Rumana Akoob, second-year Journalism student at the Durban University of Technology has returned from a three week academic tour in India.

The 20-year old student from Bakerville, Durban, was one of the two DUT students chosen by the government of India to be part of 29 participants from seven countries in the “Know India” 2013 programme. The Know India programme is carried out three times a year for Indian diaspora from all over the world. It is organised and paid for by the Ministry Of Overseas Indian Affairs. The aim of the programme is to allow students and young professionals between the ages of 18 to 26 to engage with Indian citizens to gain a better understanding of India.

Ramana described the trip as a “lifetime experience”, saying she is proud to be part of the program. She said the participants were shown around the country’s capital and other cities.
The soft-spoken Ramana said the best part of her tour was witnessing the 100 years of Indian Cinema celebrations which took place at the at the International Indian Film Academy Awards.
“During the stay in India, the 100 years of Indian Cinema celebrations were under way in Delhi. Veteran director, Karan Johar, was among the quest speakers. It is a beautiful experience to witness developing India and how much potential the country has,” she said.

– Thabo Maile

Pictured: Ramana Akoob, second-year Journalism student at DUT who recently returned from a three week tour in India.