“One of our main goals is to welcome youth from throughout the world to expose them to peers from different regions and cultures, and promote a sense of global citizenship, leadership, and responsibility. There is no better way to promote development in each nation than through education, which is essential for the advancement of boys and girls. Every person can make a difference to promote justice, opportunities, and equality for all,” Mr. Djoken said.

Mr. Quiroz lauded Mr. Djoken’s background as an NAACP leader and his current work: “As a Cameroonian American, it is an honor to see not only that you have attained success in your personal and professional goals, but that you are strongly committed to expanding those same opportunities to youth around the world and in your native homeland through UNESCO’s partnerships for educational exchanges.

As President Obama has said, among the United States of America’s highest foreign policy priorities are to partner with young African leaders whose efforts empower youth through expanded educational and economic opportunities, especially for women and girls. Thanks for your leadership and commitment to serve youth.”

To learn more about the UNESCO Center for Peace, please see: http://www.unescocenterforpeace.org/.