On February 26, U.S. Ambassador to Egypt Stephen Beecroft awarded scholarships to 352 young Egyptians at the American University in Cairo's Ewart Hall. These scholarships are part of the English Access Microscholarship Program by the U.S. Department of State, offering two years of English language classes and extracurricular activities. Exceptional students also have the opportunity to visit the United States.
Ambassador Beecroft addressed the students, stating, “You are embarking on a program that will help you gain useful tools for a better future. Access will help you become a fluent English speaker. It will also provide the opportunity to practice job skills such as interviewing, to enhance your computer expertise, and to gain experience working in teams on community service projects.”
The ceremony included participation from Access Program alumni who shared their experiences and advice with new students. One alumnus presented a video about his time in the program and his trip to the U.S.
Currently, 752 students are enrolled in the Access program, with 1856 alumni from 17 governorates across Egypt. Since its inception in Egypt in 2006, it has benefited 2608 young people.
The English Access Microscholarship Program is among over 30 initiatives offered by the U.S. Embassy for learners and teachers of English throughout Egypt.