Recently, the U.S. Embassy launched the second group of English Access Microscholarship Programs at the American Language Center (ALC) in Douala.

Mr. John Taylor, Director of the U.S. Embassy Branch Office in Douala, awarded the scholarships to forty students selected for the program which is sponsored by a $50,000 USD (over 30 million CFA) grant from the American people through the U.S. Department of State.

The ALC in Douala will provide two years of English courses for students ranging from ages 13 through 15 selected from eight secondary schools in Douala. The program includes tutorials, books and materials, transportation, academic enhancement, and cultural activities.

Congratulating the students, Mr. Taylor noted that the Access program “exemplifies United States’ commitment to support Africa’s development by investing in its youth.

Youth empowerment is central to President Obama’s vision for Africa’s future.” Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Secondary Education of Cameroon, Mrs. Elisabeth Noutsa highlighted the Government of Cameroon’s appreciation to the American people for promoting education among the youth.

The scholarship recipients then sang songs of appreciation to the officials present for giving them the opportunity to “learn English to become better prepared as citizens to serve Cameroon.”

The English Access Microscholarship Program is implemented in 85 countries around the world and has provided more than 100,000 students with a strong foundation of English language skills.

Through afterschool classes and intensive summer learning activities, students are exposed to American culture and values, increase their ability to participate successfully in the socio-economic development of their countries, and enhance their ability to compete and participate in future U.S. exchange and study programs.

This seventh English Access Microscholarship Program group increases the number of young Cameroonians who have benefitted from this scholarship to 282 accounting for a total funding of $375,000 (CFA 200 million).