US Fullbright Program builds connections between US, Nigeria
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Up to 1,200 Nigerians have benefitted from the United States Fulbright program which offers participants opportunities to build connections between the two countries and also helps address challenges in communities across Nigeria.
US Consul General Claire Pierangelo made the point in Lagos when she hosted a networking event for US and Nigerian Fulbright scholars at the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the scheme.
She highlighted Fulbright Program’s contributions to Nigeria and previewed “the bright future” of the American government’s flagship educational and cultural exchange program.
Washington reiterated its commitment to creating educational and cultural exchange opportunities that promote dialogue and mutual understanding between the people of Nigeria and the US.
And the US Mission organised a series of events to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Fullbright Program.
The events hosted at the Abeokuta American Space included a youth dialogue on employment, education, and leadership.
Doctoral candidates from universities in Ogun participated in an academic writing workshop and a career mentoring session.
Other activities focused on environmental conservation, cultural diplomacy, and alumni engagement.
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Collaboration of international scholars
Pierangelo stressed at the event in Lagos that Fulbright Program participants have expanded and strengthened the diversity of their educational institutions and have become members of an international community of scholars that collaborate on projects and research.
“U.S. government exchange programs benefit both our nations and peoples, boosting intellectual and cross-cultural capital. They also become catalysts for professional networks that help address global challenges,” she said.
She encouraged members of the alumni association to continue to give back to their communities through robust activities which she said have strengthened US-Nigeria bilateral relationships.
“I encourage you to advocate for and develop good policies and push for their implementation across Nigerian institutions in the area of education, youth empowerment, prevention of sexual harassment and substance abuse.”
Fulbright Alumni Association in Nigeria President Adele Garkida applauded the US Mission for its support and commitment to providing educational and cultural exchange opportunities for university faculty.
“We will continue to focus on mentoring prospective scholars and increase the number of awardees that will give back to society,” he added.
About Fullbright Program
The Fulbright Program was established by the US Congress in 1946 under legislation introduced by then-Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas.
It is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by Washington to give participants the opportunity to conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared global challenges.
There have been over 1,200 Fulbright scholars in Nigeria since 1960.
Many currently occupy leadership positions in government as well as public, private and international institutions.