After a successful summer camp last year, the US Embassy in Addis Ababa has announced its renewed support of the Youth Solidarity and English Language (YSEL) program in Ethiopia. For this year's camp, 44 individuals were competitively selected from each of Ethiopia's 11 diverse regions. The group will convene in Debre Zeyit this August to strengthen their English language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening); promote solidarity and understanding among youth from the diverse regions of Ethiopia; develop respect and mutual understanding between genders; and learn about community service and volunteerism.
As in year's past, the Peace Corps will team up with American Councils and provide education volunteers to teach at the camp. Not only is this a wonderful opportunity for participants to have native-English teachers, but it is also a chance for volunteers with important teacher training to use their skills at the site. Four YSEL alumni will also join as camp counselors to provide peer support and serve as positive role models.
American Councils has created a student-centered curriculum, which covers language development, reading, essay writing, and public speaking. Besides the academic component, students will learn about urban gardening, leadership, conflict transformation, and project design management. Weekend trips will help teach students about other areas of interest such as agriculture, business and entrepreneurship, and Ethiopian history and culture.
The open and competitive application process was made possible with assistance from the US Embassy, Peace Corps, ACCESS programs, YSEL-Ethiopia alumni, and other local counterparts.
Click here for more information about YSEL-Ethiopia or to get the latest news from camp.