By Joy Odor
The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria in celebrating the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) on Friday, underscores the deep bonds of friendship and cooperation that India shares with its partner countries, including Nigeria and informed that it has trained about 200,000 officials from over 160 countries.
The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Shri Balasubramanian in his welcome address affirmed that ITEC embodies India’s vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which means “the world is one family and stands as a testament to India’s commitment to nurturing global partnerships and extending a hand of friendship to countries around the world.
According to him, the training Programme is demand-driven, and subjects selected are of interest to partner countries for their working professionals on a wide range of skills and disciplines.
Balasubramanian explained that the programme was one of the ways of fostering cooperation among partner countries, especially, bilateral relations between India and Nigeria, saying there is need for both countries to continue to explore areas of mutual interest.
The India Envoy mentioned that
Nigeria, Benin and ECOWAS has been a proud beneficiary of the ITEC program, with numerous Nigerian and Beninese professionals and officials benefiting from various training programs in India.
He noted that the programs have covered a diverse range of sectors, including information technology, agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, and many more.
Balasubramanian opined that the knowledge and skills acquired through ITEC have not only enhanced the capabilities of individuals but have also contributed to the development and progress of Nigeria.
“It is an honor for me, as the Indian High Commissioner in Nigeria, to stand before you and address this gathering on this auspicious day.
“The The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation program embodies India’s vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which means “the world is one family.”
“ITEC, stands as a testament to India’s commitment to nurturing global partnerships and extending a hand of friendship to countries around the world.
“For over five decades, ITEC has been a conduit for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and mutual growth. It exemplifies the spirit of South-South cooperation and embodies the principles of equality, solidarity, and mutual respect among nations.
“ITEC serves as a powerful tool for forging partnerships and building bridges between nations. It promotes people-to-people interactions, cultural exchanges, and a deeper understanding of each other’s traditions and values.
“The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, is the leading capacity building platform of the Ministry Of External Affairs, Government of India.
“Instituted in 1964, ITEC is one of the oldest institutionalized arrangements for international capacity building having trained more than 200,000 officials from 160+ countries in both the civilian and in the defence sector.
“ITEC is about cooperation and partnership for mutual benefit. It is response-oriented, and it addresses the needs of developing countries.
“India possesses rich experience in the field of economic development as well as manpower skills and technology suited to the geographical and ecological conditions of partner countries.
“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 prepare them for an increasingly globalized world
“Building on India’s vast and rich network of governance- and development-related expertise available in higher educational institutions and training facilities, ITEC offers nearly 10,000 fully-funded in-person training opportunities through nearly 400 courses offered at 100+ eminent institutes in India each year.
“The ITEC programme is fully funded by the Government of India. All expenses related to training programmes such as course fees, living allowance, book allowance, study tours, emergency medical assistance as well as return air fares are borne by the Government of India.
“As we celebrate ITEC Day, we also reflect on the opportunities and responsibilities it brings. We have expanded ITEC and also introduced modalities like eITEC (for on-line trainings using digital delivery platforms), ITEC- Executive (short-term policy-focussed, in-person trainings for senior government executives), ITEC- Onsite and ITEC- Expert (onsite capacity building assignments carried out by Indian experts)” he stressed.
Balasubramanian reiterated India’s commitment to continue to adapt and expand the program to meet the evolving needs of our partner countries.
He therefore extended his appreciation to the Government of Nigeria, Government of Benin, ECOWAS and all partner organisations for their continued support and participation in the ITEC program, praying for the spirit of friendship and cooperation between India and Nigeria to continue to florish.
Earlier, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu assured Nigeria willingness to deepen cooperation with India, especially with President Bola Tinubu’s robust engagements at the just concluded G20 summit in India and commended India for sustaining the laudable initiative over the years.
