Latest News & Update

What we are doing

There are Eight Commonwealth countries in Asia, namely Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, India, Malaysia, Maldives, Pakistan, Singapore and Sri Lanka. There are RCS branches in all bar Brunei Darussalam plus branches and associated organisations elsewhere in the region. RCS Regional Co-ordinators are in touch with all branches, helping to disseminate information and liaising over programmes and activities.

For queries about our workings and events please contact events team: events.cswgi@gmail.com

This section of the website shares the details of the regular work The CSWGI undertakes engaging various stakeholders with different focus areas.

What's happening..

H. E. Mrs Harisoa Lalatiana Accouche

meeting: High Commission of the Republic of Seychelles, New Delhi

Officials and Members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India participated in a fruitful, informative and knowledge enhancing session with:

H.E. Mrs Harisoa Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of the Republic of Seychelles to India at the High Commission of Seychelles, New Delhi

Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) gave an overview of the workings and International Projects of the CSWGI. Key topics of discussions included, but not limited to:

Youth Exchange Project
Enhancement of Trade and Tourism
Academic Collaborations and Exchanges
India-Seychelles Relations and the Commonwealth

Her Excellency's wisdom and passion for strengthening bilateral ties between our nations is truly inspiring. Mrs. Accouche is a visionary leader who shares our passion for youth, sustainability and engagement. With Her Excellency's guidance, we are confident that our shared endeavors will pave the way for positive change and meaningful partnerships. We look forward to a bright future of collaboration and cooperation.

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Commonwealth Youth Empowerment Conclave (CYEC)

youth conclave: RNAR College, Samastipur, Bihar

The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised a grassroot level Commonwealth Youth Empowerment Conclave (CYEP) with the theme Youth Leadership for Sustainable Development in collaboration with RNAR College, Samastipur, Bihar. The Conclave was organised under the Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce (CWCC). It was a true celebration of innovation, empowerment, and the limitless potential of our young leaders. It brought together over 200 passionate and motivated youth from all across Samastipur, Bihar.

The conclave was a platform for youth voices to rise, to resonate, and to amplify. Innovative workshops and interactive panels allowed participants to discuss challenges, explore opportunities, and devise actionable solutions. The energy in the air was palpable as young minds collaborated, debated, and formulated ideas that could pave the way for a brighter, sustainable future.

The conclave concluded with a collective promise to harness the power of youth leadership to steer our world towards a more sustainable and equitable future. The event showcased that the energy, innovation, and determination of the youth are the driving forces that can shape societies and redefine possibilities.

The Commonwealth Secretariat endorsed the event as a key component of the Commonwealth Year of the Youth 2023, emphasizing its global importance and dedication to cultivating youth leadership and promoting sustainable transformation. The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI), as a branch of the Royal Commonwealth Society in India has always been dedicated to empowering youth for a sustainable tomorrow. This designation marked its significance on a global scale, underlining the event's commitment to fostering youth leadership and driving sustainable change.

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RCS Asia-Pacific Regional Conference

regional conference: NSRCC Resort & Country Club, Singapore

As a follow-up to the RCS Asia Regional Conference held in March 2019 in Hong Kong, the second RCS Regional Conference upgraded to Asia-Pacific was hosted by RCS Singapore Branch. This event was jointly organized by RCS Singapore, RCS Hong Kong and the Commonwealth Students Welfare Group of India (CSWGI), branch of RCS in India. The conference was held at NSRCC Resort & Country Club, Singapore. The conference was attended by over 30 delegates representing branches from Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and UK. The conference delivered four sessions in two days.

OPENING CEREMONY:

The Welcome Address was given by H.E. Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, High Commissioner of Rwanda to Singapore (and Australia). Rwanda is currently Commonwealth Chair-in-Office. His Excellency said he was glad to see so many delegates from different Commonwealth countries come together to discuss important issues such as Youth Affairs, Climate Change and Economic Co-operation.

He said that despite an unfortunate history, Rwanda had transformed itself into a fast-growing economy with improved education and inclusion of women in the workforce (now standing at 60%). He said that Commonwealth membership had given Rwanda access to economic and educational opportunities including the support of bigger nations on global issues such as climate change.

