Programs: Civic Education

Countries: Iraq

Thank you for your interest in the Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program for High School and Undergraduate Students. For more than half a century, the people of the United States have supported international educational and cultural exchange programs as an investment in global understanding and peace. Such exchange programs have a long track record of bringing future leaders from around the world to the United States to experience the U.S. educational system, enhance their knowledge and explore U.S. culture and values. These programs also give Americans invaluable experiences and insights from abroad. The Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program is designed to develop and strengthen the leadership potential of talented young and future leaders from Iraq, and America’s Development Foundation (ADF) is pleased to have the opportunity to extend this invitation to Iraq’s youth.

 

The 2009 IYLEP programs are sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad. Underlying the role of exchanges in U.S. foreign policy is the belief that mutual understanding is of vital importance in an increasingly interdependent world, and that person-to-person exchange and training is one of the most effective ways to promote mutual understanding and contribute to the promotion of democracy, economic prosperity, international cooperation, and peace and security around the world. This year, ADF is working with World Learning and Meridian International to implement the Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program for High School and Undergraduate Students. A second university program focused specifically on science & technology or public policy is being implemented by the Academy for Educational Development (AED). Students interested in this program specialty should contact that organization.:

Eligibility criteria for both programs include:

 Possession of a G series passport by April 1, 2009

 An excellent record of academic achievement

 Citizenship and current residency in Iraq (Applicants with dual U.S. citizenship will not be considered.)

 Proficiency in the English language.

University students must be in their first three years of undergraduate study at an Iraqi institution. High school students should be between 15 and 17 years of age and must have their parent’s or guardian’s permission to participate. Adult chaperones for the high school students should have experience working with youth as well as an engagement with civil society or charitable work. Please follow links below to download Application Forms to participate in the Program: