The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

The UK will provide £50 million (approximately Taka 700 crore) for a programme called "English in Action." This 9-year programme is expected to significantly increase the quality of education for 25 million people, contributing to economic and social development in the country.

Shahid Malik, the UK Minister for International Development, said: "In an increasingly globalised world, having a workforce with good English language skills is a definite advantage. It can help people get better paid jobs and improve the chances of poorer people lifting themselves out of poverty.

"Ordinary Bangladeshis have the desire and ability to change their lives for the better and the UK is proud to work with the Government to give them the chance to do that. Our two countries enjoy a good relationship based on a shared history and a vibrant Bangladeshi community in the UK. I am glad that we are able to support economic and social progress for the poorest people in Bangladesh and ensure they have a brighter future."

English in Action is an innovative and comprehensive programme that will target a number of different ages and groups. It will provide teachers at primary and secondary level with a firm foundation for teaching English; and it will offer opportunities for using and practising English in a variety of economic and social contexts. By raising the standard of English language, the programme will also address a major skills gap in the workforce and will help the country become more competitive in both internal and international labour markets.

English in Action will make use of rapidly expanding mobile phone technology in Bangladesh It will use television and radio to stimulate interest and debate, and to reach the maximum number of people with appropriate learning programmes. It will also provide a wide range of supportive printed and audio learning materials which will be available to a wide range of learners.