SESSION 1: YOUTH IS OUR FUTURE

Moderator: Hari Om Dahiya (India)

Leadership in Education: James Teo (Director, Management Development Institute)
Youth Engagement: Cindy Chang (Singapore); Hari Om Dahiya (India)
Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition: Dr Anthony Yee (Singapore)
Women's Affairs: Cindy Chang and Cecilia Leong Faulkner (Singapore)

SESSION 2: A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Moderator: Hari Om Dahiya (India)

Sustainability-opening remarks: Dr Anthony Yee (Singapore)
Bio-Degradable Plastics: Roland Wee (Chairman, RWDC, Singapore)
Queen's Commonwealth Canopy: Libby Ellis (RCS South Australia)
Sustainable Food: Cyril Pereira (Malaysia)
Protecting our Oceans: Julian Chang (International Sea Keepers Society)

Welcome Reception and Drinks at Sky Park in NSRCC Country Club courtesy Roland Wee (Chairman, RWDC, Singapore)

SESSION 3: THE COMMONWEALTH ADVANTAGE

Moderator: Hari Om Dahiya (India)

CPTPP and Commonwealth Trade: Julia Charlton (Founder, Charltons, HK)
Hong Kong – Bridge to China’s Greater Bay Area: Andrew Wells (Sec-Gen, Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce HK)
Youth & Women Entrepreneurship: Hari Om Dahiya (Founder & President: Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce, India)
The Commonwealth’s Role in UK’s Indo-Pacific Tilt: Ben Delo (Philanthropist, HK)

SPECIAL SESSION: RCS LONDON AND BRANCH RELATIONSHIP
Speaker:

Elizabeth (Libby) Van der Valk (Chief Operating Officer, Royal Commonwealth Society)

SESSION 4: BRANCH REPORTS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Representatives of RCS Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, South Australia, Victoria, Wellington and Nigeria.

Future Directions:

Reafforestation: Mr Ben Delo said he was acquiring a rainforest in Carriacou, an island in Grenada, which he would consider dedicating to the Royal Commonwealth Society. With this announcement, Mr Hari Om Dahiya undertook to double the number of trees that Ben might plant in India.
Future Regional Meetings: Possible venues - Kuala Lumpur, Adelaide, Fiji and New Delhi.
Children’s Football Alliance. Peace pitches had been established in Hong Kong and Delhi.

The delegates also enjoyed Drinks at the Temasek Club and also paid a visit to Gardens by the Bay.

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Commonwealth Panel Discussion

panel discussion: B.R. Ambedkar International Center, New Delhi

The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised a Commonwealth Panel Discussion on Climate Change and Sustainability in collaboration with Department of Geography, Dyal Singh College (University of Delhi) at B.R. Ambedkar International Center, New Delhi.

The Distinguished Guest of Honour and Panelist included:

1. H.E. Mr Juan R Angulo Monsalve, Ambassador of the Republic of Chile to India

2. Ms Arina Cosac, Head: Climate Change Policy, British High Commission, New Delhi

3. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman: The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India (CSWGI); Founder & President: The Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce (CWCC)

4. Ms Reema Bhatoolaul-Robee, Second Secretary, Mauritius High Commission, New Delhi

5. Mr Anuj Dahiya, Deputy District Attorney, District Court: Rohtak

6. Dr Sayed Zaheen Alam, Teacher-in-Charge, Department of Geography, Dyal Singh College

7. Mr Sumit Kumar, President: Department of Geography, Dyal Singh College

The event also witnessed the Inauguration of the Student Magazine: Dharini

The event was supported by the Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce (CWCC)

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SANSAD-The National Youth Parliament

conference: Model Youth Parliament, New Delhi

The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) was the International organising partner at SANSAD - The National Youth Parliament, which is a National Level Model Youth Parliament Program. Participants from all over India participated and witnessed this event. SANSAD lays a bridge between youth, like-minded people working for society, and government by providing a common platform and foster for a healthy discussion on political reforms, parliamentary activities, policymaking, education, and employment.

