HRD Antwerp has introduced its internationally recognised diamond, gemmology and jewellery education programmes in India, strengthening access to structured, globally aligned professional training for the domestic industry. The inauguration in Mumbai witnessed the presence of Frank Geerkens, Consul General of Belgium in Mumbai, and Mehul N. Shah, Vice President, Bharat Diamond Bourse.

The launch and inauguration took place during the first official visit to India of Paul De Wachter, CEO, HRD Antwerp. He was joined by Stanley De Belie, COO, and Philip Baeten, CFO. Representing HRD Antwerp’s India leadership team at the event were Ramakant Mitkar, MD; Chandrakant Narkar, Sales Director; and Anand Gusani, Global Education Manager, who will lead the growth and delivery of HRD Antwerp’s education initiatives in the country.

The programmes will be conducted at HRD Antwerp’s Mumbai education facility, allowing students, retailers, entrepreneurs and professionals to access European-standard education locally.

The curriculum covers diamond grading and identification, gemmology, gemstone treatments, small diamond expertise, lab-grown diamonds and jewellery market knowledge, combining scientific fundamentals with hands-on learning.