|
The U.S. Department of State, in partnership with the Department of Education, will lead the third annual observance of International Education Week, November 18-22, 2002. The worldwide celebration offers a unique opportunity to reach out to young people in every nation, to develop a broader understanding of world cultures and languages, and to reiterate the conviction that enduring friendships and partnerships created through international education and exchange are important for a secure future for all countries.
"People-to- people diplomacy, created through international education and exchanges, is critical to our national interests. Americans who study abroad expand their global perspective and become more internationally engaged. Foreign students and individuals who participate in citizen exchanges return home with a greater knowledge of our democratic institutions, and America's enduring values," said Secretary of State Colin Powell in his International Education Week statement.
Included among the many programs being planned to foster global understanding are symposiums, conferences, panel discussions, workshops and Sister City linkages. Schools and civic organizations are extending invitations to Foreign Service officers, Peace Corps volunteers, Fulbright and other exchange program alumni, and International Visitors to share their exchange program experiences. Overseas, embassies and educational advising centers are coordinating a wide range of scholarly and social events.
"As Americans begin to reevaluate our assumptions about the impact of international relations on our daily lives, we realize that the task of diplomacy belongs not only to governments, but to individuals as well. Each of us is an ambassador when we interact with our global neighbors. Thus, giving our children a solid education, which includes the skills they will need to succeed in a global context, is essential," said Secretary of Education Rod Paige.
Individuals and organizations engaged in international education and exchange are encouraged to organize events, including schools, colleges, and universities, international organizations, embassies, businesses and associations, international program alumni, and the exchange network of citizen diplomats and constituencies.
For more information on International Education Week 2002, visit
http://exchanges.state.gov/iew/. The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is asking participants to report a brief summary of planned activities by e-mail to feedback@pd.state.gov so that they may be available to the public.
|
|
|
|