PD HOLDS FOCUS GROUP, TOEFL INFORMATION SESSION

UNCLAS DJIBOUTI 000342

SIPDIS

State for AF, AF/E, AF/PD

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL KPAO PGOV SCUL DJ
SUBJECT: PD HOLDS FOCUS GROUP, TOEFL INFORMATION SESSION


1. (U) PD took advantage of the presence of Staffdel Chaka the week of
March 27 to hold a focus group with about 50 local English students and
teachers. Members of the Staffdel listened to the concerns and needs of
the group, while sharing ideas and information about the U.S. The
program was well-received by both the populace, who felt the highest
levels of the U.S. government were interested in what they had to say,
and the delegation, who felt they gained valuable insight into
Djiboutian culture and the Department's public diplomacy effort in
Djibouti. Staffdel Chaka, comprised of Malik Chaka and Dr. Pearl-Alice
Marsh, expressed special interest in Post's focus on the teaching
community as a bridge to getting its message to the student community.


2. (U) In addition, Post held a TOEFL information session on April 4.
Post recognizes that the paper test given in Djibouti is an unfamiliar
format to most locals and included in its session not only information
on how to register, but also directions on how to fill out the bubble
sheet and how to effectively use time on such a test. Post found that
many of the questions at the session revolved around how to apply for
U.S. study. As a result, Post is planning another "How to Study
in the United States" information session, similar to the one held last
November.


3. (U) A delegation which included the Minister of Health, Obock
District Commissioner, USAID Senior Health Advisor and the USAID Health
Sector Reform Project Team headed by the Chief of Party, arrived in
Ala_i Dadda' and M_eho respectively for ribbon cutting ceremonies.
Large crowds were on hand both days, and included most of the community
and a military detachment from Obock city. The Djiboutian media covered
both events.


4. (U) Post hosted Joan McKniff from Africa Regional Services, Paris,
this week. Her visit included trips to the local University, the Englis
Teacher's Association of Djibouti, private bookstores and the French
Cultural Center. The trip was a productive means of promoting ARS, whil
also sharing ideas with local interlocutors. Post thanks ARS for its
assistance.


5. (U) Post continued its visits to private night English schools to
establish conversation groups. There are now three active groups with
American participants. Two more are scheduled to be vetted next week.
RAGSDALE