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Commonwealth Interactive Session

youth interactive session: Dept. of Geography, Dyal Singh College, New Delhi

Officials and members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised a Commonwealth Interactive Session at the Department of Geography, Dyal Singh College. Mr Peter Mann MBE was the keynote speaker who shared the valuable insights about the RCS, Commonwealth, Environment among other topics, with the budding geographers. Mr Sumit Kumar, President, Department of Geography assisted in coordinating to organise the event at the College.

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Mr Peter Mann MBE

interaction & prize distribution: Rajkamal International School, Mehara

Officials and members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) welcomed Mr Peter Jonathan Mann MBE, Chairman, Royal Commonwealth Society, Hong Kong in India and organised a Commonwealth Interactive Session and Prize Distribution Ceremony at Rajkamal International School, Mehara (Rajasthan). Mr Peter Mann MBE encouraged the young students to participate in the Queens Commonwealth Essay Competition organised by the Royal Commonwealth Society London annually. Other dignitaries present were Mr Shiv Kumar Dahiya, Mr Pargat Singh, Mr Rajinder Dahiya, Founder (Rajkamal Shiksha Samiti).

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National Day of the Dominican Republic

reception: Embassy of the Dominican Republic, New Delhi

Officials and members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) participated in reception to celebrate the National Day of the Dominican Republic hosted by H.E. Mr David Emmanuel Puig Buchel, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Dominican Republic in New Delhi. H.E. Mrs. Meenakshi Lekhi, Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Culture, Government of India was the Guest of Honour for the evening. The High Commissioners and diplomats of various High Commissions and Embassies along with representatives from Ministry of External Affairs were in attendance. The function was held at The Imperial Hotel New Delhi.

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1st International Peace Field Project

peace field: Green Fields School, New Delhi

Officials and members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India & The Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce (CWCC) collaborated with Children's Football Alliance (CFA), who are the custodians of the International Children’s Football Alliance to establish the 1st Peace Field Pitch at Green Fields School, New Delhi. Peace Field Project celebrates peace through play and the established pitch twin with the historic Flanders Peace Field. Their mission statement: Protect Childhood Through Play.

India sent 1.5 million soldiers to fight in the First World War. At the war’s end, India had suffered more than 120,000 total casualties – men killed, wounded, or missing.

The International Peace Fields Project currently has 63 peace pitches in 5 continents. The peace pitches promote friendship for all.

The successfully concluded program included the following dignitaries:

Mr Ernie Brennan, CEO: CFA
Ms Devika Malik, Wheeling Happiness
Dr Geeta Rani Arora, The Swayam Foundation
Mr Prithvi Jagan, ICFA

Mr Hari Om Dahiya shared the importance of peace through sports and added ‘A feast and privilege for our soul to see peace building efforts through sports and children being the epicenter of it. As an educationalist with many years experience working towards youth and women empowerment, I look forward to promoting the Peace Fields Project and championing Green Fields School, as a beacon project that brought communities together and made new friends for life’.

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1st India-Malaysia Commonwealth Youth Exchange Project

youth exchange: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Officials and members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India were on an Official visit to Malaysia from 19-27 November 2022 to enhance the already strong ties of our Countries (India-Malaysia) for 1st India-Malaysia Commonwealth Youth Exchange Project (IMCYEP). The IMCYEP is a joint project of The CSWGI & Royal Commonwealth Society Malaysia branch. The primary focus of the visiting delegation was to understanding and forging a close cooperation between our two Countries at youth level, as well as establishing contacts, exchanging experiences and best practices and discussing possibilities for synergies in future between India and Malaysia in field of youth collaboration and exchange of Educational programs and ideas. The visit strengthens the Youth engagement ties of our countries and RCS Branch level bonding.

The successfully concluded visit included Commonwealth High Profile meetings with:

H.E. Mr B. N. Reddy, High Commissioner of India to Malaysia
Mr Dhanesh Basil, President: MIYC Kebangsaan - மலேசிய இந்தியர் இளைஞர் மன்றம்
Mr Sanjay Sangaran, Operations Head: IFTC International Academy of Fashion & Design
YBrs Dr Vellapandian Ponnusamy, Chief Executive Officer: Institute of Youth Research Malaysia (IYRES), Ministry of Youth & Sports

The Delegates also visited Historical Hindu Site – Batu Caves, KL Tower, Petaling Street, Petronas Towers among other touristic places.

