The U.S. Embassy in Cameroon is calling for applications for the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Secondary Educators, a fully funded educational exchange program designed to enhance the professional development of secondary school teachers and educational professionals. This five-week program, scheduled between late May and early June 2026, provides an immersive experience in U.S. history, society, institutions, and culture, equipping participants with the tools to enrich their teaching and educational programs upon returning to Cameroon.
The SUSI program is part of the U.S. government’s public diplomacy initiatives aimed at strengthening educational partnerships and promoting mutual understanding. By participating, educators gain firsthand knowledge of the United States’ historical and civic traditions, improving their ability to integrate American studies into curricula, develop new courses, or enhance existing programs. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit SUSI Program Overview for general information on the institutes.
Program Description
The SUSI for Secondary Educators is designed for experienced secondary school teachers, administrators, teacher trainers, curriculum developers, textbook authors, ministry of education officials, and other educational professionals. The program’s primary goal is to deepen participants’ understanding of American society, history, and institutions, enabling them to enrich their teaching on U.S. studies at their home institutions.
Key features of the program include:
-
Four-week academic residencies hosted at U.S. educational institutions, combining lectures, roundtables, seminars, readings, and workshops.
-
Visits to historical and cultural sites that illustrate America’s rich heritage.
-
Practical teaching resources to develop new curricula or enhance existing courses.
-
Emphasis on content knowledge about the United States, rather than pedagogical methods, for teacher-focused institutes.
-
Opportunities for networking and engagement with other participants, educators, and professionals in the field of American studies.
Program Components
-
Academic Lectures and Seminars: Covering foundational American history, civic education, and contemporary U.S. society.
-
Field Experiences: Visits to iconic historical, cultural, and natural sites to contextualize U.S. content.
-
Resource Development: Participants receive materials to implement U.S. studies programs at their home institutions.
-
Professional Development: Opportunities to refine existing courses, develop new programs, or lead workshops related to American studies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for the SUSI for Secondary Educators program should meet the following requirements:
-
Professional Background: Mid-career secondary educators, administrators, or educational professionals actively engaged in teaching, curriculum development, or educational leadership.
-
Age Range: Generally 30–50 years old, though emphasis is on professional experience and impact potential rather than strict age limits.
-
English Proficiency: Applicants must be proficient in English to participate in seminars, readings, and discussions.
-
Institutional Impact: Candidates whose institutions aim to integrate U.S. studies into curricula, improve existing courses, or develop new educational programs are highly encouraged.
-
Motivation and Experience: Demonstrated motivation, relevant professional experience, and potential for impact and multiplier effect in their home institutions.
Ideal Candidate Attributes
-
Ability to create new courses or programs in American studies.
-
Experience in curriculum reform or national educational policy initiatives.
-
Strong professional standing with capacity to influence peers or institutions.
-
Interest in producing research, publications, or professional development activities related to U.S. studies.
Program Details: When, Where, and Duration
-
Program Type: Five-week educational exchange program
-
Dates: Late May – Early June 2026
-
Location: Academic institutions across the United States
-
Structure:
-
Four weeks of academic residency at U.S. educational institutions.
-
Field-based learning experiences in other U.S. regions.
-
Lectures, workshops, site visits, cultural activities, and engagement with U.S. educational professionals.
-
-
Fully funded by the U.S. Embassy, covering travel, accommodation, and program expenses.
How to Apply
Interested educators must submit their applications online in English. Required documents include:
-
Application Form – Completed in English.
-
Personal Statement/Essay – Maximum 500 words explaining:
-
Motivation for participating.
-
Expected outcomes and personal/professional goals.
-
Contribution to the program.
-
How the experience will be applied post-program to create new courses, research, or educational initiatives.
-
Applications must address one or more of the following potential outcomes:
-
Development of new courses or programs.
-
Curriculum or program reform at institutional or national levels.
-
Professional advancement or promotion.
-
Publication or research initiatives.
-
Creation of new institutional partnerships or professional organizations.
-
Enhancement of institutional profile or policy implementation.
Important Dates and Deadline
-
Application Deadline: Monday, 5 January 2026, 23:59 Cameroon Time
-
Program Duration: Five weeks (late May – early June 2026)
-
Inquiries: For questions, contact: YaoundePDCulturalDL@state.gov
Additional Resources
For Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and additional information on eligibility, program structure, and expectations, applicants are encouraged to consult the official program resources provided by the U.S. Embassy Cameroon and the SUSI Program Overview.
The SUSI for Secondary Educators program offers an unparalleled opportunity for Cameroonian secondary educators and educational professionals to deepen their understanding of U.S. history, society, and institutions. By participating, candidates can enhance their teaching, develop new educational programs, and create a lasting impact on their institutions. This fully funded program provides resources, professional development, and international exposure, positioning participants to become leaders in promoting American studies and intercultural understanding in Cameroon.
APPLY HERE – OFFICIAL APPLICATION LINK
