The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is soliciting applications for a cooperative agreement to administer the FY 2024 National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program. This program aims to enhance American youth's proficiency in critical foreign languages to bolster national security and promote mutual understanding. Eligible organizations are invited to propose programs for approximately 535 participants in overseas language immersion and 200 in virtual language programs starting in 2025. The funding opportunity encompasses a total of $10 million for initial and potential follow-on fiscal years, focusing on languages such as Arabic, Mandarin, Hindi, and Russian. Proposals must outline recruitment strategies aimed at diverse and underserved populations and demonstrate experience in international exchanges.
Participating organizations are responsible for providing language instruction, cultural immersion activities, and necessary compliance with safety and well-being standards for participants. Successful applicants will be expected to produce comprehensive reports on performance, participant language acquisition, and program effectiveness. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader objectives of enhancing global engagement through language education, preparing youth for a competitive economy, and fostering international dialogue and cultural exchange.
The document outlines the Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) for applicants to the Example Program, funded by the federal government's Education and Cultural Affairs (ECA) Bureau. It details the Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) Framework, specifying the steps applicants must follow to develop a PMP that aligns with established performance indicators. Key sections include filling out applicant details, selecting relevant MODE indicators, and setting targets for data collection. The document emphasizes the collection of self-reported data for various demographic questions and performance indicators aimed at assessing program outcomes, such as cultural competence and community engagement.
Additionally, it defines the terms crucial for understanding indicators, delineates processes for disaggregating data by gender, age, and race, and specifies the survey requirements for assessing participant experiences post-program. The overarching goal is to improve the assessment and impact measurement of cultural exchange programs, ensuring consistency and relevance across initiatives. This PMP serves as a foundational tool for evaluating the effectiveness of ECA programs and participant engagement, reinforcing the government’s commitment to enhancing international relationships through structured monitoring and evaluation.