Request for DVC Speaker on Distance Learning Opportunities

UNCLAS PARAMARIBO 000324 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OIIP KPAO NS SUBJECT: Request for DVC Speaker on Distance Learning Opportunities for International Students ¶1. (U) SUMMARY: Post seeks a speaker for a DVC on "Distance Learning Opportunities for International Students." In fiscal year 2009, Post made a concerted effort to increase its education and youth-related programming in order to expand its contact base with educators and outreach to Surinamese youth. This opportunity would serve as a continuation of these efforts. End Summary. ¶2. (U) PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Post requests a DVC Speaker on "Distance Learning Opportunities for International Students." There is a growing interest among Surinamers about distance learning opportunities in the United States. The DVC will educate potential students and educational advisors on appropriate programs and qualifications. ¶3. (U) TIME FRAME: We would like to schedule the "Distance Learning Opportunities for International Students" DVC during International Education Week, and suggest Friday, November 20 for the event. ¶4. (U) PROGRAM PURPOSE: The purpose of the DVC on "Distance Learning Opportunities for International Students" would be to provide information to students, educators, and government officials on distance learning, as it is one mechanism for Surinamers to take courses not yet available in Suriname. (Suriname has only one university in the country.) Post has compiled information on distance learning from Washington and other PD sources to support this proposed event. ¶5. (U) MSP STRATEGIC GOAL: Goal #1 Mutual U.S./Suriname appreciation and respect contributing to a more effective partnership. Goal #4 Evident U.S. contribution to Suriname's improved economic and social development. ¶6. (U) AUDIENCE: The audience for the DVC on distance learning would include interested students, teachers, representatives of the Ministry of Education, and other embassy contacts. The DVC facility can accommodate approximately 60 attendees. ¶7. (U) NAME OF DESIRED SPECIALISTS: Post requests Washington's assistance in identifying an appropriate speaker. ¶8. (U) LANGUAGE: English ¶9. (U) POST CONTACT INFORMATION: Erik Anderson, tel: (597) 472 900 extension 2208, fax: (597) 420 800, email: AndersonEM@state.gov; Judith Dijks, EducationUSA Advisor, tel: (597) 472-900 ext. 2267, fax: (597) 425 690, email: DijksJB@state.gov; Rachidie Frangie, Economic Assistant, tel. (597) 472-900 ext. 2241, fax (597) 425 690, email FrangieRF@state.gov. ¶10. (U) FUNDING SPECIFICS: Post would be willing to use I-Bucks in support of this program. NAY