*reopens American Corner in Ibadan
By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Beth Leonard has disclosed that the US Government is committed to expanding its engagement, educational outreach, and empowerment of the citizens of Nigeria.
Ambassador Leonard who stated this at the opening of the reimagined American Corner in Ibadan, hinted that this would be done through the network of American Spaces in Nigeria.
She stressed that the revitalized American Corner will offer even more opportunities to residents of Ibadan and beyond to discover the United States as they prepare for their future.
Ambassador Leonard maintained that the American Corner will continue to serve as a venue for young people to develop their ideas, as well as their leadership and entrepreneurship skills through programs and workshops designed for them, often led by United States government exchange alumni.
“To the emerging leaders, this Corner is designed to help you gain skills and broaden your contact with Americans. Please take advantage of all that this space has to offer,” she said.
She added that, “Working with the Initiative for Information Arts and Culture Development in Nigeria, which hosts the American Corner, the U.S. Consulate has refreshed and reconfigured the center to better serve local communities in Oyo State.
“The American Corner features a state-of-the-art digital conferencing facility, modern furniture, internet connectivity, a large open space for events, a seminar room, and a secretariat for the Oyo State Chapter of the U.S. Government Exchange Alumni Association.
“The EducationUSA Advising Center hosted at the American Corner will continue to offer accurate, unbiased, and comprehensive information about educational institutions in the United States, as well as guidance to prospective students on how best to access those opportunities.
“In addition, staff at the American Corner will host specific programs to highlight aspects of American culture, through movie screenings, book discussion clubs, digital video conferences, speaker events on a wide range of topics as well as STEM learning activities such as robotics and drone technology.
“Visitors to the American Corner typically include students, teachers, entrepreneurs, academics, journalists, civic organizations, government officials, and community leaders, in addition to many others. All are welcome.”
The ceremony was attended by Oyo State Government officials, U.S. Government exchange alumni, American Fulbright scholars, teachers and students.
