To commemorate 60 years of capacity-building partnership between India and Sri Lanka, through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, the High Commission of India in Colombo celebrated ITEC Day 2025 on Wednesday (05).

High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Arun Hemachandra, graced the occasion. The event was attended by over 200 participants, including ITEC alumni from Sri Lanka, as well as officials and professionals from diverse sectors who have benefited from various training courses in India, under different ITEC programmes.

 In his address, Arun Hemachandra lauded ITEC initiative for not only serving as a conduit for knowledge exchange but also as a bridge fostering strong bilateral ties built on historical, cultural, and economic affinities. The Minister highlighted India’s commitment to international cooperation through the ITEC programme, which focuses on capacity building, knowledge sharing, and skill development for partner countries. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India for its unwavering support through the ITEC programme, which has been instrumental in empowering Sri Lanka’s professionals and enhancing public service capabilities. He also acknowledged the contributions of ITEC alumni, whose expertise strengthens bilateral relationships and enhances global collaboration.

Speaking on the occasion, the High Commissioner acknowledged the keen interest Sri Lankan officials have shown in the ITEC programme over the years. He emphasized India’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s education sector, including higher education, through partnerships between academic institutions in both countries, and informed that in addition to the 402 ITEC slots currently allocated annually, 1500 Sri Lankan officers will be trained at the National Good Governance Centre (NGGC) in India. He reiterated that India, guided by the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The world is one family), will continue to play a leading role in capacity-building initiatives for Sri Lanka.

 Senior officials reflected on their experiences with ITEC training in India, expressing deep appreciation for the programme’s comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. They highlighted the diverse range of training areas, including inclusive governance, climate change, renewable energy, digital transformation, startup ecosystems, artificial intelligence in governance, cybersecurity, quality management, quantum computing, information science, and fostering innovation, incubation, and entrepreneurship. These programmes have equipped participants with valuable insights and practical skills, enabling them to drive progress and contribute effectively to their respective fields.

 Launched in September 1964, ITEC is a flagship programme of the Government of India aimed at extending technical assistance and enhancing capacities in developing countries. It has become a key instrument in India’s contribution to human resource development, with over 200,000 individuals from 160 partner nations having participated in the programme. Sri Lanka currently benefits from more than 500 annual training slots under ITEC. ‘ITEC Day’ is celebrated each year by Indian diplomatic missions worldwide, underscoring this unique pillar of Global South cooperation.