Developmental Disabilities Institute (MI UCEDD) Hosts U.S. Department of State Delegates from Tajikistan
August 4, 2013
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| DDI will send Angela Martin as a representative to Tajikistan to participate in a preliminary exchange visit to build the foundation for a collaborative project and effective international relationship. |
The Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI) at Wayne State University has been selected to participate in a U.S. Department of State sponsored Professional Fellows EMPOWER Program, administered by Mobility International USA (MIUSA). This two-way international exchange program aims to expand the capacity of organizations in the U.S. and abroad to promote inclusive communities and advance the rights of persons with disabilities around the world.
From August 29 to September 5, 2013, DDI will send a representative to Tajikistan to participate in a preliminary exchange visit to build the foundation for a collaborative project and effective international relationship.
In October 2013, DDI will host representatives from two Tajikistan-based organizations to address disability law and policy advocacy and access to services for persons with Autism and other disabilities. These organizations include IRODA, which is an organization that promotes disability rights and equality through the raising of awareness about the needs of children with disabilities; and Equal Opportunities which is a non-governmental organization that protects the rights and interests of vulnerable populations and groups.
During the three-week program with DDI, participants will work alongside American counterparts and gain first-hand experience as to how issues in their field are addressed in the U.S. The participants will also build an understanding of American culture through site visits and community-based events.
To conclude the U.S. program, participants will gather in Washington, D.C., to take part in a closing conference with all Empower Partnership participants. The conference provides a forum for participants to network and discuss best practices with other leaders in their profession and to share projects that will be implemented upon their return home.
About The Developmental Disabilities Institute
DDI is a university affiliated program that contributes to the development of inclusive communities and quality of life for people with disabilities and their families through education, community support and services, research, and dissemination of information. Housed at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, USA, and part of the national network of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), DDI works to accomplish a shared vision that foresees a nation in which all Americans, including Americans with disabilities, participate fully in their communities. Independence, productivity, and community inclusion are key components of this vision.
Location: Detroit, Michigan, USA / Website: http://ddi.wayne.edu
About the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Exchange supports exchange programs that increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries. Approximately 50,000 individuals take part annually in exchange programs managed by the U.S. Department of State.
For more information please visit: http://www.miusa.org/exchange/currentprogs/empower, http://eca.state.gov/programs-initiatives/disabilities-exchange-programs, and http://ddi.wayne.edu or contact:
Dr. Barbara LeRoy, Developmental Disabilities Institute, (888) 978-4334, [email protected]
Anna Griffin, U.S. Department of State, (202) 632-6452, [email protected]
