The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) recently wrapped up a significant two-week training initiative designed to boost innovation and the commercialization of technology across African countries. The program, which ran from January 29 to February 10, 2024, saw the participation of representatives from 11 African nations in a comprehensive educational endeavor.

This event was sponsored by the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, a part of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. The program was inaugurated by Ms. Snehaja Jonnalagadda, Chief of the MEA Branch Secretariat in Hyderabad, marking its start on January 29, 2024.

A closing ceremony took place on February 9, 2024, where participants received certificates, celebrating the culmination of the program. Dr. Jacqueline Hughes, Director General of ICRISAT, praised the varied expertise of the attendees, which included officials from ministries and national institutes related to science, technology, and agriculture from their countries.

Dr. Hughes thanked the Indian Ministry of External Affairs for their support and highlighted the critical nature of protecting intellectual property. Dr. Deepanwita Chattopadhyay, Chairperson and CEO of IKP Knowledge Park, also spoke at the event and distributed certificates, urging participants to apply their new knowledge effectively in their roles.

Mr. Koye Yani Bolongar from Chad, representing the participants, thanked the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, ITEC, and ICRISAT for the valuable learning experience, noting its potential to enhance India-Africa relations and technology collaboration. Maria Goyayi from Tanzania reflected on the program’s impact, noting a newfound appreciation for Africa’s potential. The program concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Sravanthi Vedula, Senior Officer at ICRISAT, acknowledging the joint efforts behind the program’s success.