U.S. Consul General inaugurates English Access Micro Scholarship program for 30 youth leaders in Kolkata

In her remarks, Hoffman said, “The U.S. government is extremely proud of the accomplishments of the English Access Micro scholarship program since it was set up in 2004. If our business as diplomats is to build lasting relationships between Americans and people from across the globe and in the process hopefully make the world a better place, then Access is the perfect tool.”

English Access Micro-scholarship Program is a two-year global scholarship program supported by the U.S. Department of State and is managed by the Regional English Language Office (RELO) in the U.S. Embassy New Delhi, in partnership with Delhi based NGO Learning Links Foundation (LLF) and in conjunction with the Public Affairs Sections of the U.S. Consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai. 

The program provides a foundation of English language skills to selected 13-20 year-old talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds through after-school classes and intensive sessions. 

The program equips the students with strong English language skills that can lead to better jobs, educational opportunities, and gain the ability to participate in and compete for future exchanges and study in the United States. Access students also gain an appreciation for U.S. culture and democratic values through enhancement activities.

Access is much more than just a scholarship program to learn English.  Access program also boosts their self-esteem, open their minds, give them courage, and show them just what they are capable of. 

The U.S. Consulate in Kolkata ensures, through the Access program, that the students have the tools necessary for succeeding in the 21st century:  English skills, cross-cultural skills, computer skills, and critical thinking skills.