The note on today’s program at Hill Crest Higher Secondary School, Rynjah

SHILLONG, APR 19: On April 17, Juan Clar, Deputy Director of the American Center in Kolkata, joined 25 students of the English Access Microscholarship Program at the Hill Crest School in Shillong to motivate them on their Access journey. The program administered by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), under the U.S. Department of State, provides a foundation of English language skills to bright, economically disadvantaged 13–25-year-olds.

The students today through their powerful presentations on Maya Angelou’s poem ‘Life Doesn’t Frighten Me’, and a skit on climate change highlighted how the Access classes have empowered them to think critically, enhanced their public speaking skills, and are grooming them to be real changemakers in the society, as they become the newest link in advancing U.S. friendship. The event underscored U.S. Department of State’s initiatives to help underserved communities achieve success.

Inaugurated in September 2018, the Access Program is the first of its kind in Meghalaya, managed by provider Sishu Sarathi based out of Guwahati. The last program brought together students from ethnic backgrounds to acquire 21st- century skills, learn and become future leaders in a dynamic learning environment.

Access students also gain an appreciation for U.S. culture and democratic values. Upon completing the program, they are eligible to compete for and participate in future exchanges and study in the United States. Access is funded by the ECA, and is managed by the Regional English Language Office (RELO) in New Delhi in conjunction with the Public Affairs Sections in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Since its launch in India in 2004, Access has reached over 100,000 students. Currently, there are 1800 students enrolled in the program. Through Access, students receive at least 360 hours of English language instruction over the course of two years. Access classes are taught by trained teachers who use student-centred approaches to emphasize active learning.

Access alumni are regularly selected for other USG exchange opportunities, including the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program, the Benjamin Franklin Program, and the Community College Initiative (CCI) Program. In addition, both teachers and students are eligible to participate in other ECA exchange programs specifically designed for Access alumni.