During Year Abroad, Pakistani Students Will Exchange Ideas With American Young People

Posted by Alberto Rodriguez / April 18, 2011

Alberto Rodriguez serves as Spokesperson at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Over 35 students and their parents gathered April 17, 2011, at the National Library to kick off their pre-departure orientation for the U.S. government funded 2010-11 Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program. This is the ninth group of YES students from Pakistan to go to the United States. This orientation program, which is organized by the iEARN Society for International Education, plays a key role in preparing students with the required skills, attitude, and knowledge to spend a successful year in the United States.

"I am excited to see these outstanding students go to the United States," said Cultural Attache Brent Beemer. "They will be studying in U.S. schools, living with American families, and becoming part of their local communities. They will have the opportunity to show everyday Americans the true face of Pakistan. These KL-YES students will be fantastic ambassadors for Pakistan."

The YES program encourages the exchange of ideas, values, and experiences among young people and leads to greater cultural awareness and appreciation, exposing young scholars to the principles of democracy, free markets, civil society, and community service.

This group is part of a total of 108 students participating in the YES program from Pakistan. These students come from 28 different cities and comprise the largest single group from any of the over 40 participating countries. More information about all U.S.-funded exchange programs can be accessed on the Embassy website.

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