More than 500 Guyanese have gained expertise in a variety of fields under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, a gathering heard at a function held to celebrate its 44th anniversary.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release the ITEC programme opened in September 1964 as a bilateral programme that allowed countries in the developing world to visit India and participate in several empowerment programmes. Currently 156 countries are benefiting from the programme.
An evening of dance and music organised by the Indian High Commission was held at the National Cultural Centre to mark the anniversary. In his address at the function Prime Minister Samuel Hinds said the programme is a tangible example of South-South cooperation. He also said the government appreciated the opportunities extended to Guyana under the programme and asked India to consider increasing the slots available to Guyana. “I wish to assure you that every effort will be made to take full advantage of this extended facility,” Hinds said.
In response, Indian High Commissioner Subit Kumar Mandal said his government appreciates that Guyana capitalised on the opportunities offered, adding that it is proud of the success the programme achieved here. He also commended the ITEC beneficiaries who have made significant contributions to strengthening Guyana/India relations.
Meanwhile, Minister Dr Jennifer Westford, whose ministry administers the programme, reported that a survey conducted to determine recipients’ contribution to Guyana has found that 99% of them have been serving the country. “We are seeing quality improvements within our services,” she said, adding that they can be directly attributed to the programme.
ITEC representative in Guyana Irfaan Ally lauded the programme as a “gesture of friendship, goodwill and interest, and cultural fusion.” He said “India’s contribution to global development dates back to as long as recorded history. We must remember that we were trained in a country and by people who invented the numerical system, established the art of navigation and the game of chess.”
