Access to English opens a world of opportunity. The United States celebrated 20 years of the English Access Scholarship Program in Pakistan in collaboration with PUAN which has been led by Urooj Haider from Vision Building Future. Since its launch in 2004, the Access program has helped more than 27,000 Pakistani students from diverse backgrounds build English and leadership skills – including students who might otherwise be overlooked or underserved. Ambassador Donald Blome celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the program by gracing the occasion with more than 300 Access alumni and students in the Islamabad region. “Access – Pakistan, U.S. dosti ka naam” was the theme rightly given to these celebration. It was a jam-packed gathering of aspiring Access alumni and instructors. The meet-up was all about presentations, personal journeys as agents of change, panel talks, cultural depiction of various areas of Pakistan, cake cutting ceremony and celebrations.

Check out the highlights in the video.

For two decades, the English Access Microscholarship Program has been transforming the lives of economically disadvantaged students in Pakistan, fostering English proficiency, leadership, and broader educational prospects. This celebration commemorated the program’s legacy, spotlighting alumni success stories and its long-term societal impact.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of instructors, the event brought them to the forefront, recognizing their contributions in front of high-ranking officials. With the engagement of government and American diplomats, the event showcased the program’s profound influence and promoted diplomatic ties.

By celebrating 20 years, the project highlighted achievements, acknowledged the US Embassy’s support, enhanced alumni-instructor bonds, and served as a platform for future success, honoring the program’s past and paving the way for ongoing excellence.