The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme was launched in 1964 as a bilateral assistance programme of the Government of India. Itis the flagship programme of the Indian Government¹s technical cooperation effort under which assistance in manpower development is provided to partner countries in diverse areas. The training programme is contributing to capacity building and human resource development in 158 countries around the world including Africa. The ITEC programme is a visible symbol of India's role and contribution to South-South Cooperation. The Government of India fully funds the ITEC courses, provides return airfare apart from giving a modest living allowance during the duration of the course.