Middle East and North African Students Train To Become Active Leaders

Today the U.S. Department of State’s Office of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) graduated over 100 students from across the Middle East and North Africa who completed training in civil society, democratic participation, and leadership as part of the MEPI 2008 Student Leaders Program. The program commenced in Washington, D.C. on June 31, attracting some of the most highly motivated and academically outstanding students from throughout the MENA region.

Since 2003, the MEPI Student Leaders program has served as a key instrument of the State Department to support young leaders in the Middle East and North Africa to become the influential push for reform, building their own vibrant and prosperous societies. Designed as an intensive six-week program for students from the Middle East and North Africa to develop leadership skills and expand their understanding of American civil society as well as the democratic process, the students are encouraged to determine how both may be applied in their home communities.

During their time in the U.S., participants have the opportunity to meet their American peers, engage in local community and service activities, and learn about the United States. The program includes both an academic program conducted by scholars and other professionals with expertise in leadership and U.S. studies, as well as a study tour to other regions of the country. Each component plays a critical role in advancing the participants from students to civic leaders.

The participating universities are Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., the University of Delaware, Montana State University, Roger Williams University in Rhode Island, Benedictine University in Illinois, and Wayne State University in Michigan.

More information about the MEPI Student Leaders can be found on the websites of United States Embassies in countries of the Middle East and North Africa as well as at www.mepi.state.gov .

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