International Education

The CCI Program

The Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) is partnered with Community Colleges for International Development (CCID) for the administration of the Community College Initiative Programs (CCI Programs). ECA launched the programs to build on achievements of the U.S. University Presidents Summit on International Education that was convened by the former Secretary of State and Secretary of Education in January 2006. The CCI Programs provide quality educational programs, professional development, employment skills and a first-hand understanding of American society to underserved, non-elite international students, particularly women and students in their early/mid-twenties who already have work experience. Participants are selected from priority countries, including Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan, South Africa, Turkey, Ghana, Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Panama.

The CCI Programs demonstrate abroad the U.S. commitment to education for all by providing access to educational opportunities for a broader sector of international students. ECA hopes this will engage community colleges in the United States as the number of international students enrolled at U.S. community colleges increases and reinforces community college efforts to build international ties. U.S. community colleges make a unique contribution to international educational exchange by demonstrating the flexibility and relevance of American higher education and the manner in which community colleges provide quality technical and first-level professional education to vital sectors of society that are essential for nations to move forward economically and politically. Community colleges also provide a model of lower-cost community-based higher education that offers wide access to skills development to broad
sectors of the population for existing jobs.

International students selected for academic study at accredited U.S. community colleges under these initiatives receive educational opportunities, professional development, and exposure to American society which enables them to return home with unique skills and experience with which to contribute to the growth and development of their countries' societies. Upon return, these students will be able to enter the skilled work force and fill important needs in their home countries.