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Mr Muhammad Akmal Hafiz Aziz

meeting: Tourism Malaysia, Malaysian High Commission, New Delhi

Officials and Members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India participated in a fruitful, informative and knowledge enhancing session with:

Mr Muhammad Akmal Hafiz Aziz, Deputy Director, Tourism Malaysia, Malaysian High Commission, New Delhi
Ms Poonam Nautiyal, Marketing Manager, Tourism Malaysia

Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) gave an overview of the upcoming 1st India-Malaysia Commonwealth Youth Exchange Project (IMCYEP) to be taking place in Kaula Lumpur, Malaysia from 19-27 November 2022. Mr Akmal gave an orientation of the Malaysia Product Presentation. The interaction was followed by High Tea and the participants received Tourism Malaysia souvenirs.

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H. E. Mr Peter Hobwani

meeting: Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe, New Delhi

Members and Officials of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India participated in a fruitful, informative, and knowledge enhancing session with:

H. E. Mr Peter Hobwani, Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe to India

at Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe, New Delhi. India-Zimbabwe Relations and its future potential were focused along with delivering of a Youth Exchange Project in Zimbabwe.

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H. E. Mr David Emmanuel Puig Buchel

meeting: Embassy of the Dominican Republic, New Delhi

Members and Officials of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India participated in a fruitful, informative, and knowledge enhancing session with:

H. E. Mr David Emmanuel Puig Buchel, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to India
Ms Bianca Báez Pearson, First Secretary

at Embassy of the Dominican Republic, New Delhi. India-Dominican Republic Relations: Commercial, Political, Socio-Economical were focused along with delivering of a Youth Exchange Project. Together, we discussed the India-Dominican Republic relations and ways to connect the youth of both countries.

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H. E. Mr Kondi Mani

meeting: Togo High Commission, New Delhi

Officials and Members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India had a very fruitful, informative and knowledge enhancing interactive session with:

H. E. Mr Kondi Mani, Chargé d' Affaires a.i.
Mr Basil H. Tokinai, Financial Attaché

at the High Commission of the Togolese Republic, New Delhi, India. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman, the Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) marked the occasion by officially welcoming the Togolese Republic to the Commonwealth Family.

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SANSAD-The National Youth Parliament

conference: Model Youth Parliament, New Delhi

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Commonwealth Day 2022

reception: Mr Alex Ellis CMG, New Delhi

Members and Officials of the Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) participated at a reception to mark the Commonwealth Day 2022. The reception was hosted by H.E. Mr Alex Ellis CMG, the British High Commissioner to India at his residence in New Delhi. Attendees also included diplomats from other Commonwealth Countries based in India.

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Commonwealth Webinar

webinar: Enhancing Commonwealth Cooperation, Online

The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised and hosted an International Commonwealth Webinar:

Topic: Enhancing Commonwealth Cooperation

Day 1: Saturday, 29th January 2022, 01:00 PM GMT (UK Time)

Regions: Americas & Caribbean, Europe, Africa

Day 2: Sunday, 30th January 2022, 11:30 AM IST (India Time)

Regions: Asia & Pacific

The webinar witnessed an excellent participation from all the regions of the Commonwealth along with members of the respective RCS Branches. This Commonwealth Webinar was supported by The Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce (CWCC).

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Commonwealth Webinar

webinar: The Commonwealth Challenge, Online

The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised and hosted an International Commonwealth Webinar:

Topic: The Commonwealth Challenge: how to make the Commonwealth impactful?

