The Consul General of India in Edinburgh, Mr. Bijay Selvaraj, has hosted a warm welcome event for new Indian students arriving in Scotland to pursue their academic aspirations (writes PRIYA CHADDA).
Held on November 24, 2023, the event brought together prominent guests and members of the Indian community to celebrate the achievements of these students and welcome them to their new home away from home.
Cllr Robert Aldridge, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, extended a warm welcome to the students on behalf of the city, highlighting Edinburgh’s rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere. The Lord Provost warmly greeted each student and engaged in meaningful conversations, exemplifying Edinburgh’s commitment to embracing its diverse student population.
Dr. Sreevas Sahasranamam, Senior Lecturer at the University of Strathclyde, shared his insights into the Scottish academic landscape and offered valuable advice to the Indian students, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between personal, academic, and professional well-being. His insights provided a roadmap for success, both academically and personally.
Gopalan Rajagopal, Head of TCS Scotland, offered insights into the growing opportunities in the Scottish technology sector and emphasized the significance of AI in shaping sustainable career paths. His perspective highlighted the dynamic and promising nature of the Scottish tech industry and the relevance of AI in the current job market.
An INSA student leader from Edinburgh shared his personal experiences and highlighted how INSA’s support has positively impacted his journey as a student in Scotland. His firsthand account demonstrated the tangible impact of INSA’s efforts in fostering a supportive environment for Indian students.
Enhancing the engagement of students and attendees, INSA organized a lively quiz testing their knowledge of Indian culture and Scottish traditions. The quiz not only added a touch of fun but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among the Indian students, creating a sense of belonging and shared identity.
INSA honored the remarkable contributions of Prof. Pankaj Pankaj, Personal Chair of Computational Biomechanics and International Dean for South Asia, with a prestigious
Lifetime Achievement Award. Prof. Pankaj’s unwavering dedication to education and his unwavering support for Indian students have had a profound impact on countless individuals, making him a true inspiration to the Indian student community.
Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director Education India had an amazing speech thereafter. Her speech highlighted compelling data reinforcing the strong cultural ties between the UK and India, emphasizing how this enduring relationship contributes to the growth of the UK economy. Her insights underscored the mutual benefits of cultural exchange and collaboration between the two nations.
Mr. Bijay Selvaraj, Consul General of India message to students focuses on reminding them of India’s rich academic heritage, he expressed his unwavering confidence in their ability to excel in their studies. His words of encouragement and support resonated with the students, instilling a sense of pride in their academic heritage and fueling their determination to succeed.
Puneet Dwivedi, INSA Scotland President, aware everyone with the initiatives INSA is working on tirelessly for the welfare of Indian students, and welcomed the students to INSA’s current leadership team representing various Scottish universities and encouraged them to join the organization as volunteers, contributing to the well-being of fellow Indian students. His invitation highlighted the importance of peer support and the role of INSA in fostering a sense of community among Indian students.
INSA extends a heartfelt gratitude to the exemplary students – Priya Chadha from Dundee University, Jayanth and Ninad from Edinburgh, and Jaimin Desai from Glasgow University – along with a multitude of other dedicated volunteers who have selflessly invested their time and effort in supporting Indian students transitioning from India to Scotland. Their unwavering commitment has been instrumental in guiding and assisting countless students, making their journey to Scotland smoother and more enriching.
INSA also expresses its deepest appreciation to the Consul General staff including Shobna and Hari for their meticulous planning and execution of this warm welcome event. Their unwavering dedication created a truly memorable experience for all attendees, exemplifying the spirit of hospitality and inclusivity that Scotland extends to its international students.
The event concluded with a networking reception, providing an opportunity for the new Indian students to connect with their peers, representatives from Indian organizations, and other members of the Scottish community. The delectable snacks provided during the reception were an added touch that perfectly complemented the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
INSA (Indian National Students Association) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare and advancement of Indian students in Scotland.
INSA provides a platform for Indian students to connect, socialize, and engage with the wider community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.