Traditionally, the opening ceremony was graced by the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of India to Kyrgyzstan, Birender Singh Yadav, and the Deputy Minister of Science, Higher Education, and Innovation of Kyrgyzstan, Durus Kozuev, who lit a symbolic lamp. This gesture is an important part of Indian cultural tradition and symbolizes the reverence for knowledge as the highest value.
According to Ambassador Yadav, the philosophy of ITEC is based on the principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," which translates to "The whole world is one family." The program also supports the concept of South-South cooperation. ITEC aims to develop the potential of partner countries and offers unique educational courses at 140 educational institutions and centers in India. Participants are provided with the necessary skills for successful living in a globalized world, as well as the opportunity to exchange experiences, he noted in an interview with vb.kg before the event started.
The ambassador also added that cooperation under the ITEC program between India and Kyrgyzstan has actively developed since the establishment of diplomatic relations. Currently, India provides Kyrgyzstan with 100 places for ITEC training courses that align with the country's economic priorities.
- This year, more than forty Kyrgyz citizens participated in the courses, and we hope that this event will attract even more young professionals, - said the ambassador, noting that the number of ITEC graduates in Kyrgyzstan exceeds 1,500, including civilian and military professionals.
Deputy Minister Kozuev noted that India is a significant partner for Kyrgyzstan in the field of education. The ITEC program complements reforms aimed at improving the efficiency of public administration and developing the economy. He also emphasized that this program is a key tool for enhancing the qualifications of civil servants, allowing them access to modern knowledge and implementing it in the practice of reforms.
ITEC program graduate Abduaziz Kyrgyzbekov, a chief legal specialist at the Tax Service of the Issyk-Ata district, shared his impressions of the course he attended. "The ITEC program gave me the opportunity to delve deeper into India's tax system, which is considered one of the best in the world, and to exchange experiences with colleagues from other countries," he said in an interview with vb.kg.
The training theme "Innovations in Tax Administration – Prospects for the Future" allowed participants to discuss existing problems and ways to solve them. Classes were held at the National Academy of Taxes in Nagpur, one of the largest cities in central India.
In Abduaziz's opinion, the ITEC program not only provides knowledge and introduces modern technologies but also fosters friendly relations among the youth of different countries, which is no less significant achievement.
The meeting concluded with a vibrant performance featuring Indian dances and music.