Day 1: Monday, 29th November 2021, 01:00 PM GMT (UK Time)

Regions: Americas & Caribbean, Europe, Africa

Speakers:

Peter Meincke (RCS Canada),
Rogiero K Verma (RCS Wales),
Prof. Daniella Tilbury (RCS Gibraltar),
Blackson Olaseni Bayewumi (RCS Nigeria),
Prof. Achilles Emilianides (RCS Cyprus),
Victor Ndede (RCS Kenya)

Moderator: Peter Mann MBE (RCS Hong Kong)

Day 2: Tuesday, 30th November 2021, 11:30 AM IST (India Time)

Regions: Asia & Pacific

Speakers:

Hari Om Dahiya (CSWGI),
Tissa Jayaweera (RCS Sri Lanka),
Peter Mann MBE (RCS Hong Kong),
Dr. Anthony Yee (RCS Singapore),
Jack Milne (RCS ACT Canberra),
Libby Ellis (RCS South Australia),
Darryl Stevens MNZM (RCS New Zealand)

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H.E. Mr Jason Keats M. Hall

meeting: Jamaica High Commission, New Delhi

Officials and Members of The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India had a very fruitful interactive session with H.E. Mr Jason Keats M. Hall, the First Resident High Commissioner of Jamaica at the High Commission of Jamaica, New Delhi, India.

The theme of the session was “India-Jamaica Relations and the Commonwealth”. His Excellency the High Commissioner discussed in detail about the future potential of collaboration opportunities between the two countries especially in the Youth sector amongst others.

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RCS Video Podcast

video podcast: Introduction to the RCS, YouTube

RCS Cyprus initiated a series of video podcasts titled ‘Meet the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) and the Commonwealth’. In this first episode with title 'Introduction to Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) Network', the history, the mission and the main activities of the RCS network were discussed.
Discussants

Mr Nathan McKenzie, Head of Public Affairs of RCS London
Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI), Regional Youth Coordinator of RCS

Moderator:
The video podcast was moderated by Mr Marinos Papaioakeim, Director, Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS), Cyprus Branch

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International Youth Webinar with Future Leaders

webinar: Youth Aspirations

The Commonwealth Students' Welfare Group of India partnered with International Society for Research on Children and Youth in organising International Youth Webinar with 6 Future Leaders from 6 countries representing 5 regions going LIVE on 30th May at 6:00 PM IST to discuss "Youth Aspirations, The Changing World Views and Planning for the Future in the contest of COVID 19 Pandemic Situation". The speakers included Mr Tijani Christian: Chairperson- Commonwealth Youth Council (Jamaica-North American Region), Ms Tamara Richardson: UNESCO Associate-Intercultural & Interreligious Relations (Australia-Pacific Region), Mr Eman Borg: Maltese Commonwealth Youth Ambassador & Associate Fellow of the Royal Commonwealth Society (Malta–Europe Region), Mr Ekima Emma: National Representative in Uganda to Commonwealth Youth Council (Uganda-African Region), Ms Chanuka Thilakarathna: International Youth Advocate, National Youth Services Council (Sri Lanka-Asian Region) & Mr Hari Om Dahiya: President & Youth Chairman (The CSWGI), Regional Youth Coordinator of Royal Commonwealth Society (India-Asian Region). The webinar was moderated by Mr Hari Om Dahiya. The event was participated by the officials and members of The CSWGI along with participants from different countries across the globe.

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1st India-Mauritius Commonwealth Youth Project

youth exchange: Republic of Mauritius

In accordance with our group’s agenda to strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual understanding and to gain more insight over the workings of the Commonwealth and other commonwealth Institutions, a delegation of The CSWGI visited the Republic of Mauritius from February 09-16, 2020.

The primary focus of the visiting delegation was to understanding and forging a close cooperation between our two Countries at youth level, as well as establishing contacts, exchanging experiences and best practices and discussing possibilities for synergies in future between India and Mauritius in field of youth collaboration and exchange of Educational programs and ideas.

The successfully concluded visit included Commonwealth High Profile meetings with

The Honorable Mrs Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, GCSK: Minister of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity. Along with presentation from the Ministry and interaction with Permanent Secretary and Commissioners of various divisions.
The Honorable Jean Christophe Stephan Toussaint, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Recreation
Hon. Juman Mohamed Ehsan, Member of Parliament
Dr Radhakhrishna Somanah (Dinesh), Director-General, Université des Mascareignes (UDM)
Mr Mohammad Yaaseen Edoo, Queens Young Leader (2015), Associate Fellow of the Royal Commonwealth Society
Ms Zahirah Bibi Radha, Editor-in-Chief, Sunday Times
H.E. Mr Tanmaya Lal, High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Mauritius

Interactive sessions with students took place at Université des Mascareignes (UDM). Mr Yaaseen Edoo, Queens Young Leader from Mauritius and Associate Fellow of the Royal Commonwealth Society, assisted in finalising the interactions.

