Beneficiaries relay experiences as Indian High Commission celebrates ITEC Day

It was an evening of encomium on the people and government of India as several Nigerians who have benefitted from the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) narrate their experiences.

Tagged, ITEC Day 2022, the event was celebrated in the Chancery premises of the High Commission of India, Abuja with about 250 ITEC alumni Indian community in Nigeria as well as other Nigerian dignitaries in attendance.

On 15 September every year, India celebrates ITEC Day, an occasion that gives a unique opportunity to ITEC Alumni to reconnect with one another.

ITEC Day 2022 celebration event started with Indian and Nigerian National Anthems followed by remarks by the High Commissioner and Nigerian dignitaries including the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Mrs Olushola Olayinka Idowu, Director, Enterprise Development and Promotions, Medium Enterprises Development Agency, Mr Monday Ewans as well as representatives from Nigerian Armed Forces.

The event also witnessed vibrant dance performances by Nigerian artists from Afri Theatre Group, a rendition of a Hindi song by Nigerian singer, Mr Abdul as well as a yoga demonstration by Yoga teacher, Mr Basant Ram.

ITEC alumni took turns to share their experiences in India and how they can contribute to their own country from what they have learnt under this programme.

In his remarks, the High Commissioner of India, Shri G. Balasubramanian, talked about the importance of ITEC programme in enhancing bilateral relations between Nigeria and India.

He noted that development partnership occupies a paramount place in India’s foreign policy. According to him, the development cooperation enjoyed by both countries is based on two main pillars.

These he stated, include, development cooperation incorporating the idea of partnership such as working for mutual benefits and development cooperation based on priorities determined by the partner.

He added that ITEC Programme was launched by the government of India on September 15, 1964, and it is a fully funded development cooperation program.

“The professionals and people from ITEC partner countries are offered unique training courses in different centers of excellence in India, which empower them with not just professional skills but also, prepare them for an increasingly globalized world.”

The High Commissioner added that ITEC programme is based on the belief in shared growth and prosperity “by sharing our knowledge and resources with our partner countries.

“The approach of ITEC Programme is human-centric and in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that India’s development partnership would be guided by priorities of the partner country and on terms that are comfortable to our partners”, he said.