We are launching our biggest and perhaps most ambitious project to date. English in Action aims to make English-language learning accessible to millions of people in Bangladesh. Drama and discussion programmes on television will capture attention, and the mobile phone will be turned into a powerful learning device.
People recognise that English is one of the skills that can help them in the workplace.
Caroline Howie, Regional Director, Asia, BBC World Service Trust
The aim of this multi-platform, multi-genre, multi-country initiative is to provide Bangladeshis with the English language skills necessary to participate fully in economic and social activity. This will improve their employment prospects, enhance livelihoods and offer better access to the world economy. Providing opportunities for all sections of society, Bangladeshi youth especially are expected to benefit.
Desire to learn
"Surveys we've carried out suggest people recognise that English is one of the skills that can help them in the workplace. The BBC has a long tradition of making English language learning more accessible, and we're delighted to be launching this project that will put English within reach of our millions of viewers and listeners in Bangladesh."
Caroline Howie, Regional Director, Asia, BBC World Service Trust
Mobile usage
Working in partnership
The BBC World Service have teamed up with BBC Learning English, a department of the BBC World Service.
Other parts of the project, including work in schools, will be delivered by the Open University and the Open Learning System Education Trust based in South Africa.
English in Action is supported by DFID.