26 Pakistani High School Students Travel To The U.S. For A Two-Week Exchange Program

August 4, 2010

Islamabad - U.S. Ambassador Ann W. Patterson today honored 26 Pakistani high school students and four teachers selected to go to Washington, DC, for a two-week science and technology exchange program.  The students, including 7 girls and 19 boys, are making the trip as part of the Links to Learning (ED-Links) program, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

"Just as we are working closely with the Government of Pakistan to support rescue and relief efforts for those affected by the terrible flooding, we are also working in partnership with Pakistan to improve the quality of education for the next generation of Pakistan's leaders," Ambassador Patterson told the students.  "We believe that student and teacher exchanges can brighten futures and contribute to mutual understanding."

Each year, ED-Links sends selected Pakistani students and teachers to the U.S. for short-term training and cultural exchange programs.  ED-Links program aims to develop students' teamwork, leadership skills and cultural understanding.

The U.S. Government is working closely with Pakistan's Ministry of Education to improve the quality of public education in middle and secondary schools.