Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP)
With the objective of strengthening and broadening their relations in the cultural field, India and Guyana concluded a Cultural Agreement in 1974 which came into force on March 31, 1977. Pursuant to this agreement, the first Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for 1994, 1995 and 1996 between the two countries was signed in 1993 in New Delhi during the visit of President Cheddi Jagan. The current CEP for 2007, 2008 and 2009 provides for:
a) Visit of a cultural troupe from India to Guyana;
b) Exchange of Archivists and records of mutual interest
c) Training of Guyanese officials in Archives Management by the National Archives of India
d) Exchange of exhibitions between National Art Galleries of the two countries.
Cultural troupes from India under the CEP, and outside the CEP, have been visiting and performing in different parts of Guyana from time to time.
ITEC Scholarships
Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme popularly known as ITEC was launched in 1964 as a bilateral programme of assistance of the Government of India. Over the years more than 300 Guyanese nationals have undergone training under ITEC programme in various institutions in India. Besides, some experts from India are deputed to Guyana in specified areas.
Other scholarships
Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has instituted scholarship schemes for students from certain Asian, African and Latin countries (including Guyana). These are –
(i) General Cultural Scholarship Scheme for undergraduate, postgraduate and for pursuing research
(ii) ICCR Scholarships meant for training in dance, music, painting, sculpture and other forms of fine arts.
(iii) Commonwealth Scholarships meant for nationals of Commonwealth countries for higher education.
Guyanese nationals have been availing of these scholarships every year on a regular basis.
Indian Cultural Centre
Indian Cultural Centre in Georgetown was established in 1972 with the objective of strengthening cultural relations and mutual understanding between India and Guyana and their peoples. The Centre runs regular classes in Yoga and Dance (Kathak). The Centre has a well equipped Auditorium where cultural events are organized on a regular basis. The teachers and students of ICC participate in events by the local community on culture, mythology and works of eminent scholars and authors.
Apart from running regular classes in Yoga and Dance (Kathak), the Centre in recent past introduced teaching of Indian Folk Dances which have become very popular with young girls.
In furtherance of expansion of its activities, the Centre has plans for imparting training in Vocal and Harmonium to begin with the children of 8- 18 age groups from 1st August, 2013.
Due to strong presence of Indian diaspora and PIO among Guyanese, Indian films and songs, especially Bollywood films, are very popular here.
In fulfillment of their aspirations and wishes, the Centre also on monthly basis organizes screening of Indian films in its auditorium which gets admiration from one and all.
The Centre is located at 67, New Haven, Bel Air, Georgetown. (Phone: 592-226-9369/227-4685)
August 2021
