This article covers the training and scholarships India offers Côte d'Ivoire, Ivorian students and medical travellers in India, Indian films, yoga and Hindi classes in Abidjan, and the Indian community in Côte d'Ivoire. It is based on the MEA bilateral brief of April 2026 and describes people-to-people links as that brief records them.

Training and scholarships

According to the MEA brief of April 2026, the Indian Mission has developed strong people-to-people linkages through various Government of India initiatives. Each year, over 180 training slots are offered to Côte d'Ivoire under the ITEC Programme. In addition, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) provides around 15 scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD studies in India.

Many Ivorians have also benefited from training under the IAFS mechanism, the CV Raman Fellowship, and distance learning programmes of the PAN African e-Network Project.

Ivorian students in India

The brief states that India has emerged as a preferred destination for higher education, particularly in ICT and in commerce and management, attracting over 200 Ivorian students annually.

Medical travel

The brief states that India has also become a preferred destination for medical tourism among Ivorians, offering healthcare services including surgeries, diagnostics and wellness therapies. It describes these services as affordable and of high quality.

Indian films and television

According to the brief, Indian television serials and movies, dubbed in French, have been popular in Côte d'Ivoire since the 1950s. At present, Indian films are screened fortnightly in a rented cinema hall in Abidjan, mainly attended by members of the Indian diaspora.

Yoga and Hindi

The brief states that Yoga is gaining popularity among Ivorians. With ICCR support, the Indian Mission has appointed a yoga teacher who conducts regular daily classes at the Embassy premises, attended by local residents and the Indian community.

Yoga classes are also organised at various locations across Abidjan, including the ECEME Ivorian School, where the Mission has also introduced beginner-level Hindi classes. The Mission is in touch with local universities about introducing yoga into their curriculum.

The Indian community in Côte d'Ivoire

As of the brief, there are around 6,000 Indian nationals residing in Côte d'Ivoire. Most are engaged in trading and general merchandise businesses, while some work in mining and manufacturing. A number of Indians also work with the African Development Bank.

ISKCON, Geeta Ashram and Art of Living have a presence in Abidjan, and the Indian community also frequents a temple in the city. There are a few Indian restaurants in Abidjan, and community members regularly organise gatherings to celebrate major Indian festivals.