A highly skilled and competent public service is essential to the Government’s strong commitment toward digitalization, building a drug-free nation, and strengthening anti-corruption measures. The ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation) Scholarship Programme plays a vital role in equipping our officials with the knowledge, technical expertise, and ethical standards required to effectively support such national priorities, stated the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
ITEC Day was held on Saturday (14 February 2026) evening at the Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre in Jaffna, organized by the Consulate General of India in Jaffna. The Governor made these remarks while addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at the event.
Further elaborating in his speech, the Governor stated:
The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme has made a significant impact on human resource development in the Northern Province. In 2024, 40 officers benefited from the programme, while in 2025, 45 officers received training under it. So far this year, three officers have been selected. This steady increase clearly reflects the confidence our officials place in this prestigious programme.
The training received in India has broadened the perspectives of our officers. They return to the country with renewed confidence, a global outlook, and a strong commitment to excellence in public service. Skilled officials of this nature are essential for the sustainable development of a region such as the Northern Province, which has faced numerous challenges.
We hope that in the future, further opportunities will be provided in emerging fields such as information technology, artificial intelligence, accounting, and taxation.
To achieve the current Government’s key policy pillars—economic stabilization, national security, good governance, and technology-driven social protection—programmes such as ITEC are preparing our officials effectively, he added.
The Governor also expressed his deep appreciation for India’s continued support in the development of human resources.
Among those who attended the event were the Consul General of India in Jaffna, Sai Murali; Jaffna District Member of Parliament Hon. J. Rajeewan; the Chief Secretary of the Northern Province; Secretaries to the Provincial Ministries – Northern Province; Deputy Chief Secretaries; the Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya; Deans and Professors of the University of Jaffna; Heads of Departments; and past and present officers who received training under the ITEC programme.
