New EDI course a big hit among foreign students

AHMEDABAD: "India is one of the leading countries in the area of cluster development in Asia, which is why I thought it's a good idea to come here to learn more," said Claudia De Leone from Guatemala, who is learning cluster development in Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDI).
Leone is part of a team of 40 delegates from 24 countries who have come to learn cluster development through an international programme called cluster development executives programme offered at EDI for the first time this year.
The experience of the country in the area of cluster development and similar challenges shared with developing countries has attracted attention of professionals working in this area in other developing countries. Another participant Juan Manuel Padin from Argentina said, "There is no point to go and learn from countries like Britain or Japan. India shares similar challenges and scenarios with that of mine."
Manuel, who is working as a technical co-ordinator with the secretariat of SMEs and regional development under the Ministry of Industry in Argentina said, "The harmonization of the private and public sectors, industries and institutes in India is done in an effective way. I will go back and try to espouse such initiatives in my country as well." The programme has also come as an opportunity to experience the country's diverse culture and food for overseas participants. Talking about her favourite food, Claudia Rodringuez, from Mexico, said, "I came across this food called gulab jamun here. I love it so much. I also like spicy food."
Impressed with Gujarat, Tomas Republic, from Czech Republic, says, "I will come back with my wife and children". The programme, which is sponsored by the Ministry of External Affairs of the government of India, began on November 8 and will conclude on December 17.