Fulbright scholarship for first Qatari woman

The US Fulbright programme has granted Fatima Bishri a scholarship to teach Arabic at the Madison University in Wisconsin. She is the first Qatari woman to receive such a scholarship.
She was received yesterday by US Ambassador Joseph LeBaron at his residence in Doha and presented with a certificate of appreciation.
The Fulbright programme is designed for assistant foreign languages teachers in American universities, and at the same time enhance their English language, teaching methods and knowledge of the American society.
Prof Bishri is to leave for the US in August for a full academic year.
LeBaron said during a press conference, that Prof Bishri was selected from among a group of professors from various countries to teach in American universities, noting that they are perceived as cultural ambassadors of their countries.
“Their presence in American universities is a valuable opportunity for colleagues and students to increase their knowledge of Arab and Islamic culture,” he added.
He referred to US President Barack Obama’s speech to the Muslim world, stressing the importance of cultural and educational exchange programmes.
LeBaron called for more Qatari participations in this programme, particularly in science and technology, in order to promote partnership between the US and Islamic world.
The ambassador pointed out to the availability of many other programmes in which Qatari nationals can participate, such as the PhD, teaching assistants, university and school students, as well as the private and public sectors’ staff.
He explained that Prof Bishri was selected to receive the Fulbright programme scholarship based on her high skills and mastery of the Arabic and English languages, adding that the programme would provide other similar scholarships in the future.
Prof Bishri said she had received encouragement and support from her family, and she would promote Qatar’s traditions and culture during her stay in the US
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