A special capacity development programme exclusively for a batch of 27 Liberian Nurses is set to take place at renowned Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.
The Embassy of India in Liberia hosted the participating nurses for a pre-departure orientation on 24 January 2025. Dr. Teyah Moore, Assistant Minister for Curative Services, Ministry of Health of Liberia led the Liberian nurses during the event. The event, held in Monrovia, marked a historic step in strengthening healthcare ties between India and Liberia.
Ambassador Manoj Bihari Verma and Assistant Minister for Curative Services, Dr. Teyah Moore
The group of 27 nurses, predominantly women, will soon travel to Chandigarh, India, to participate in a specialized capacity-building program on “Nursing Leadership and Management” at PGIMER, Chandigarh. The training aims to equip Liberian healthcare professionals with advanced skills and global best practices to enhance the country’s healthcare sector.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Teyah Moore, Assistant Minister for Curative Services, Ministry of Health, expressed gratitude to the Government of India for its consistent support in capacity building.
The recently arrived Indian Ambassador Manoj Bihari Verma, while addressing the participants, highlighted the importance of the ITEC program, a flagship initiative of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. Established in 1964, the program has trained over 200,000 professionals from more than 160 countries in fields such as healthcare, IT, agriculture, education, and management etc.
Ambassador Manoj Bihari Verma addressing the nurses
“This special course for Liberian nurses reflects India’s commitment to fostering global partnerships through capacity-building initiatives. ITEC is a platform for learning, collaboration, and sharing best practices. I urge all of you to make the most of this opportunity and spread the word about the wide range of available training opportunities under ITEC,” the Ambassador said.
The Ambassador also called attention to the underutilization of ITEC slots by Liberia, noting that only 200 out of 712 offered slots have been utilized so far. He urged greater participation, emphasizing the simplicity of the application process and the variety of programs available.
Assistant Minister for Curative Services, Dr. Teyah Moore addressing the nurses
The symbolic significance of the predominantly female cohort was also highlighted. The Ambassador compared their upcoming journey to the legacy of India’s all-women Formed Police Unit (FPU) under the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), which served with distinction from 2007 to 2016. “The bravery and compassion of these peacekeepers inspired Liberia, and I see the same potential in all of you to lead and bring positive change to your communities,” he added.
Dr. Moore echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that such initiatives not only build skills but also strengthen bilateral relations. He assured the Embassy of Liberia’s commitment to fully utilizing ITEC opportunities in the future.
Pre-departure orientation of the Liberian nurses at the Embassy
The nurses were given a glimpse of India’s vibrant culture, with Indian snacks like samosas and gulab jamuns served during the event. They were encouraged to explore India’s rich diversity, culinary traditions, and the scenic beauty of Chandigarh during their visit.
The training at PGIMER will expose the participants to world-class education, global healthcare practices, and leadership skills.
The Ambassador concluded the event by wishing the nurses a successful journey and encouraging them to return with new skills and inspiration. “This program is not just about individual growth but also about strengthening Liberia’s healthcare system and the bonds of friendship between our two nations,” he said.
This initiative underscores the deepening ties between India and Liberia, setting the stage for future collaborations in capacity building and development.
