Islamabad, U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, Blome, commemorated the 20th anniversary of the U.S.-English Access Scholarship Program at the Best Western Premier Hotel, recognizing the significant achievements of its students, alumni, and teachers. The event highlighted the program’s role in fostering educational opportunities and cultural exchange between the United States and Pakistan.

According to Embassy of the United States of America, Ambassador Blome applauded the program’s success in educating over 27,000 Pakistani students since its inception in 2004, including more than 8,000 from the Islamabad region alone. He praised the contributions of Access alumni who now work across diverse fields such as government, science, business, and the arts, emphasizing the program’s impact on their professional and community lives.

Throughout his speech, Ambassador Blome reflected on the Access program’s broader objectives beyond English language proficiency, including leadership development and community service. He noted the program’s pivotal role in empowering underserved communities, providing them with opportunities for higher education and employment, including scholarships for further studies in the U.S.

The celebration also served as a networking event, reinforcing the ongoing cultural dialogue and cooperation fostered by the Access program. Ambassador Blome expressed his gratitude towards the teachers and coordinators for their dedication and for promoting American culture and values, which enhance mutual understanding between the two nations.