Aqaba – U.S. Ambassador to Jordan Alice Wells joined the Director of the Aqaba Directorate of Education, teachers, and family members in celebrating the graduation of 100 students from the English Access Microscholarship Program on Tuesday in Aqaba.
The Access program develops English language skills and capabilities among economically-disadvantaged youth, while also introducing them to American culture and society through after-school classes and enhancement activities. Access students often gain enough English to participate in future U.S. exchange and study programs.
In her remarks to the graduating students, Ambassador Wells challenged them to make use of their new skills.
“It is often said that graduation is a beginning, not an end. In this new phase, you will be called on to use your knowledge and experiences to make decisions that will impact not only yourself, but also your communities,” she said. “Looking out at all of you, I feel optimistic. I see within each of you the capacity to meet these challenges. I see a generation that, like none other before it, has the opportunity to determine what future they will live.”
Since its inception in 2004, over 70,000 students in more than 85 countries have participated in the Access Program. In Jordan, the program started as a pilot in 2006 hosting 86 students in the Aqaba region. In 2007, the program was launched Jordan-wide and now hosts 480 students yearly.
Access programs are also offered in Zarqa, Irbid, Amman, and other locations throughout Jordan. More information on Embassy English language programs.