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H.E. Dr. Michael Aron N. N. Oquaye Jr.

meeting: Ghana High Commission, New Delhi

H.E. Dr. Michael Aaron N. N. Oquaye Esq (Jnr), High Commissioner of the Republic of Ghana to India hosted an interactive session followed by High Tea for the officials and members of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) at the Ghana High Commission, New Delhi. The theme of the interactive session was “India-Ghana Relations & Modern Commonwealth”. The members were given insight about the strong and rich historical relations shared by the two countries and future commitments. His Excellency the High Commissioner discussed in detail about the future potential of collaboration opportunities between the two countries especially in the Youth sector amongst others. High Commissioner assured his kind guidance and assistance in future youth centric projects of The CSWGI.

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The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC

visit: Commonwealth Secretary General, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) attended a reception in honor of the Commonwealth Secretary General The Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland QC's visit to India. The Secretary General shared the importance of Commonwealth for India in Modern times. The Ghana High Commissioner, current High Commissioners, Bureaucrats and former diplomats amongst others were in attendance. The function was held at The Oberoi Hotel New Delhi.

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H.E. Mr Yerlan Alimbayev

meeting: Embassy of Kazakhstan, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) had a fruitful and knowledge enhancing discussion cum interactive session with H.E. Mr Yerlan Alimbayev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan in India over high tea to discuss 'India-Kazakhstan relations and Education in Kazakhstan'. The meeting took place at the Embassy of Kazakhstan in New Delhi. The Ambassador discussed in detail the recent developments in India-Kazakh relations in all sectors and possibilities of an active youth focused cultural exchange program between CSWGI and Kazakhstan. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) & RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, shared with The Ambassador and other officials about the past and upcoming Cross-cultural Youth Exchange Projects of the CSWGI. The topics of discussion included but not limited to the bilateral trade, socio-economic ties, women & youth empowerment, academic and people to people contact between out two great nations.

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FIJI National Day

celebration: Fiji High Commission, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) participated in Fiji Symposium to mark the Fiji National Day, hosted by the Fiji High Commission, New Delhi. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) & RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, India, congratulated and extended the greetings to H.E. Mr Yogesh Punja, High Commissioner of Fiji to India. The Symposium was organised to celebrate the Fiji National Day. High Commissioners and diplomats representing different countries along with dignitaries from various walks of Indian Society were in attendance. H.E. Mr A. Gitesh Sarma, Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs & India’s High Commissioner-Designate to Australia was the Chief Guest. It was followed by the traditional Fijian Lunch. The event was held at Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.

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H.E. Mr Paulias Korni OBE

meeting: PNG High Commission, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) met H.E. Mr Paulias Korni OBE, High Commissioner of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea in India over high tea to discuss 'India-PNG relations and the Commonwealth'. The meeting took place at the Papua New Guinea High Commission, New Delhi. The High Commissioner discussed in detail the possibilities of an active youth focused cultural exchange programme between CSWGI and PNG. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) & RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, India, shared with The High Commissioner and other officials about the Queen’s Young Leaders and Associate Fellows of the RCS from PNG. The CSWGI would be sharing a program outlay of the future joint projects.

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H.E. Mr Amb Ernest Rwamucyo

meeting: Rwanda High Commission, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) met H.E. Amb Ernest Rwamucyo, High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda in India to discuss 'India-Rwanda relations and CHOGM-2020'. The meeting took place at the Rwanda High Commission, New Delhi. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) & RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, India, shared the workings and focus areas of the CSWGI & RCS at large. The High Commissioner highlighted the importance of the expansion of awareness about the Commonwealth. Both the High Commission and CSWGI agreed to collaborate on youth centric event focusing on CHOGM 2020 in near future.

