The Indo-Canadian Collaboration Summit was successfully organised at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR), Chandigarh, bringing together representatives from government, industry associations, and academia to explore avenues for collaboration in innovation, entrepreneurship, and skill development between India and Canada.
The event began with a welcome address by Prof. Gurpreet Kaur, Director – Women Entrepreneurship Development, Punjab Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), who highlighted the importance of global partnerships in strengthening innovation ecosystems and fostering meaningful collaboration between industry and academia.
Prashant Srivastava, President of the Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce, spoke about expanding opportunities for bilateral trade and industry partnerships, while Mr Anuj Bhasin, Trade Commissioner from Alberta, Canada, highlighted the prospects for deeper cooperation in innovation and industry development.
Hon. Neena Tangri, Minister of Small Business, Government of Ontario, Canada, delivered a special address emphasising the growing economic relationship between India and Canada and the immense potential for collaboration in entrepreneurship, small business development, and trade.
The gathering was also addressed by Dr Bhola Ram Gurjar, Director, NITTTR Chandigarh, and Mr Dalip Sharma, Director, Punjab Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who stressed the importance of industry–academia collaboration in driving economic growth.
Sanjay Malhotra, company Secretary appreciated the initiative and noted that such international platforms play an important role in encouraging global partnerships, investment opportunities, and entrepreneurial growth. Sharing the regional industry perspective, Mr Boparai from the Mohali Industries Association highlighted the role of global collaborations in strengthening the industrial ecosystem of the region.
A major highlight of the summit was the signing of several MoUs between Indian academic institutions and the Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce to promote collaborative initiatives, including AI-based courses, innovation programs, student exchange, and faculty development initiatives.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Harsh Samalia, Head, Entrepreneurship Development Department, NITTTR Chandigarh.