The purpose of the English Access Microscholarship Program is to make the study of English more accessible to adolescents from an economically disadvantaged background and is supported by the U.S. Embassy in Armenia. In addition to working on their language skills, the participants of the program become familiar with the aspects of US culture and develop deeper understanding of current issues in North American society. Greater sensitivity to cultural differences, coupled with the acquired language skills, enable the participants to take advantage of the opportunities that had previously been unavailable to them.
Throughout 2012-14 the program worked with 60 economically-underprivileged students aged 14-18 in 3 regional sites of Armenia (Nor Hachn, Dilijan and Chambarak), providing after-school and summer English classes and enrichment activities at no cost to the students and enhancing English language skills thereby developing increased self-confidence, stronger critical thinking skills, and increased opportunities for study or employment. Throughout 2014-16 PHI continued the program in Nor Hachn and Chambarak, and launched the program in Goris as well. In November of 2015 the program got extended in 2 new regional sites - the towns of Yeghvard and Armavir, thus reaching out to 160 economically-underprivileged students aged 13-15.
PH International works with local schools and the general community in mentioned 3 sites to provide after-school English language instruction (150 hours annually) and enrichment activities through summer camps. Summer schools run six hours a day for five days and provide students with English and American culture training and recreational activities.
During enhancement activities the students will explore concepts and practices on leadership, civic activism, power of mobilizing community resources, meaningful uses of social media tools, project design and management - all these aim to boost their personal growth and development.
