About

The U.S. Mission to Iraq is inviting applications for its English Access Microscholarship Program for Students with Disabilities.

The English Access Microscholarship Program (Access) provides a foundation of English language skills to bright, economically disadvantaged students, primarily between the ages of 13 to 18. Access programs give participants English skills that may lead to better jobs and educational prospects. As part of their course work, Access students gain an appreciation for American culture and democratic values, increase their ability to participate in their countries’ socioeconomic development and better prepare themselves to compete for future U.S. exchange and study programs. Students are encouraged to develop respect for and interest in other cultures, customs, and beliefs.

Implementers are encouraged to thoughtfully design activities include the following topics: global citizenship, STEM subjects, critical thinking, environmental awareness, human rights, U.S. democracy and government, U.S. civil society, diversity and tolerance, U.S. History, U.S. education system, U.S. family and relationship values, and U.S. and global health. The implementer should state their plans to address the special needs of participants. The program also provides U.S.-based professional development and English-language workshops for selected teachers and students. Since the U.S. Department of State launched the program in 2004, approximately 200,000 students in more than 90 countries have participated in the Access Program.

Objectives 

• Provide students with mobility impairments with English-language training. 

• Share American culture and values. 

• Identify students’ appropriate career paths based on individual skills, personality traits, and aspirations. 

• Provide supplemental trainings in soft skills to prepare the young participants to be dynamic, motivated, and conscious recruits.

• Build confidence and leadership skills through targeted civic education training that links with future employability. 

• Provide opportunities for students with mobility impairments to use their new skills in a positive and supportive setting. 

• Develop the English Language Teaching (ELT) skills of teachers and their ability to guide youth in identifying appropriate career paths and contributing to their communities through civic engagement.

Funding Information

• Total Program Funding: $200,000 

• Award Ceiling: $200,000

• Award Floor: $100,000

• Length of performance period: 12 months 

Eligibility

• The following organizations are eligible to apply: 

  • US and foreign Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society non-governmental organizations. 

  • Have demonstrated experience developing and administering similar programs. 

  • Have the capacity to operate in Iraq and have active partnerships with organization(s) operating in Iraq needed to support the program.   

• All Federal assistance recipients must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and a CCR (CAGE) number prior to funds disbursement. 

Post Date: August 19, 2024