests can slip into a cocktail setting without missing the racing vibe. The format is familiar—music, drinks, standing dinner—but the setting, and the circuit backdrop, gives it something extra.

While not an official part of the Grand Prix, the terrace and party nights have carved out a place in the wider social calendar of the event. For those interested in the race weekend but less committed to the grid, it offers a well-located alternative.

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Prince Albert II of Monaco has extended his congratulations to Pope Leo XIV following the historic election of the first American pope. In an official communiqué to the Vatican, the Prince offered his prayers and support, highlighting the spiritual and universal weight of the new pontiff’s role.

The message was sent shortly after Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected to the papacy on 8th May, becoming the 267th pope and taking the name Leo XIV. The 69-year-old Augustinian previously served as a missionary in Peru and held a senior role within the Vatican overseeing bishop appointments.

Prince Albert’s message conveyed both personal and national sentiments. “My family and I offer our fervent prayers for the greatness of His Pontificate,” he wrote, adding, “Together with the population of the Principality, we express our most respectful hope that the fulfilment of this eminent and weighty spiritual mission of universal scope will be marked by many satisfactions.” The letter concluded with a personal note: “I ask Your Holiness to kindly accept the respectful homage of my deep and filial attachment.”

Pope Leo XIV made his first appearance from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica with a message of peace and unity. His choice of name is seen as a tribute to Pope Leo XIII, known for his emphasis on social justice and his role in modernising the Church’s engagement with the world.

While not a large state, Monaco maintains a historically close relationship with the Holy See. Roman Catholicism is the state religion, and official messages of congratulations have long been a tradition from the Princely Family upon the election of a new pope.

As the first pontiff from the United States, and with extensive experience in Latin America, Pope Leo XIV is expected to bring a global, pastoral perspective to the Vatican at a time of considerable challenges and change for the Catholic Church.

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Photo of Pope Leo XIV source Reuters

Switzerland has long been renowned for its academic excellence, attracting families from across the globe in search of a high-quality, well-rounded education. The country’s boarding schools are celebrated not only for their rigorous academic programmes but also for their cultural diversity and safe, supportive environments.

As demand continues to grow, more families are recognising the unique advantages Swiss schools offer — from multilingual education and international exposure to a forward-thinking curriculum that equips students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Among Switzerland’s most prestigious institutions, Collège du Léman in Geneva stands out. Perfectly situated between the majestic Swiss Alps and the sparkling shores of Lake Geneva, the school offers a unique and inspiring setting for learning and personal development.

“We are proud to welcome 260 boarding students aged 11 to 18, and 1,500 day students starting as young as 2 years old, representing 120 nationalities,” says Pauline Nord, Director General of Collège du Léman. “This rich diversity fosters a truly global community. Our school provides a nurturing and inspiring environment where students can grow, thrive, and excel both academically and personally.”

More than just a school, Collège du Léman offers a transformative educational experience, combining rigorous academics with holistic personal growth. Its multicultural environment fosters open-mindedness and global citizenship, while its internationally recognised boarding programme provides students with a supportive, enriching home away from home.

A boarding experience that fosters independence and lifelong friendships

For many families, choosing a boarding school is about much more than academics — it’s about finding a place where children can grow, build independence, and form meaningful connections in a safe and inspiring environment. At Collège du Léman, the boarding programme embodies these principles, offering a structured yet enriching setting where students develop into confident, globally minded individuals.

“Boarding at Collège du Léman is not just about providing a place to stay,” says Justin Usher, Director of Boarding. “It’s about giving students the freedom to explore, the structure to excel, and the friendships that last a lifetime.”

The international community nurtures lasting connections among students from a diverse range of countries, including Monaco, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, China, and beyond. With dedicated House Parents providing round-the-clock care, boarders receive the guidance and support they need to thrive academically while also learning essential life skills that will serve them well into the future.