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Commonwealth Cyber Security

conference: UN House, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) participated at the Commonwealth and South Asia Cyber Security Dialogue held at the UN House, New Delhi. The conference witnessed participants and speakers from diverse work areas ranging from key Government officials to Diplomats and High Commissioners to Security experts and activists. The day long program consisted of 5 Sessions with very interesting topics starting with Priorities for Commonwealth Cyber Cooperation where diplomats and government officials discussed the CHOGM 2018's Commonwealth Cyber Declaration. Chairing an important session on 'Safeguarding Children in Cyber Space' Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) & RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, India, observed the imminent need of stringent laws to curb cyber bullying and exploitation of the innocent children and the imperative encouragement of parental learning to ensure cyber safety for children. shared the workings and focus areas of the CSWGI & RCS at large. The High Commissioners highlighted the importance of the expansion of awareness about the cyber security across Commonwealth.

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INDIA - SRI LANKA

Commonwealth Youth Exchange Project (CYEP), New Delhi

Six (6) youth delegates representing the National Youth Services Council (NYSC) of Sri Lanka visited India and were hosted by The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) to participated in the first ever India-Sri Lanka Commonwealth Youth Exchange Project held at New Delhi from 08th to 13th September 2019. The India-Sri Lanka CYEP is an initiative of the CSWGI in collaboration with the NYSC of Sri Lanka. In India, this project is supported by Australasian Network Undertaking (ANU), an overseas education & migration consultancy based ib Jaipur. This project was the first step after a Agreement of Cooperation was signed between National Youth Services Council of Sri Lanka & The CSWGI to promote youth leadership and cross cultural learning amongst India & Sri Lanka. During the course of the project, arrangements were made by the CSWGI team for the visiting delegates for interactive sessions at various locations in and around New Delhi with various High Profile dignitaries ranging from academics to media to cultural learning. Some of the speakers whom the young delegates from Sri Lanka met include:

Prof John Varghese (Principal: St. Stephen's College),
Prof Chintamani Mahapatra (Pro-Vice Chancellor: JNU),
Mr Sandeep Marwah (Founder: Noida Film City, Owner: Marwah Studios),
H.E. Mr Austin Fernando (High Commissioner: Sri Lanka),
H.E. Mr Akhilesh Mishra (Director General: Indian Council of Cultural Relations),
Mr Anubhav Somra (Founder: Australasian Network Undertaking, Jaipur).

The Sri Lanka High Commission hosted a round-table discussion highlighting the relations of the two countries. The Project culminated with a cultural visit of the delegates to Pink City: Jaipur where the delegates interacted with team and staff of Australasian Network Undertaking to know more about overseas education. The NYSC of Sri Lanka sponsored the Air-tickets and The CSWGI took care of Stay and Local transport. The reciprocal visit of a CSWGI youth delegation to Sri Lanka is planned Next Year 2020.

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UN COP 14

meeting: Mr Amiya Parapan Chakra Borty, New Delhi

On the sidelines of the 14th Conference of Parties (COP) United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought (UNCCD), Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) & RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, India, met the Royal Commonwealth Society Associate Fellow from Bangladesh Mr Amiya Prapan Chakra Borty (Arka), Executive Director & General Secretary at Dhrubotara Youth Development Foundation (DYDF). The meeting was to discuss and explore the possibilities of Collaboration between CSWGI & DYDF for future activities, events & projects. Mr Hari Om Dahiya congratulated Mr Arka for his selection to the post of executive member of the council of National Youth Development Institute, Government of Bangladesh. Mr Arka extended an invite to members & officials of the CSWGI to visit Dhaka Bangladesh to participate in meetings with the members of DYDF, which was warmly accepted and the dates for the visit would be announced by mutual consensus.

