The event featured student performances showcasing the rich culture of south Punjab, which captivated the audience.
ISLAMABAD: US Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer announced that the US government has supported 30,000 students in Pakistan in improving their English language skills. He made this statement during a ceremony for the “Access” Scholarship Programme, which focuses on English language education.
Schofer highlighted that the US government has been offering scholarships for the past 20 years and is also involved in other programs aimed at developing leadership skills and enhancing professional capabilities.
He expressed his pleasure at visiting Multan and remarked on the impressive cultural performances by students. Schofer emphasized that the English Access Scholarship Programme, running since 2004, has significantly impacted 30,000 students and expressed optimism for the new batch of 300 students, who he believes will soon excel in English.
Vice Chancellor of Education University Asim Saeed praised the program for its benefits to students and their families and assured full support for its success. The Coordinator Ms. Rahat and other officials outlined that 40 teachers were selected from over 100 applicants to teach the language, and 300 scholarships were awarded from nearly 1000 applications.
The event featured student performances showcasing the rich culture of south Punjab, which captivated the audience. US Consul General Ms. Kristin K Hawkins and other guests attended the ceremony.
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Following the event, Deputy Chief of Mission Schofer visited Lutfabad Mango Farm (LMFPU), which had previously benefited from USAID-funded projects, including the FIRMS project (2009-2014) and the Agricultural Market Development (AMD) Project (2015-2019).
These projects helped LMFPU gain GlobalGAP certification, establish infrastructure like a mango packing house and cold storage, and provide advanced grading equipment to 13 mango processing facilities in Punjab and Sindh. USAID’s support has assisted LMFPU in expanding its mango exports to high-end international markets by meeting grading and packaging standards.
