US helping next generation with tools to lead in Sri Lanka and beyond

The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka on Monday celebrated the graduation of 90 secondary school students from Jaffna, Trincomalee, and Nuwara Eliya who completed the U.S.-funded English Access Scholarship Program.

The ceremony, held in Galle, featured U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung and Professor Gamani Fonseka, Director of Smart International Professionals for Leadership Education (SIPLEE), who presented certificates to the graduates.

The free two-year program, implemented in partnership with SIPLEE, provides intensive English language and leadership training to economically disadvantaged youth, expanding their educational and career opportunities while strengthening people-to-people ties between the United States and Sri Lanka. 

At the graduation ceremony, Access students showcased their growing confidence and English proficiency by serving as Masters of Ceremony, delivering speeches, performing a short play, and singing. U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung praised their accomplishments, highlighting the program’s broader impact: “Programs like Access do more than teach English—they build leadership. These students are developing the communication skills, confidence, and global mindset that will help them succeed in any field they choose, from technology to public service. It’s about equipping the next generation with the tools they need to lead in Sri Lanka and beyond.”

The United States supports initiatives like Access because empowering young people through education and opportunity creates a world that is stronger, safer, and more prosperous—for both our nations and the global community.

The English Access Scholarship Program is a U.S. Department of State–funded global initiative that provides talented students from economically disadvantaged communities with free, two-year training in American English, leadership, and communication skills. In Sri Lanka, the program is implemented by local educators at five locations across the country and is funded through the U.S. Embassy in Colombo. Access not only strengthens students’ English proficiency, but also builds their confidence, civic awareness, and understanding of American culture and democratic values. Since its launch in Sri Lanka in 2004, the program has empowered over 1,300 youth island-wide.

Many Access graduates go on to pursue higher education, win competitive U.S. exchange scholarships, and enter careers in education, technology, business, and public service—playing leadership roles in both the public and private sectors. Access classes are led by experienced Sri Lankan English language professionals using interactive, student-centered teaching methods that emphasize real-world communication and personal development.