“I think boarding has been a great experience for me. I’ve met people from all over the world, and it’s helped me grow as a person,” says Carlos, a former boarder at CDL. “The staff here are very supportive. They always encourage us to do our best and are there whenever we need help.”

“Our utmost priority lies in ensuring the students’ happiness, security, and personal growth during their crucial formative years,” adds Usher. “We believe in offering just the right blend of support and challenge to help each student discover and develop their unique potential, inspiring them to become their very best selves.”

A tailored approach to education

At Collège du Léman, a personalised approach to education lies at the heart of its commitment to academic excellence, flexibility, and real-world preparation.

Students are empowered to choose from five internationally recognised diploma programmes — the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP), the American High School Diploma, the French Baccalauréat, and the Swiss Maturité — ensuring their academic paths align with their strengths and aspirations. The school’s academic success is reflected in its 100% pass rate across all diploma programmes, a testament to its rigorous standards and dedicated support.

This flexible framework is further enhanced by multilingual pathways, offering Francophone, Anglophone, and bilingual programmes that integrate English and French into daily learning. Boarders as young as 10 years old are given the opportunity to refine their language skills early and develop the cultural adaptability essential for global success.

“The IB allowed me to explore a vast array of subjects at a high level, which helped me prepare for my studies,” says Magnus, a CDL graduate now at Brown University.

Students who prefer a curriculum rooted in the French academic tradition can pursue the French Baccalauréat, which provides a strong foundation for entrance into French-speaking universities.

“The international environment at Collège du Léman made me more confident and prepared me for university life,” says Inès, a graduate now studying at EPFL.

In addition to academic rigour, the school places a strong emphasis on 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability, blending real-world learning experiences with formal study.

“The school’s vision is to shape generations of global citizens who are ready to change the world for the better,” says Nord. “We have created a forward-looking curriculum centred on transferable skills, fostering resilience and flexibility. This ensures that students are prepared to navigate an ever-changing world and make meaningful contributions to society.”

Through interdisciplinary coursework and a focus on adaptability, Collège du Léman ensures its students are well equipped to succeed at leading institutions including the London School of Economics, Imperial College London, ESSEC Business School, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

An enriching experience beyond the classroom

Switzerland itself becomes part of the educational experience, offering students access to world-class outdoor and cultural opportunities. Weekends for boarders are filled with activities such as sailing on Lake Geneva, skiing in the Alps, and exploring Geneva’s historic landmarks like the United Nations.

“One of my favourite experiences was skiing in the Alps on weekends,” says Carlos. “We would wake up early, hit the slopes, and be back in time for dinner — it’s the perfect way to combine school and adventure.”

Experiential learning also extends well beyond Switzerland. Students participate in international trips, including social purpose initiatives such as community development projects in Tanzania, where they help improve access to clean water and education. These experiences provide real-world insight into global challenges and reinforce the school’s mission to nurture responsible global citizens.

Boarders also travel across Europe and further afield, engaging with diverse cultures and histories. The school curates exclusive educational expeditions that merge academic rigour with hands-on learning, helping students broaden their perspectives and leadership skills.

One of the most sought-after opportunities is the MIT trip to Boston, where students meet with innovators in science and technology. This immersive experience allows them to interact with researchers, explore cutting-edge developments, and deepen their interest in fields such as engineering, artificial intelligence, and sustainability.

A model of Swiss education

As interest in Swiss private education continues to grow, Collège du Léman stands as a leading example of how academic excellence, cultural diversity, and a world-class boarding experience can be seamlessly combined. Its commitment to shaping well-rounded, globally minded individuals ensures that graduates are prepared not only for university, but for a meaningful life beyond the classroom.

For families seeking a holistic and internationally focused education, Collège du Léman exemplifies the best of Swiss private schooling — a foundation for lifelong success in an ever-changing world.

Discover more about Collège du Léman’s exceptional boarding programme here.

This article was created in collaboration with Collège du Léman. All photos provided.