Latest news with #Sooklal
IOL News
03-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Eskom engineers receiving training at India's leading power utility as part of MoU
Several Eskom engineers are currently being trained at National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd (NTPC) in India. Image: Supplied Several Eskom engineers are currently being trained at National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd (NTPC), India's leading power utility, as part of a landmark partnership to help address critical infrastructure and maintenance challenges. One of the major technical hurdles Eskom is addressing is the lack of fully functional flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) units, particularly at the Kusile Power Station. These systems are essential for reducing sulphur dioxide emissions and meeting South Africa's environmental regulations. The absence or malfunction of these units has contributed to the loss of more than 2000 MW of power capacity in addition to elevated health and environmental risks. Eskom's partnership with NTPC came from their efforts to look outside of the traditional technology partners. NTPC was identified to help provide training and support, with their partnership focusing on knowledge exchange, technical support, and joint efforts in equipment maintenance and emissions management. NTPC brings decades of experience in maintaining large-scale coal power stations and deploying desulphurisation technology. Their support is expected to bolster Eskom's capacity to improve plant performance, reduce outages, and enhance environmental compliance. On 10 June 2024, NTPC was awarded an assignment for site assessment and technical audit of Kusile's FGD systems, and a training programme for FGD system operators was recommended. High Commissioner of South Africa in India, Professor Anil Sooklal, highlighted that the partnership is more than just a technical collaboration, and is a bridge between two nations committed to sustainable energy solutions and mutual growth. 'On the energy front, like all our development challenges, we have similar challenges. As part of addressing these challenges, India is an important partner for us as they also have faced severe energy challenges in past, and they've become electricity self-sufficient more recently.' Several Eskom engineers are currently being trained at National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd (NTPC) in India. Image: Supplied Sooklal said he believes this is one of the reasons why the country turns to India for the challenges we are undergoing, and sees if we could draw lessons from them. 'Also, we could get assistance in sharing technical experience and expertise. That is why Eskom has been having interaction with NTPC.' He added that, like South Africa, India is still highly dependent on fossil fuels for electricity generation, and there is a great similarity in the architecture of their power stations. The MoU partnership between NTPC and Eskom was initially signed by both companies on 28 November 2024 at Matla Urja Energy Conference, Johannesburg. It was agreed that four groups, each comprising eight Eskom professionals, would undergo structured training on FGD operation and maintenance at NTPC Vindhyachal Power Station and Power Management Institute (PMI), NOIDA, India. The training programme spans 52 weeks in total, with each batch receiving between 13 weeks of hands-on and classroom training. The first batch began training on 12 May 2025 at NTPC Vindhyachal, and the program is currently underway. During the conference in November, Eskom CEO Dan Marokane said: 'NTPC and Eskom are both state utilities with vast operational experience. There is much that we can learn from each other. 'Like South Africa, India has been running coal operations for many years, and I think if we come together, we can really make magic in terms of performance on both sides.' Sooklal said the significance of the partnership lies in on-the-job training. 'There are basically three dimensions to this MoU - the first is training and further capacitating our senior engineers through this cause. 'Secondly, one of the major challenges our power stations face when we have breakdown is availability of spare parts, and of course India has over the years developed an extensive ecosystem manufacturing these spare parts, so they will also be able now to provide South Africa immediately with the spares required,' Sooklal said. 'Thirdly, we're also looking at how we can cooperate and benefit mutually from each other's experience in our transition to green energy.' He said both countries' willingness to collaborate is underpinned by the strong bilateral relationship, 'and that is why we turn to a country like India to assist us in this area'.
