Close to 7,000 Colombian students will leave their native country to advance their education and post graduate careers in the United States, reported local media.
The exchange is part of a larger promotion that began in March 2011 to, “increase the number of U.S. students studying in Latin America to 100,000, and the number of Latin American students studying in the United States to 100,000,” stated President Barack Obama.
The initiative focuses on “increasing student exchanges in the Western Hemisphere to gain a greater understanding among the people of the Americas and deepen our shared dedication to democracy, the rule of law, and tolerance,” added Obama.
An education expert, Julio Acero, from the U.S. Embasy in Bogota commented to Colombia’s Caracol Radio about the program funding saying, “The participating students will be offerred oportunities for scholarships of 5, 10, or 20 percent, but will not cover a full 100 percent of the costs.” Athletes will also have opportunities to earn scholarships.
Foreign governments and the private sector will offer contributions and scholarship opportunities in order to assist the perspective exchange students. The Fullbright program, sponsored by the U.S. embassy with support form the Colombian government will work to offer grants as well.
More: Colombia ups funding for Fullbright program
On April 15, the U.S. embassy in Bogota will hold a study fair at the Radison Hotel where perspective students can learn about the study opportunities available in the United States and how to apply for a visa.
Sources
- Embajada de EEUU promueve estudio para colombianos en el pais norteamericano (Caracol Radio)
- 100k in the Americas (U.S. Embassy Bogota)
- About the program (100,000 Strong in the Americas.org)
- Fullbright Program (U.S. Embassy Bogota)
