India offers fully-funded courses to Commonwealth citizens

India has started fully-funded training courses for Commonwealth citizens across a range of areas, including rural development, renewable energy and IT, under a programme that aims to build capacity in member countries.

The courses are sponsored by India and delivered by institutions through the Indian Technical and Economic (ITEC) Programme.

ITEC is part of the Commonwealth Secretariat's Third Country Training Programmes, which aims to build capacity in member countries by providing specialist training in key areas of development work.

"I would like to thank the Government of India for providing this excellent opportunity for Commonwealth citizens to develop and hone their skills and expertise in areas which are crucial for sustainable development," said Pauline Campbell, Head of Technical Assistance at the Commonwealth Secretariat.

She added: "This is a fantastic opportunity for those in the public and private sectors, as well those who work with NGOs. I encourage you to check the eligibility criteria and send your application early, in order to meet the deadlines."

India has allocated 30 places for participants from Commonwealth member states for the 2016-2017 Programme, a statement said.