Bridging Continents Through Education and Diplomacy: Prof. Anil Sooklal’s Dynamic Role in South Africa–India Relations
By Kirtan Bhana
22 April 2025
In a significant nod to the power of diplomacy in shaping global education and development, Professor Anil Sooklal, South Africa’s High Commissioner to India was honoured with the Diplomatic Excellence in Education and Development Award by the Confederation of Indian Universities. The accolade, jointly presented by premier institutions such as the World Academy of Higher Education and Development and the International Association Educators for World Peace, is reserved for diplomats whose contributions go beyond the ordinary—those who champion peace, sustainability, and cross-continental cooperation in meaningful and lasting ways.
For Prof. Sooklal, a seasoned diplomat with deep roots in global affairs, the honour was a humbling moment, particularly given the short six months he has been stationed in New Delhi. “I am deeply privileged and pleasantly surprised to be felicitated so soon into my posting here,” he reflected. “The award is truly a recognition of the tireless effort I’ve committed to deepening the strategic and cultural ties between South Africa and India.”
A Diplomatic Mission Energized by Education and Engagement
Since his arrival, Prof. Sooklal has embarked on a whirlwind of activity that has elevated the visibility of South Africa across India’s academic, economic, and political landscapes. In just half a year, he has delivered over 50 addresses at a wide range of forums—lectures, roundtables, university seminars, and high-level conferences—reaching audiences in eight Indian states. These interactions have not been limited to the national capital but extended to state governments, city officials, and civil society groups, encompassing a broad swath of India’s policy and public spheres.
At premier academic institutions like Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi, the University of Calcutta, Pune’s Asia Economic Dialogue, and Jindal Global University—where he has now been invited to serve as a visiting professor—Prof. Sooklal has consistently advocated for greater South-South academic and technological collaboration.
“The academic engagements are particularly close to my heart,” he said. “They are where future leaders are being shaped. South Africa and India share a legacy of solidarity, and education is a powerful vehicle to carry that legacy forward.”
Facilitating Trade, Technology, and Tourism
Beyond the lecture halls and policy panels, Prof. Sooklal has been a key conduit for economic diplomacy. His facilitation has already yielded tangible outcomes: several Indian companies have launched operations in South Africa, especially in the booming ICT sector. Simultaneously, the High Commission is helping South African firms explore investment opportunities in India, ensuring a reciprocal flow of business and innovation.
In one example, delegations from South Africa’s Ministry of Electricity and Eskom visited India to study its pioneering work with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), while another delegation from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies examined India’s transformative Digital Public Infrastructure—an area where India has used technology to reduce poverty and bridge inequality.
On the tourism front, Prof. Sooklal has worked closely with South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, who led a high-impact roadshow in India in late 2024. With India emerging as one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets, there is mutual interest in increasing tourist flows in both directions, enhancing people-to-people connectivity and economic growth.
As the old colonial imperial order stagnates due to complacency emerging countries like India and South Africa are poised to emerge strongly. The current target of US$ 20 billion in trade between the two countries is in sight as India’s growth pace of around 6,5 , highest among its peers, will play a key factor.
Celebrating Shared Histories and Future Aspirations
Prof. Sooklal’s diplomatic style is not merely transactional—it is deeply informed by the shared histories of India and South Africa. As both nations continue to honour the legacy of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, the High Commissioner has championed initiatives that emphasize unity, justice, and multilateralism in shaping a more inclusive global order.
With Freedom Day around the corner, the South African High Commission and Consulate General in Mumbai will jointly host a commemorative event at the Taj Colaba Hotel, symbolizing the enduring bond between two countries born out of the struggle for freedom and equality.
Looking forward, Prof. Sooklal is clear-eyed about the mission ahead: “South Africa and India must continue to work hand-in-hand with like-minded partners to shape an evolving multipolar world that is inclusive, fair, and just.”
A Legacy in the Making
The Diplomatic Excellence in Education and Development Award is more than a personal milestone for Prof. Sooklal—it is a reflection of the growing depth and diversity of the South Africa–India partnership. Whether advancing education, facilitating trade and technology exchange, or cultivating cultural diplomacy, the High Commissioner’s efforts have set a high bar for what can be achieved through purposeful and proactive diplomacy.
In an era when global relations are often tested by conflict and competition, Prof. Sooklal offers a powerful reminder that diplomacy—grounded in dialogue, development, and dignity—remains one of the most effective tools for building bridges across borders.