USEFI Organizes Annual Conference of U.S. Fulbrighters in Goa

February 11, 2004
New Delhi

The United States Educational Foundation in India (USEFI) held its annual mid-year review conference of U.S. Fulbright scholars in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka in Goa from February 9 - 11, 2004.

The largest ever Fulbright gathering of this nature, the conference was attended by approximately 150 participants, including the Fulbrighters and their dependents, and U.S. Embassy personnel in the sub-continent. The forum provided an opportunity to the Fulbrighters to discuss their experiences, exchange ideas and invite suggestions for the future.

Designated as "Melavo," the Konkani word for "gathering," the conference had its formal opening at the Bambolim Beach Resort at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, February 9, in the presence of Fulbright Commission Directors, officials of the USEFI and representatives of the U.S. State Department and Government of India. At the inaugural ceremony, Mr. Robert C. Schmidt, Cultural Affairs Officer, U.S. Embassy, welcomed the participants and Dr. Michael H. Anderson, Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Embassy, presented the opening remarks. Prof. Jane Schukoske, Executive Director, USEFI, introduced the program highlights; Mr. Ravi Mathur, Joint Secretary (Higher Education), Union Ministry of Human Resource Development, and a member of the USEFI board presented his comments; and Mr. Anthony Kluttz presented greetings on behalf of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State.

The participants associated with different disciplines were divided into groups to share their experiences during the conference. In addition, special sessions were arranged, including, "What it means to be a Fulbrighter: Cultural Adjustment in South Asia," "Taking the Fulbright Experience Home - Preparing to Speak/Write/Perform in the USA" and "Issues in US Foreign Policy." These were addressed by experts from different fields.

On February 11, Assistant Secretary of State Ms. Christina Rocca and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Academic Programs Mr. Thomas Farrell also joined the conferees. While Mr. Farrell chaired two sessions, Ms. Rocca addressed the gathering on "US Relations with South Asia: 2004 Agenda." The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, hosted a cultural performance for the Fulbright community the same evening.