Dr. Jude Padayachy has been serving as Secretary of State for Health for the Republic of Seychelles since December 2025. With a distinguished career spanning national leadership and international public health, he brings strategic vision, operational expertise, and a strong results-oriented approach to strengthening Seychelles’ health system.

Current Leadership and Public Service

Secretary of State for Health (2025–Present)
Transitioned into senior government leadership to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen service delivery, and ensure measurable impact within the health sector.

Previous National Roles

• Director General for Planning, Research and Statistics – Ministry of Health
• Director General for Management and Information Systems Development (MISD) – Ministry of Information Technology and Information.
• Chief Executive Officer – National Statistics Bureau

In these roles, Dr. Padayachy led strategic planning, data-driven policy development, and institutional performance management initiatives.

International Career with the United Nations

Dr. Padayachy brings over 15 years of experience with the United Nations system, contributing to global and regional public health leadership.

UNAIDS Multi-Country Director (2017)
First Seychellois appointed to this position, overseeing operations in Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius, and Seychelles.

Regional Health Leadership

• Led implementation of key initiatives such as the Partnership to Accelerate COVID-19 Testing (PACT) in Madagascar.
• Advanced progress toward the global “95-95-95” HIV targets to improve testing, treatment, and viral suppression rates.

Global Roles

• UNAIDS Headquarters, Geneva
• WHO Regional Office for Africa

His work focused on strategic information systems, health economics, and strengthening national HIV/AIDS responses.

Academic Background and Expertise

Dr. Padayachy holds an extensive and multidisciplinary academic portfolio:

Doctor of Business Leadership – University of South Africa

Master of Business Administration (MBA) – University of Surrey

MSc in Social Statistics - University of Southampton

MSc in Economics - University of Strathclyde

MA International Relations - University of Leicester

His research and publications have focused on:

• Health Economics
• HIV and AIDS response
• Strategic Information Systems
• Evidence-based policy development

Honours and Recognition

In 2022, Dr. Padayachy was conferred the title of Chevalier of the Malagasy National Order, recognising his significant contributions to HIV/AIDS response efforts in Madagascar and the region.

Personal Interests

Beyond public service, Dr. Padayachy maintains strong personal pursuits:

Kyokushin Karate – Fourth Dan Black Belt

Musician – Skilled in guitar and flute

His dedication to discipline, resilience, and creativity reflects both in his leadership style and personal philosophy.