House Resolution 9

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION ENCOURAGING AND SUPPORTING INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION IN THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE GLOBAL SOCIETY.

WHEREAS, advances in communication and transportation technology over the past half-century have made today's world increasingly interconnected, and as a result, successful businesses, universities and governments depend on a global perspective; and

WHEREAS, this new era of global exchange has created a marketplace of ideas in which citizens of the world from distinct social, cultural, religious and linguistic backgrounds cooperate and compete on a daily basis; and

WHEREAS, with foreign trade projected to be a key sector of Mississippi economy, the Magnolia State's future is inextricably tied to that of the entire world; and

WHEREAS, evidence of the growing connection between Mississippi and the rest of the world can be found in the Institute of International Education's Open Doors Report 2003, which indicates that Mississippi had 2,143 foreign students studying in the state for the 2002-2003 academic year, and these foreign students and their families contributed an estimated $44 million to the Mississippi economy in 2002-2003, in addition to shedding light on the existence of tremendous growth opportunities; and

WHEREAS, international education is critical to promoting a broadened worldview and thereby preparing Mississippians for life and work in the global economy; moreover, creating a diverse academic environment by exchanging scholars and students between countries builds the foundation for future international business success; and

WHEREAS, the United States' national security and economic competitiveness depend significantly on the country's ability to provide future leaders with the best education possible; and

WHEREAS, the House of Representatives finds that international education is an essential component of the bright future of the great State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby support and encourage international education in efforts of ensuring that students and future leaders are prepared to meet the challenges of a global society.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.