Cultural and Educational Exchange Programs

The Cultural Section promotes mutual understanding, respect for cultural diversity and broadens dialogue between Americans and their Cameroonian counterparts through thematic, educational and cultural exchange programs organized in the United States and Cameroon.  The programs listed below are tools which the Public Diplomacy (PD) Section utilizes to foster  mutual exchange of knowledge on issues of common concern in the United States and Cameroon.

The Fulbright Program was established in 1946.  Each year 7 - 10 Cameroonians receive grants averaging from $25,000 - $ 35,000 to earn graduate degrees and conduct research or teach in U.S. institutions.  American scholars and students are also awarded grants to conduct research or teach in Cameroon. Concurrently, about 5-8 American scholars and students receive grants to study, research, or lecture in Cameroon.

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program provides 10 months of non-degree academic study in the U. S. for mid-level professionals.  About 1-3 Cameroonians travel to the U.S. under the Humphrey Program with grants averaging $35,000.

The Community College Initiative Program provides participants with opportunities for non-degree study and professional development in U.S. community colleges.  Students receive 9 months academic instruction in fields including agriculture, applied engineering, business management and administration, health, IT, media and tourism and hospitality.

The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP):  This program brings an average of 15 - 20 International Visitors to the U.S. yearly.  Many current members of parliament, leading media editors, and cabinet level ministers of Cameroon have benefitted from the IVLP. 

The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program was established in October, 2002 to provide scholarships for high school students (15 - 17 years) from participating countries to spend up to one academic year in the U.S.  Students live with host families, attend high school engage in activities to learn about American society and values, and receive leadership training.  In 2007, Yes Abroad was established to provide a similar experience for U.S. students (15-19) in selected YES countries.