State Department Offers Grants for U.S./Afghanistan Professional Partnership Program

In his December 1, 2009, speech in West Point, New York, U.S. President Obama said that a new diplomatic initiative in Afghanistan would be part of the U.S. strategy to bring peace and stability in the Afghanistan/Pakistan region. As part of this initiative, the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State is seeking proposals for a new program, called "The U.S./Afghanistan Professional Partnership Program." This program will bring young professionals from the two countries together to develop cross cultural relationships and develop professional skills that will positively impact people's lives and will result in stronger ties between the two nations. Applications are due by May 21, 2010.  The ECA expects to award one grant of $1.2 million for this project. For more information click here (PDF).