Chasing Encounters

Farrah, a former fashion enthusiast, teaches us about her work in central Asia. She worked with local, foreign teachers and counsellors as part of academic (English, maths and science) upgrading programs for students in the region. The goal of these programs was to help students get stronger grades in language so they can perform better in the local labour market. Farrah explains how she supported students by involving them in cultural activities with music, dance, food, film and poetry, in this way anxiety is reduced and trust is built therefore sending the message that this was not only about the English language. We problematized why and how international organizations bring English language skills training programs to different places in international contexts and who these programs are for ultimately. * Bio Having served at consulting Program Manager for Aga Khan Education Services Tajikistan and Director of Academic Upgrading Programs for the University of Central Asia, I was privileged with the abilit