The U.S. Embassy in Niamey has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Secondary Educators program, aimed at secondary school teachers and education administrators in Niger.
This fully funded academic exchange will take place over five weeks in the United States, beginning between late May and early June 2026. The program is designed to enhance teaching about the United States in secondary schools and other educational institutions abroad by providing participants with an in-depth understanding of American society, history, and foundational principles.
According to the announcement, "The goal of the program is to enhance and strengthen curricula about the United States and to equip educators with high-quality academic content and resources for classroom use."
The SUSIs will consist of three multinational groups totaling 60 participants: two groups for secondary school teachers and one group for experienced education administrators such as senior leaders, curriculum developers, textbook writers, teacher trainers, and Ministry of Education officials. The focus is on U.S. studies content rather than teaching methods or English language instruction.
Participants will engage in a four-week academic residency at a U.S. institution followed by a one-week field experience elsewhere in the country if conditions allow. Activities include lectures, seminars, workshops, site visits, meetings with practitioners and community leaders, as well as engagement with key American texts like the U.S. Constitution and Gettysburg Address.
"Each Institute includes: A four-week academic residency at a U.S. educational institution; A one-week academic field experience in another region of the United States, if conditions allow," states the embassy's release.
Host institutions include University of Montana (Missoula), which will administer one institute for teachers; Institute for Training and Development (Amherst) hosting another; while California State University Chico will conduct the institute focused on administrators.
All costs—including travel, visas, housing, meals, materials, cultural activities, allowances, and health coverage—will be covered by the U.S. Department of State.
Selection is merit-based with emphasis on professional experience and potential impact upon return home. Priority will be given to those intending to develop or expand courses related to U.S. studies who have limited prior exposure to American culture or education systems.
Candidates should be mid-career professionals aged 30–50 working directly with students aged approximately 14–18 years old. Strong English proficiency is required since all sessions are conducted entirely in English.
"Candidates must be willing and able to fully participate in an intensive academic program," notes the embassy announcement.
U.S. citizens or permanent residents are not eligible; nor are relatives of staff from either Embassy or Fulbright programs.
Applications close January 9th, 2025 COB (close-of-business). For more information or questions regarding eligibility or application procedures contact NigerExchanges@state.gov.