Bhutanese who have availed various training courses in India gathered at the Embassy of India, Thimphu, on the evening of September 21 to meet, greet and exchange experiences and knowledge acquired during their training and celebrate the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme or ITEC day.
Under ITEC, India offers several training slots and scholarships to Bhutanese civil servants and graduates every year.
Ambassador Sri Jaidev Sarker, in his address, gave an overview of the ITEC programme stressing that it was important pillar of bilateral cooperation with Bhutan. He added the kind of trainings and courses offered in India were the most appropriate.
Chief guest Lyonpo Norbu Wangchuk said that India and Bhutan shared an excellent bilateral relationship, encompassing diverse areas and the ITEC programmes had tremendously benefited Bhutan. “When I think about India Bhutan friendship, two personalities comes to my head, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and the third Druk Gyelpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuk,” the minister said. He stated ITEC was the vision of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
Six ITEC alumni made presentations of the courses they availed and how it had benefited them how much they enjoyed their studies in India.
Sangay Dorji, principal of Jungshina Primary School, who did a diploma in human resource and IT, said it provided an opportunity to learn about one’s own country. “ If you think education is expensive, wait until you see how much ignorance costs,” he said.
Chimi Rinzin and Melam said they not only brought home techniques and technologies but also the spirit of learning from India.
Teachers and students performed cultural programmes at the celebrations that were attended by more than 100 participants.