India council for cultural relations allocates 85 schemes to Tanzanians

DAR ES SALAAM: INDIAN Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has allocated 85 schemes to Tanzanians under Indian Africa Maitri scholarships for pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral courses in Indian universities in academic year 2024/25.

This was revealed by the Indian High Commission Charge d’Affaires, Mr Manoj Verma during the 75th Foundation Day of the ICCR celebrated recently in Dar es Salaam.

Mr Verma said the scholarship scheme aims to promote cultural exchange between Indian and African countries.

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“Applicants have the option to apply to five universities or institutes in the order of their preference of study,” he said, adding that interested candidates can submit their application online.

Speaking about ICCR celebration, he said it commemorates the legacy of cultural home exchanges and technical collaboration that has strengthened the two countries bilateral relations for decades.

“ICCR has played a significant role in connecting people and disseminating Indian culture by organising numerous Indian culture events that give way to Tanzanians to learn and be part of the culture,” he noted.

The Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) Director, Dr Soumya Chavan said ICCR aims to establish, revive and strengthen cultural relations and mutual understanding between India and other countries.

“The council addresses its mandate of cultural diplomacy through a broad range of activities that include organising cultural festivals in Tanzania, individual performers in dance, music, photography, theatre and the visual arts,” she said.

She said over the years, the Indian government has offered scholarships to many countries including Tanzanians.

“Throughout history, India and Tanzania have shared a profound connection woven through traditions, trade, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges,” she said.

Adding, it promotes mutual understanding and maintaining cultural relations between India and other countries including Tanzania.

ICCR marks the establishment of India’s soft power diplomacy, which has been a key component of the country’s foreign policy, she said.

The Tanzania Alumni of India Association (TAI) Chairman, Mr Robert Mwampembwa, said ICCR has helped a thousand people in culture exchange, relationships but also knowledge between societies.

He said it is important for societies to learn different cultures from different countries to bring one world with common understanding on culture issues.

“Having common understanding of different cultures helps to build a world with one communicating language,” he said.

He said via TIA which aims at bringing together all stakeholders who studied in India and those who are still studying will help to strengthen the cultural relationship that exists.