Accessing English


            In the huge language mosaic of Morocco, where Arabic, French, Spanish, Amazigh create a pattern, English is in high demand! Schools and colleges across the country are reaching out to teach more and more English - the language of business, of the internet and of success! The private Primary school we visited - Ajiyal Souss Privee introduces English in second grade, while most public schools begin English instruction in middle school.  To bridge the gap between public and private, the Education ministry has created Access centers.  Apart from being synonymous with the English test we administer in the US, there is nothing else in common.

         Access centers have been created all across Morocco for low income students to learn English.  There is an application and interview process for the students.  However, once a student is selected, they receive not just English instruction, but numerous opportunities for personality development. Two young students we met have just received scholarships to spend a year at a high school in the US! Way to go Yasmine and Rachida!


       Here is the Access center we visited in Derfoufi High School, Tikiwin.  The students were bright and eager to engage in discussions.They had recently painted their classroom.  Their rules are simple
"Work hard, and be kind".
Saida talking about her future plans

The inspirational classroom

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