The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) on 10 February, concluded a highly impactful two-week training programme aimed at fostering innovation and technology commercialisation in African nations
With 11 African countries participating in the intensive learning experience from 29 January to 10 February 2024, the event which was made possible through the generous support of the Indian Technical and Economic Corporation (ITEC) programme under the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, commenced with an inaugural address by Ms Snehaja Jonnalagadda, Chief of the MEA Branch Secretariat in Hyderabad, on 29 January 2024.
Director General of ICRISAT, Dr Jacqueline Hughes appreciated the diverse expertise brought forth by the participants, while also expressing gratitude to the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India for their support. Hughes also underscored the importance of safeguarding intellectual assets, particularly from a legal standpoint. Dr Deepanwita Chattopadhyay, chairperson and CEO of IKP Knowledge Park in Hyderabad emphasised the imperative of leveraging the training received, while further highlighting the importance of strategic planning in negotiations, urging participants to prioritise opportunities that serve the best interests of their nations.
Speaking on behalf of all participants, Koye Yani Bolongar from Chad expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India, ITEC and ICRISAT for the enriching training experience. He envisioned the programme as a catalyst for strengthening India-Africa relations and fostering robust technology sharing and transfer initiatives.
The event finally concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by senior officer, Innovation Management at ICRISAT, Sravanthi Vedula, expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made the training a resounding success.
For more information, visit: https://www.icrisat.org/