IOL News
03-06-2025
- General
- IOL News
SA youth urged to embrace ancient India's 'mind and body' art ahead of International Day of Yoga
South Africa's High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, taking part in Yoga Day promotional event in Inanda, Durban on Sunday. The UN's annual International Day of Yoga is on Saturday, June 21 and will be celebrated under the theme of "Yoga for One Earth, One Health". Image: Supplied South Africa's newly-appointed High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, has called on all local young people and students of all racial backgrounds to embrace the art of yoga and consider studying in India. The former deputy director-general at the Department of International Relations and Cooperations and SA's BRICS Sherpa, was speaking as the chief guest of honour at the United Nations-declared International Day of Yoga's precursor event in Inanda, Durban, on Sunday, 1 June. He called on young people to begin practising yoga and knock on the doors of education institutions across India. Returning to his hometown from the Indian capital of New Delhi last week, Sooklal was honoured as the chief guest at the yoga celebration in the Durban township. The event was hosted by the Sivananda World Peace Foundation in anticipation of the 11th annual International Day of Yoga on 21 June. In recognition of his long-standing diplomatic service and his contribution to South Africa's democratic international relations, Sooklal was presented with the prestigious Sivananda Peace Award by the foundation's president, Ishwar Ramlutchman — also known as Prince Mabheka Zulu, the adopted son of the late King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu of the AmaZulu Royal Household. Addressing a diverse audience of elders and youth, Sooklal encouraged black youth and students and others from all communities across South Africa to embrace yoga and take advantage of higher education study opportunities in India. 'India is a world-class country with so much to offer, especially in education,' said Sooklal. 'I am encouraged to see students practising yoga in schools — it not only promotes serenity in the school environment but also sharpens the mind and improves concentration. Yoga is a valuable tool that can enhance students' academic performance and overall wellbeing.' He added that the Indian High Commissions and Consulates in Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town offered numerous bursaries and scholarships to South African students to study various disciplines, including arts, culture, and other academic fields, at institutions across India. Ahead of the official international Yoga Day celebrations, Sooklal called on the communities of South Africans to embrace yoga as a unifying and healing practice. Rooted in over 5,000 years of Indian spiritual tradition, the 'mind and body' holistic health and exercise art is now globally recognised as a powerful lifestyle practice for physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. 'I am delighted that yoga is being shared on such a large scale with our communities,' Sooklal said. 'Yoga is a source of inspiration that teaches us to remain calm during turbulent times. It promotes peace and social cohesion, echoing the theme of this year's celebrations: Yoga for One Earth, One Health.' Sooklal also participated in handing out food hampers to community members at the Inanda event, reinforcing the event's message of compassion and wellness.
IOL News
02-06-2025
- General
- IOL News
Professor Anil Sooklal honoured with a Sivananda Peace Award for his efforts to develop South Africa
THE Sivananda World Peace Foundation honoured Professor Anil Sooklal, South Africa's High Commissioner to India, with the Sivananda Peace Award in recognition of his contributions to development within South Africa. Image: File In a heartfelt ceremony held in Inanda on Sunday, the Sivananda World Peace Foundation bestowed the prestigious Sivananda Peace Award on Professor Anil Sooklal, South Africa's High Commissioner to India. This recognition comes as a tribute to his significant contributions to development within the country, particularly as International Yoga Day approaches on June 21. Sivananda World Peace Foundation President Ishwar Ramlutchman honoured South Africa's High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, with the Sivananda Peace Award on Sunday. Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ President of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation, Ishwar Ramlutchman, expressed deep admiration for Sooklal's quiet yet impactful work, stating, 'We know he has been doing great and silent work in the country for decades.' Reflecting on their first encounter in 2009 during a presidential delegation to India, Ramlutchman praised Sooklal's ability to forge productive partnerships, particularly with his Indian counterparts. 'That silent work that you've been continuously doing on behalf of our country, we say a big thank you,' Ramlutchman added. The Sivananda Peace Award has previously been granted to notable figures including His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Dr Nelson Mandela, and the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. In a gesture filled with honour, Ramlutchman stated, 'Today, we feel honoured to present it to you.' He highlighted the importance of recognising such individuals while they are still living, urging them to continue their contributions to the nation. In his acceptance speech, a humble Sooklal attributed the accolade not to himself, but to the collaborative work of his government role over the last 30 years. 'I'm extremely grateful that I'm being acknowledged for the work I do,' he said, emphasising that his position is not just a title, but a trust bestowed by the government to promote South Africa's interests abroad. As an ambassador for South Africa in India, Sooklal spoke passionately about his responsibilities to foster beneficial relationships that can lead to investments and job opportunities for South Africans. Currently, approximately 150 Indian companies operate in South Africa, with Vedanta Mining leading the charge by employing around 6,500 people in the Northern Cape. 'This is what we are constantly doing at the High Commission,' Sooklal explained, focused on drawing further Indian investments into South Africa's economy while simultaneously promoting skills development.
