High Commission of India

Victoria

******

ITEC Day 2022 Celebrated in Seychelles

The High Commission of India celebrated the 58th ITEC Day on 6 December in the form of an Alumni Meet at the Savoy Resort in Mahe. The theme of the event was “Building Capacity, Building Community”. The meet was attended by the Minister of Blue Economy and Fisheries Mr Jean-Francois Ferrari as well as Minister of Education Dr Justin Valentin as Chief Guest and Guest of Honour respectively. The Auditor General of Seychelles Mr Gamini Herath and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Seychelles Ms Joelle Perreau were also present. Over 50 ITEC alumni participated, of which, 6 alumni made comprehensive presentations describing their learning experiences and stay in India as part of their ITEC courses.

2. High Commissioner Mr Kartik Pande addressed the gathering emphasizing on the significance of ITEC as a platform for knowledge-sharing, capacity building and development partnership. Referring to India taking over the G20 presidency from 1 December, he highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s message of “One Earth. One Family. One Future.” as the guiding force of India’s G20 presidency, which also strengthened the ethos of ITEC program. Minister of Blue Economy Mr Jean-Francois Ferrari, in his speech as Chief Guest, congratulated India for taking up G20 presidency and stated it would bring about greater good for its extended neighbourhood friends. He thanked India for ITEC and mentioned that about a thousand people have made good use of the program.

3. The presentations given by the ITEC alumni outlined their engagement in diverse courses such as introduction to social intrapreneurship, environment audit, enhancing leadership skills and modern library practices. They expressed their delight in experiencing thew culture and cuisine of India as well. At the end of the event, the speakers were felicitated by Minister Ferrari, Minister Valentin and the High Commissioner. This was followed by a group photograph and reception for all attendees.

4. The ITEC Program remains one of the most impactful capacity building initiative in Seychelles. Till date, about 1,000 people- which accounts for 1 per cent of the population – have benefited from it. From 1985 to 2022 over 300 civil course slots have been utilized by Seychellois professionals. The program is another symbol of the warm and cordial bilateral ties.