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H.E. Mr Juan Angulo Monsalve

meeting: Embassy of Chile, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) met H.E. Mr Juan Angulo Monsalve, Ambassador of Chile & Mr Cristián Agustín Davis Acosta (Political and Economic Affairs) at the Embassy of Chile in New Delhi to discuss 'India-Chile Relations'. It was first meeting and engagement of the CSWGI with a non-Commonwealth country from South America. The participants were surprised to know a fact shared by the Ambassador that Chile was the first & only country from South America, which sent representation at the Indian Independence Ceremony in 1947, when India attained independence. The Ambassador emphasised that the possible area of focus for The CSWGI towards Chile could be Youth & Cultural Activities. The meeting also focused on knowing about the status & aspects of youth and women empowerment in Chile and explored the state policies for both. Possibilities of long term plans of engagement of youth from both India and Chile were discussed and will be further explored further in future.

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GUYANA Independence Day

reception: Guyana High Commission, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) participated in reception to celebrate 53rd Independence Day of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana hosted by H.E. Dr David Goldwin Pollard, the High Commissioner of Guyana in New Delhi. The High Commissioner shared the support for the upcoming Commonwealth Youth Project engaging youth from India and Guyana, to take place in Georgetown, which is initiated by the CSWGI with assistance of Guyana High Commission. The High Commissioners and diplomats of various High Commissions and Embassies along with representatives from Ministry of External Affairs were in attendance.

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QCEC Campaign

campaign: Rajkamal International School, Mehara

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised a special campaign to enhance the submission entries of the Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC) in India. The CSWGI collaborated with Rajkamal International School to raise awareness amongst students and encourage them to participate in the world's Oldest running Essay Competition.

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ANZAC Day Dawn Service

Australia & New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi

Members and officials of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) participated in ANZAC Day Dawn service hosted jointly by H.E. Ms Joanna Kempkers, High Commissioner of New Zealand & H.E. Ms Harinder Sidhu the High Commissioner of Australia in New Delhi. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman (CSWGI) & RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, India, laid a wreath and floral tributes at the Dawn Service held to commemorate the anniversary of Anzac Day at 05:30 am at the Commonwealth War Graves, Delhi War Cemetery. Rev. Vishal R. Paul officiated. Last Post and Reveille was played by Indian Army buglers. The High Commissioners and diplomats of Australia, New Zealand, UK, Canada, USA, Turkey, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji along with representatives from Indian Army, Navy and Air Force were in attendance. It was followed by the traditional gunfire breakfast at the residence of New Zealand High Commissioner, H.E. Ms Joanna Kempkers. The ANZAC Day is an annual event to remember Australian and New Zealand service personnel who sacrificed their lives in the Great War. This day marks the 104th anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian & New Zealand forces during World War I.

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Special Prayer Service

in Solidarity with Sri Lanka Easter Attacks

Officials and members of The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised a Special Prayer Service to mark solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka over the recent horrendous and cowardly attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka with such a devastating magnitude. The Prayer service was organised at Rajkamal International School (RKIS), Mehara (Rajasthan). Co-Founder of RKIS Mr Shiv Kumar observed that we keep all the citizens in our prayers and knowing Sri Lanka, the wonder of Asia, it will bounce back in no time – the Sri Lankan people are strong and we are sure the Nation will be back on feet soon. Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman CSWGI; RCS Regional Youth Coordinator, also read the Letter of Solidarity sent to H.E. Mr Austin Fernando, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India. Staff and management of the school were also in attendance.

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Autism Awareness

workshop: "Autism - Breaking the Myths", New Delhi

The Commonwealth Students’ Welfare Group of India (CSWGI) organised a workshop “Autism: Breaking the Myths” to observe and raise awareness about Autism and Disability on World Autism Awareness Day. The workshop was organised in Collaboration with Centre for Socio-Economic and Political Research (CSEPR), New Delhi. Youth and participants were encouraged to share real life experiences along with a talk by a Psychological Counsellor. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Hari Om Dahiya, President & Youth Chairman CSWGI; RCS Regional Youth Co-ordinator, observed the importance of awareness campaigns and inclusive youth development. He also shared the details of the launch of Commonwealth Children and Youth Disability Network in London. Dr Vivek Bhardwaj, co-founder, CSEPR, announced a social research survey jointly in collaboration with the CSWGI in coming months to target school students and youth suffering from autism and also to study the disability awareness mechanisms available in various schools of Haryana state in India.

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