By Lameese Madi
Rabat – Approximately 40 Moroccan students shared a final iftar dinner with US Embassy staff at Dar America in Casablanca, before beginning their summer exchange programs in the US.
On June 8th, Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie Miley and U.S. Consul General Jennifer Rasamimanana invited Moroccan high school and university students to share a meal together. The students have been selected to travel to the United States this summer through highly competitive youth exchange programs.
The exchange programs include Middle East Partnership Institute (MEPI) Student Leaders, Study of the U.S. Institute (SUSI) for Student Leaders on Women’s Leadership, SUSI for Student Leaders on Social Entrepreneurship, the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD), TechGirls, Between the Lines, and Space Camp programs.
These students must meet criteria such as “academic excellence, cross-cultural interest, personal leadership ability as well as a commitment to Morocco to share their new skills and expertise with others” according to the U.S. embassy and consulate website.
Cross-cultural exchange allows students to improve their English skills and create connections all over America and around the world.
Sharing a traditional Moroccan iftar with the embassy at Dar America was part of the pre-departure orientation for these students who will study in America this summer.
“It’s always wonderful to meet young Moroccan leaders who are seeking new experiences and opportunities. I am proud that the U.S. Embassy is unlocking potential by supporting 40 young Moroccans to go to the U.S. because of their leadership skills and commitment to giving back in their communities when they return,” Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie Miley said during the iftar.
Morocco has the oldest relationship with America as Morocco was the first country to recognize America as a nation state following its declaration of independence and their relations have only prospered and continued on until today.
