Gaborone, Botswana – August 29, 2024

By Sethulakshmi Ravindran

The High Commission of India in Botswana hosted a pre-departure orientation program on August 28, 2024 for the Botswana students selected for the ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarships for the academic year 2024-25.

This event marked the final step before these talented scholars embark on their transformative educational journey in India.

The orientation program was held at the High Commission of India and was attended by several officials, including the High Commissioner of India, Mr. Bharath Kumar Kuthati.

The event provided an opportunity for the High Commissioner to personally congratulate the scholarship recipients, who were chosen from a competitive pool of over 500 applicants.

In his address, High Commissioner Kuthati expressed his admiration for the students’ achievements and emphasised the importance of their roles as cultural ambassadors.

“You are among the few selected for this prestigious scholarship, and it is a testament to your hard work and dedication. As you embark on this journey, remember to be true ambassadors of your country and to raise your flag high.

“I am confident that your time in India will be transformational, not just academically but also in how you approach life,” Mr. Kuthati stated.

The orientation provided the students with a comprehensive introduction to what they can expect during their time in India. This included a visual presentation showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and notable tourist attractions.

The videos offered a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture and the many experiences awaiting the scholars. To further immerse the students in Indian culture, they enjoyed a selection of traditional Indian cuisine during the event.

The High Commissioner also took the opportunity to explain the practical aspects of living and studying in India, offering insights and advice to help the students prepare for their new environment. He encouraged them to approach this opportunity with an open mind and a positive outlook.

In their expressions of gratitude, the selected scholars thanked the Government of India for providing the fully-funded scholarships, which will cover all their academic and living expenses.

They expressed their commitment to making the most of this opportunity and to achieving academic and personal growth during their time in India.

In the afternoon, officials from the High Commission of India bid a warm farewell to a few Botswana students selected for the ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarships for the academic year 2024-25 at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport as they prepared to embark on their journey to India.

As the students prepared for their departure, they expressed their deep gratitude to the Government of India and the High Commission for their support. The scholars were eager and optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead and were committed to making the most of their time in India.

The farewell at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport was marked by a sense of excitement and anticipation, as the students said their goodbyes and looked forward to their new academic and cultural experiences in India.

The High Commission of India remains proud of these young scholars and looks forward to their achievements and contributions in the coming years.

The High Commission of India wishes all the scholars the very best as they embark on this exciting journey. The High Commission is confident that the students will excel in their studies and contribute positively to the academic and cultural exchanges between India and Botswana.

About ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarships:

The ICCR India-Africa Maitri Scholarships are part of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) initiative aimed at strengthening educational ties between India and Africa.

The program provides fully funded scholarships to outstanding African students to pursue higher education in India, promoting educational and cultural exchange.

• Ms. Sethulakshmi Ravindran is Attaché (ICCR) High Commission of India in Gaborone, Botswana
  Email: com.gaborone@mea.gov.in Phone: 3912240