The United States Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of the ‘English Access Scholarship Program’, applauding the achievements of its alumni, students, and teachers.
At a ceremony held in Islamabad on June 1, 2024, Ambassador Blome emphasized the program’s significant role in fostering educational and professional development in Pakistan.
The English Access Scholarship Program, initiated in 2004, has seen more than 27,000 Pakistani students graduate, with over 8,000 alumni from the Islamabad region alone.
The program not only enhances English-language proficiency but also develops future leaders by teaching leadership skills and fostering a sense of self-belief that extends beyond the classroom. “Today, our Access alumni work in every profession you can think of – government, science, business, agriculture, academics, the arts, law enforcement, and many others. I am proud of their achievements and the role the U.S. mission in Pakistan has played in supporting them,” Blome noted.
Ambassador Blome highlighted the program’s success, stating, “Our English-language programs are one of the highlights of the long-standing cooperation between the United States and Pakistan. The U.S. government is supporting Access because we believe in building connections between Americans and Pakistanis.”
During his tenure in Islamabad, Ambassador Blome and the U.S. Embassy’s Regional English Language Office have facilitated numerous gatherings, such as the recent anniversary celebration, to promote networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among Access alumni. Blome remarked, “I have traveled across Pakistan and have always been impressed with the impact Access alumni are having in their respective communities. Their journey towards community service, volunteerism, and spreading knowledge and opportunities to others creates a ripple effect fundamental to the principles of this program.”
U.S. Mission Spokesperson Jonathan Lalley echoed Blome’s sentiments, stating, “Access to English opens a world of opportunity. The United States is delighted to celebrate 20 years of the English Access Scholarship Program in Pakistan. The skills students learn during the two-year program have a life-long impact, reflecting the best of the U.S.-Pakistan partnership.”
“We are proud of the professional achievements of our Access alumni, and the positive and long-lasting impact they have on their communities. The work they are doing to build a brighter future reflects the best of the U.S.-Pakistan partnership.”
The event underscored the enduring success of the Access program in Pakistan, with teachers and coordinators receiving a well-deserved round of applause for their dedication. Ambassador Blome extended his gratitude to the educators, saying, “Thank you for participating in our training and exchange programs and helping us teach American culture and values, leading to a stronger cultural understanding between our countries.”
As the ceremony concluded, Blome encouraged current students and alumni to continue leveraging the skills and opportunities provided by the Access program. “Whether achieving admissions into local universities, obtaining employment, or receiving scholarships to study in the U.S., I hope all the Access alumni present today are proud of yourselves for putting the tools Access taught you to great use,” he said.
The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan remains committed to supporting educational initiatives like the English Access Scholarship Program, ensuring that the benefits of such programs continue to empower Pakistani youth for years to come.
For those interested in learning more about the Access program or other English learning opportunities, visit the “RELO Pakistan” Facebook page or reach out to the U.S. Embassy, Consulates, and Lincoln Corners.
