READ Foundation, a renowned non-governmental organization, in partnership with the U.S. State Department is running the English Access Microscholarship Program (Access) in Gojra; Bhimber; Dheri Wattan and Mirpur – empowering 400 students from Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Access is an afterschool program designed to empower talented 13-20 year old students from disadvantaged backgrounds – those who can’
t make much of their lives because of lack of opportunity and resources. More than a mere English language course, Access opens a doorway for brilliant minds to a world of opportunities. It provides a playing field for the youth to learn exercise and grow. Access empowers the youth with its dynamic leadership development, confidence building, peer work, community development and cultural exposure elements - results are noticeable as early as 6 months into the program. Students who shy away from using English in their conversations gradually start speaking in day-to-day interactions with each other and those around them. Results are not limited to the student’s ability to start speaking in English, there is also a noticeable improvement in their confidence and overall conduct as they gradually fluff their feathers, spread their wings and get a feel of the wind before they take off. Access graduates today, are soaring high; students have attained the dream they always thought would remain just that – a dream. The program at first blush seems to focus on an individual, however, it is empowering communities to develop without much dependence on external support.
