DEVELOPMENT opportunities in the agriculture and education sectors were at the top of discussions led by a high profiled delegation from India visiting Richards Bay last month. The delegation comprising the Indian High Commissioner – Ruchi Ghanashyam and Consulate General of India – Raghunathan met with His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini Ka BhekuZulu and philanthropist Ishwar Ramlutchman at Protea Hotel The Waterfront last month for a meeting to strengthen and promote relations between the Indian government and the Zulu monarch.
High Commissioner Ghanashyam highlighted the scholarship programme offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to students from South Africa. Students can apply for a wide range of studies and the scholarships are fully funded.
She wanted the scholarship to be promoted in all communities as it is open to all race groups. ICCR offers about 3 365 scholarships under 24 schemes which range from engineering, pharmacy, accountancy, business administration and management. Scholarships are also offered to pursue studies in Indian dance, music, painting and sculpture. Meanwhile, Ishwar Ramlutchman said the sessions also touched on integration between the Indian and Zulu cultures, and an event was scheduled for next year to promote both cultures. ‘We want to build a bridge of good relations between these two countries and capitalize on ways in which we can empower our locals to create economic opportunities and job creation.
‘The scholarship has been benefiting many South Africans and we want to see more local students applying for these courses. ‘The King has visited India and commended their agricultural practices and said we can learn from them to create business.