Luanda: The Embassy of the United States of America in Angola organised the second edition of the US FAIR 2024 in Luanda, aimed at promoting educational and professional opportunities for Angolans. The event saw participation from multiple US universities and companies operating in Angola across sectors like health, mineral extraction, and oil exploration.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the fair gathered hundreds of young students from various public and private educational institutions, facilitating an exchange of ideas and providing information about scholarship opportunities at American universities. James Story, the chargé d’affaires of the US Embassy in Angola, emphasized the event’s potential to foster economic and educational opportunities, thus building bridges for common prosperity between the Angolan and American people.
Story further noted that over 70 American companies are currently working in Angola, highlighting the country’s strategic importance. He referenced Prosper Africa, an init
iative facilitating billions of dollars in private sector business, mentioning Boeing’s $3.6 billion agreement with TAAG as a prime example. Additionally, an investment of $40 million aims to modernise Rádio Nacional de Angola, enhancing its reach to 95% of the Angolan population to keep them connected and informed.
The event also underscored the bilateral partnership in health, with programmes targeting malaria and HIV/AIDS. Story mentioned the EducationUSA programme, which provides educational advice and supports more than 500 students annually in Angola, including guidance on university applications, scholarships, and visas. He highlighted that over 600 Angolan students are currently studying in the United States, underscoring the importance of entrepreneurship in driving prosperity and innovation.
Paula Regina Simões de Oliveira, Minister for Higher Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESCTI), remarked on the fair’s significance for Angolan youth, strengthening ties between Angola and the US,
and offering students and their families a chance to explore study opportunities at prestigious US universities. She noted the fair’s role in clarifying essential scholarship application processes, facilitating academic journeys, and enhancing cooperation in knowledge, culture, ideas, and entrepreneurship.
António Pacavira, president of the National Association of Private Education, highlighted the substantial benefits of cooperation with the American embassy, notably in exchange and professional development opportunities for teachers and students. He mentioned ongoing efforts to expand programmes that allow more than 60 students to pursue higher education in the United States and provide specialisation opportunities for teachers.