SARGODHA (Staff Report) – A delegation of US diplomats in Pakistan visited the Lincoln Corner at University of Sargodha on Tuesday to meet volunteers, alumni of US-funded exchange programs, and participants of an English Summer Camp.
Consulate General Lahore Public Affairs Officer Rachael Chen and Information Resource Officer at US Embassy Marcy A Carrel met with the “Friends of the Corner”. They are the volunteers who help plan and implement activities and events at the Lincoln Corner, which is located in the Central Library at the University of Sargodha.
One volunteer said, “The Lincoln Corner provides us the opportunity to gain experience as volunteers. We can make a difference by organising different programs here.”
During a presentation for participants of the English Summer Camp, Ms Carrel and Ms Chen discussed the US Constitution, US Federal Government and US Federal Elections. Students enjoyed the presentation and were eager to ask questions.
Many noted with interest the differences between American’s system of government and the parliamentary system of Pakistan.
Lincoln Corners are partnerships between the Embassy of the United States of America and selected institutions in Pakistan. Located within universities, public libraries, and other institutions, Lincoln Corners are multi-media resource centers, where visitors can connect, practice their English, and learn about America in many different ways.
Lincoln Corners provide access to current and reliable information about America through books, magazines, videos, internet, databases, and programs for the general public. Cultural programs, speakers, and special events bring added excitement to a space.
Currently there are 16 Lincoln Corners located in and around Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Muzaffarabad, Peshawar, Karachi, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Khairpur, Larkana, Hyderabad, and Skardu. Three are located in Punjab with a fourth one opening soon in Multan.
Each corner is staffed by a Coordinator, a bilingual Pakistani professional who is available to assist visitors with specific interests about America. Like all Lincoln Corners, this corner focuses on two undisputed values that both countries share: education and democracy.
Ms Chen also met with local leaders, bureaucrats, International Exchange Alumni, academics, NGO leaders, and legal professionals over tea at the Lincoln Corner and discussed a variety of ideas to improve US-Pakistan bilateral relations.
