(JUBA) – The Embassy of India in South Sudan brought together government officials and past trainees on 26 September 2025 for an ITEC alumni meeting in Juba aimed at reaffirming cooperation in skills training between India and South Sudan.
The gathering drew a large turnout of former participants of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme, alongside senior civil servants and diplomats.
Among the main guests was Professor Julia Aker Duany, the Chairperson of the South Sudan Civil Service Commission, who praised India for investing directly in human capacity instead of handouts.
The Indian Ambassador said training exchanges were an important part of cooperation between countries in the global south. He encouraged South Sudanese professionals who trained in India to use their skills to help improve public services at home.
According to the embassy, India has hosted hundreds of South Sudanese trainees in areas such as information technology, public administration, engineering and health in recent years. No figures were given, but participants said the courses were highly practical and often included cultural visits.
Several alumni shared their experiences from time spent in cities such as Delhi, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, describing the hospitality and discipline they encountered. Some called for refresher courses so that skills gained are not lost.
Professor Duany thanked India for choosing to build long lasting partnerships based on education rather than charity. She said trained officials were already applying their new knowledge inside ministries and departments.
The event ended with a shared dinner featuring traditional Indian food. Organisers said they plan to host similar alumni meetings in other states so that more South Sudanese can reconnect and support each other.
According to some participants, India’s focus on training rather than loans or aid has built strong goodwill among South Sudanese officials. Many now argue that scholarships and technical courses may have more impact than infrastructure grants that often stall.
According to a statement released by the Indian Embassy in Juba, with growing demand for professional skills across South Sudan, both sides have agreed that people to people contacts remain the simplest but most effective form of cooperation.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Event | ITEC Alumni Gathering hosted by Embassy of India |
| Date | 26 September 2025 |
| Location | Juba, South Sudan |
| Key Guest | Prof Julia Aker Duany, Chairperson – South Sudan Civil Service Commission |
| Main Focus | Strengthening India–South Sudan cooperation through skills training |
| Participants | ITEC alumni, senior civil servants, diplomats, media |
| Core Message | Apply acquired skills to improve public services in South Sudan |
| Notable Outcome | Strong praise for India’s focus on capacity building rather than financial aid |
| Cultural Element | Event concluded with traditional Indian dinner |
| Future Plan | More alumni gatherings to be held in other states |
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