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On 11th February 2025, Texila American University (TAU) hosted an insightful Awareness & Interaction Session in collaboration with the High Commission of India. Held at Classroom #B205 at 10:45 AM, this event was specifically tailored for Indian students in Guyana, offering them an excellent opportunity to learn about the services available from the High Commission and gain valuable insights into the lifestyle in Guyana.
The session began with a Welcome Note from Dr. Dheeraj Bansal, the Chief Academic Officer (CAO) and Dean of the TAU College of Medicine (TAUCOM). Dr. Bansal set the stage for the session, emphasizing the importance of connecting students with relevant resources that could help them during their time in Guyana.
Next, a Special Address was delivered by Mr. Mukesh, the Consular of the High Commission of India (HCI), who provided comprehensive details on the various services available to Indian nationals living in Guyana. His address included important information about consular assistance, visa services, and cultural exchange programs, all designed to support students throughout their academic and personal journeys.
The session concluded with a Thanks Note by Dr. Ajay, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Registrar of TAU, who expressed gratitude to all the attendees and speakers, highlighting the significance of such events in strengthening the ties between the Indian community and the High Commission.
Purpose of the Session
The primary goal of this session was to increase awareness among Indian students regarding the diverse services provided by the High Commission of India to its nationals in Guyana. The session focused on helping students understand how they can benefit from these services, which cover a wide range of needs, from consular assistance to opportunities for cultural exchange.
Key Areas Covered During the Event:
Consular Assistance: Students were informed about the support available for emergencies, legal matters, and documentation requirements. This includes services such as passport renewals, notarial services, and assistance in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Register with the High Commission of India (HCI): All Indian students are encouraged to register with the HCI through their online platform. Additionally, an exclusive WhatsApp group has been created for all official communications. By registering, students can expedite the processing time for various services offered by the High Commission, such as consular assistance and visa-related matters.
Valid Passport & Visa: The Consular stressed the importance of having both a valid passport and a valid visa throughout their stay in Guyana. Maintaining up-to-date travel documents is not only crucial for compliance with local laws but also necessary for accessing any verification or consular support from the High Commission. Without valid documents, students may face delays in receiving assistance.
Apostille by the High Commission of India: Students were instructed to get their degree certificates and transcripts attested by the High Commission before returning to India. To avail the apostille service (an international certification of documents), students must present both valid passports and visas. This ensures that all official documentation is properly authenticated for use in India.
Visa Services: Detailed information was shared on visa applications, renewals, and other related processes to help students navigate the legalities of staying in Guyana.
Cultural Exchange Programs: The session highlighted opportunities for students to engage in cultural activities both in Guyana and India. These programs provide students with a platform to strengthen cross-cultural understanding and foster deeper connections between the two countries.
Other Resources: Additional services available to students were also discussed, including community support and networking opportunities within the Indian diaspora in Guyana. These services are aimed at helping students stay connected with their roots and build a strong sense of community abroad.
In conclusion, the Awareness & Interaction Session was a significant event that offered Indian students in Guyana an invaluable opportunity to learn about the High Commission’s resources and how they can benefit from them. It highlighted the importance of such collaborative efforts in fostering a supportive environment for international students and strengthening the connection between the Indian community and the High Commission.
