Two major industry organisations, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) India and Gem and Jewellery Export Council (GJEPC) have signed a “Memo of Understanding” (MoU) on March 25, with the intent to promote greater gemological education throughout India, and develop and retain talent in the industry. Nirupa Bhatt, GIA Managing Director, India and Middle East explains, “The purpose of this agreement is to build a structure upon which our two organisations can significantly raise gemological education standards in India, and therefore strengthen the industry here. GIA India’s accredited diploma programmes are recognised internationally as hallmark professional credentials.” %% Vasant Mehta, Chairman of the GJEPC, emphasised the need for such a tie-up saying, "India has established itself in a leadership position in the global gem and jewellery industry with world class manufacturing facilities. GIA’s presence in India in education and grading services has offered opportunities to enhance our skill base. The MOU between GIA India and GJEPC to partner on the education front will allow students and professionals across India to take advantage of several courses offered at different institutes run and managed by GJEPC. My colleagues and I are convinced that we will be able to expand our talent pool which will eventually help us expand the market." %% As per the agreement, GIA India will work with the GJEPC to develop courses that establish and meet heightened requirements for the Indian gem and jewellery industry. GIA India will introduce and conduct gemology courses at all GJEPC institutes, using well-trained faculty able to speak English, Hindi and Gujarati languages. GIA India will also make its international course curriculum available to all GJEPC institutes and provide the appropriate course materials. In addition, GIA will admit GJEPC graduates to GIA for higher studies. %% In its sphere of responsibilities, GJEPC will promote the programmes, obtain necessary clearances and permissions to conduct the courses whenever required, and extend administrative support for enrollment and operations. Both GIA India and GJEPC will take responsibility for the progressive relevance and quality of the programmes and take all necessary steps to implement them.