Cameroon Immersion: Youth, Development and the Millennium Development Goals
June 10-26, 2007
Cameroon has largely existed under the radar of the international community since achieving independence because it remains of the most peaceful and prosperous countries in the region. However, Cameroon also demonstrates many of the same challenges as its neighbors; every day its population faces complex issues such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, poor infrastructure, unemployment, and corruption. In September 2000, at the dawn of the 21st century, world leaders came together to establish a global commitment to achieving responsible, sustainable change. United Nations member states established the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), eight objectives including eradicating extreme poverty, improving maternal health, and fostering a global partnership for development, among others.
This summer fifteen university students from across the United States will have the unique opportunity to travel to Cameroon and explore the realities facing the country first-hand. They will meet with political, academic, and cultural experts in African development as they examine Cameroon's prospects for achieving the MDGs. They will also have the chance to travel throughout the country to obtain a unique and in-depth picture of contemporary Cameroon.
The trip is organized in collaboration with the Cameroon Youths and Students Forum for Peace (CAMYOSFOP), a group of young African leaders dedicated to educating youth, students, and the general public about human rights and conflict resolution. Through CAMYOSFOP, participants will have the incredibly unique opportunity to interact with delegates to the first African Youth Forum for Peace, a conference in Yaoundé that will mobilize youth leaders from across the continent as peace-builders. Additionally, participants will explore the many issues surrounding Cameroon's development by engaging with local communities in dialogue, cultural exchange, and direct service.
Check out the Student Global Ambassadors page for information about GYPA's other student trips to Africa.