300 Fulbright scholars to increase English competency

(Bernama) – WASHINGTON: About 300 Fulbright scholars from United States will teach voluntarily at selected schools in Malaysia to enhance competency in English beginning next year, said Deputy Prime Minister.

Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who is also Education Minister, said the initiative would be implemented under the Fulbright English Teaching System.

Muhyiddin said in a meeting with US senior administration officials, he was told that 50 participants would initially be sent to Malaysia beginning next year.

He told reporters on Tuesday that the Fulbright programme would include the teaching of English in a fun and innovative manner.

“We will come up with lessons that are fun and in addition to other existing programmes so that students will be more interested to speak and interact in English,” he said.

The Fulbright programme, added Muhyiddin, would not see any change to the schools’ current time-table.

The ministry, he said, would also choose the schools for the placement.

“Before they are placed, the participants will be given an orientation course lasting a few weeks on our culture and traditions,” he said.

He said a Memorandum of Understanding was expected to be inked between Malaysia and US before the end of the year on the scope and terms of reference for the implementation of the Fulbright programme. – BERNAMA