"I had a life
and career changing experience by being a part of this programme."

SIP Participant

learning in India. During the visit, they are invited to experience Indian culture in its myriad forms, gain greater understanding of how Indian industries and commerce operate and explore the longstanding relationship between the UK and India.

The fi rst week of the programme involved interaction with resource persons directed towards understanding Indian culture, social and political systems. Various visits under the programme in the fi rst week were organised to acquaint the participants with India’s rich cultural heritage which included – Railway Museum, Birla Mandir, Dilli Haat, Gandhi Smriti, Centre for Contemporary Indian Arts and Crafts, etc., which provided them a greater insight into the culture and heritage of India.

The second week was devoted to internships for students with leading Indian organisations in diverse sectors like development, education, engineering, publishing, etc. including working with NGOs. The third and fi nal week was spent by students shadowing an Indian buddy for a broader understanding of the college life in India

The three packed weeks thus provided the students the opportunity for personal involvement with different organisations in the fi elds of art, culture, heritage, charity, fi nance and trade. There have been signifi cant statements of support for the programme, and in some cases, evidence of concrete impact on individuals. One of the participants of the programme shares her experience, “I had a life and career changing experience by being a part of this programme. I took this opportunity to use all my time in Mumbai to observe surgical procedures at the hospital where I was interning. I have now been invited by the consultant in charge of my placement to return and take part in a conference later in the year and I am now thinking of revisiting my career plan to include a period of work in India in the future.”

One of the greatest achievements of SIP has been that it has helped young minds see the errors of preconceived notions based on imagination alone, by giving them an opportunity to experience reality. One of the key highlights of the programme has been the effective utilisation of student ambassadors who were selected to represent the programme throughout the year. They have been instrumental in helping to promote and structure the programme more effectively.

The success of this programme has been contributing towards a wider understanding of the differences – as well as the similarities – between the UK and India. It is an initiative towards integrating the new world reality and values in the young so that they are ready to take their much deserved place as responsible, reliable and reasonable citizens of the global economy. SIP has worked towards making a contribution for a better tomorrow.