Education

Constraints of language capability and, to some extent, geographical distance, as well as the lack of historical contact between institutions of higher education in both countries, have limited academic contacts between Colombia and India.

In recent years contacts have been increasing, although the pace has been slow.  MOUs have been signed – mostly in absentia – between some Indian and Colombian universities, but interaction has been at a low level.  Some Indian professors and experts have visited Colombia in recent years, and there are some notable Indologists and academicians in Colombian universities, who have been studying India and have written extensively on their experiences and study.

Notable Colombian universities which have collaborated with the Embassy of India and with Indian universities include:-  Sergio Arboleda; University La Tadeo; National University; Javeriana; Externado; Los Andes; Rosario in Bogota; EAFIT in Medellin –  and some in other cities.

In recent years there has been tremendous interest on account of India’s economic growth and role in world affairs, which has excited Colombian universities to hold seminars and Weeks of India all over Colombia.

From the Indian side, there has been collaboration by Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi, while a few others have expressed interest.

Colombian and Indian universities have  assisted in the publication of literature, particularly magazines and books on topics of common interest.  The Embassy of India in Colombia undertook projects for the publication of the autobiography of Mahatma Gandhi in Spanish; a magazine,  and a compilation of  high level contributions to commemorate 50 years of bilateral relations between the two countries in 2009.