Embassy of the United States Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Fulbright and Humphrey information session in Bobo

Bobo Dioulasso-Burkina Faso.  On Wednesday November 9, a team from the American Center held an information session at the Chamber of Commerce in Bobo DIoulasso on the Fulbright and Humphrey programs. Each year these two programs are open for eligible candidates and fields.  92 people attended the information session. The audience was mainly students and some professionals who were interested in the Humphrey program.  Assistant Public Affairs Officer, Chad Morris started the session by explaining the historical context that led to the establishment of the Fulbright program. The different Fulbright programs namely the Junior Staff Development (JSDP), the Francophone/Lusophone Junior Staff Development Program (FLJSDP), and the Fulbright African Research Scholars (ARSP) were explained to the audience. Programs requirements, goals, and expectations once they are completed were developed throughout the presentation. During the Q/A session, questions revolved around the application process, the possibility for professionals to participate, the different requirements (mainly the English requirement) and a request for American Language Center in Bobo. This was a fitted opportunity to promote the American Corner in Bobo which has resources for anyone interested in learning English. The American Corner Director, Moussa Kafando used the opportunity to inform the audience about the corner, the resources they have and most importantly their physical location (since most people didn’t seem to know where the center is located). The next morning, Thursday November 10, the American Center team met with some alumni who leave and work in Bobo Dioulasso and their mentees (who are considering applying for the different programs).