Ms. Isabelle Bonnal is Named Commander of the Order of Academic Palms

© Direction de la Communication - Michael Alesi

On the proposal of Jean-Michel Blanquer, Minister of Education and Youth of the French Republic, the rank of Commander of the Order of Academic Palms has been conferred upon Ms. Isabelle Bonnal, Director of Education, Youth and Sport of the Principality of Monaco. 

The insignia of this rank were presented to her by Emmanuel Ethis, Rector of the Academy of Nice and Chancellor of the Universities. 

The ceremony took place yesterday evening at the Automobile Club de Monaco, in the presence of H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince, the Minister of State, the Archbishop, the President of the National Council and many authorities and dignitaries. 

As Ms. Isabelle Bonnal recalled, after leaving her native Tunisia, she attended the Lycée Albert I, before becoming a teacher of literature in various schools in the Principality.  She then became Director of Education, Youth and Sport, a post she has held since 2011. 

Ms. Bonnal is deeply attached to the values of public service, and stressed her unwavering commitment to the world of education.  She recalled the words of Victor Hugo, "Every child we teach is a man we gain.  Ignorance is the night that begins the abyss." 

Over and above personal recognition, this distinction recognises Ms. Isabelle Bonnal's unfailing commitment to the Principality's educational community for more than 40 years, and makes her one of the few Monegasque nationals to be named Commander of the Order of Academic Palms.