Ambassador Hale congratulates 1,000 Access English-language graduates

KARACHI: American Ambassador David Hale praised the achievements of 1,000 students graduating from a U.S. Department of State-funded Access English-language program.

“The potential of Pakistan’s youth is tremendous,” said Ambassador Hale.  “You love learning. You care deeply about your families, your communities, and your country.  You are engaged in the world around and beyond Pakistan.”

The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs funds the English Access Microscholarship Program. The Access program in Pakistan is among the world’s largest.

Since its inception in 2004, more than 95,000 students in more than 85 countries have participated. Access provides a foundation of English-language skills to talented 13-18 year-olds from economically disadvantaged areas through after-school classes and intensive enrichment activities.

Participants gain skills that may lead to better jobs and educational prospects; they can also compete for and participate in future exchanges and study programs in the United States. 

The Access program is offered free of charge and helps students develop proficiency in the English language from beginner to intermediate levels, providing them with a variety of experiences to enhance confidence, instill democratic values, volunteerism, and positive civic values and attitudes.