IOL News
02-06-2025
- General
- IOL News
Professor Anil Sooklal receives peace award for contribution to South Africa
Sivananda World Peace Foundation President Ishwar Ramlutchman honoured South Africa's High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, with the Sivananda Peace Award on Sunday. Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers The Sivananda World Peace Foundation honoured Professor Anil Sooklal, South Africa's High Commissioner to India, with the Sivananda Peace Award in recognition of his contributions to development within South Africa. Sivananda World Peace Foundation President Ishwar Ramlutchman made the gesture during a yoga event held by the foundation in Inanda on Sunday, ahead of International Yoga Day on June 21. Ramlutchman told Sooklal they wanted to pay special tribute to him because they know he has been doing great and silent work in the country for decades. 'I recall in 2009 when I accompanied the President to India on the President's delegation. We'd seen you, how you interact with your counterparts, Professor Sharma in India, forging partnerships,' Ramlutchman said. 'That silent work that you've been continuously doing on behalf of our country, we say a big thank you.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading He said that due to his commitment and quiet demeanour, Sooklal's contributions may be unfamiliar to many. 'Today, we want to bestow this Sivananda Peace Award to our Professor Anil Sooklal,' Ramlutchman said. 'The Sivananda Peace Award was also given to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in India, our Dr Nelson Mandela, our mother of the nation, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini, uMntwana wakwaPhindangene Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, and today, we feel honoured to present it to you. 'On behalf of the entire community of South Africa, we say a big thank you and keep going. And the Sivananda World Peace Foundation will always be proud of you.' Speaking on the sidelines, Ramlutchman described Sooklal as a silent worker and networker, and he was struck by his commitment towards building South Africa through development. He said the Sivananda World Peace Foundation always acknowledged stalwarts like Sooklal, because they have stood out in the community. Sivananda World Peace Foundation President Ishwar Ramlutchman, South Africa's High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, and KwaZulu-Natal International Business Association President Omi Singh are pictured with the Sivananda Peace Award. Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers 'It is apt that while they are living that we honour them and we say thank you to them for their contribution, and we urge them to continue. Ultimately, whatever these names I mentioned, they've contributed towards the success of our nation,' Ramlutchman said. A humbled Sooklal said the award was not about him. Sooklal said he has been in government for over 30 years, working in the Department of International Relations and had the privilege of representing South Africa internationally. He said the government gave him the opportunity and privilege to work with the international community for South Africa's benefit. 'I'm extremely grateful that I'm being acknowledged for the work I do. I'm the fortunate one to be given this opportunity to go out into the world and to promote South Africa and to strengthen our relations with countries of the world for the benefit of our people,' Sooklal said. 'Being an ambassador of South Africa and India is a privilege for me, and that comes with great responsibility. It's not about me. It's about the trust the government has placed in me to ensure that I bring benefits through this placement in New Delhi, to the people of South Africa. Bringing in more investments, getting greater job opportunities and skills development.' Sooklal said about 150 Indian companies were in South Africa, the largest being Vedanta, mining in the Northern Cape and employing about 6,500 people. 'This is what we are constantly doing at the High Commission. To get more and more Indian investments into our economy, to create jobs and also to help build skills,' Sooklal said. He said India has a program offering skills development to South Africans. They developed a skills centre in Tshwane and are building one in KwaZulu-Natal. They are providing the expertise and providing opportunities to skill South Africans.
IOL News
26-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Washington-based firm appoints Ajay Sooklal to lead Africa/South Asia division
Ajay Sooklal Image: Supplied In a significant move aimed at strengthening its foothold in Africa and South Asia, Global Political Solutions™ LLC (GPS), a Washington-based legal, lobbying, and business advisory firm, appointed Ajay Sooklal to head its Africa/South Asia division. Sooklal, whose younger brother is Professor Anil Sooklal, the High Commissioner of South Africa in India, has more than 40 years of legal and international business development experience. Aaron T Manaigo, Managing Partner of GPS, said: 'I have known Ajay Sooklal for nearly 25 years. We have successfully worked on several business and political projects together. We are delighted and honoured to have Ajay join us at GPS. He brings a world of talent and experience to our team.' Sooklal served as a legal advisor to Nelson Mandela and Jacob Zuma. He also advised the ANC and provided insights to various ministries, justice, public works, and tourism. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ With Sooklal at the helm of its Africa/South Asia division, GPS aims to leverage opportunities for engagement with private sector companies and government entities across the continent, utilising South Africa as the base for operations. 'There is no shortage of opportunities for business development, foreign direct investment, market entry, and other professional services needed to bring together in a more robust way the American/African consumer and production markets respectively… the time is now,' said Sooklal. The establishment of an official working presence in South Africa marks the first phase of GPS's expansion strategy. Future plans include setting up similar bases in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. 'Africa, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia have been our target markets for some time. With the current dismantling of USAID, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), etc, another key area we will focus on is assisting various governments navigate the ever-changing US foreign appropriations process on Capitol Hill,' Manaigo elaborated, indicating a shift in strategic focus amidst evolving geopolitical landscapes. THE POST
