Cambridge University recognizes Centre of Excellence
The Cambridge English Language Assessment, an entity of the University of Cambridge, has recognised the outstanding effort and contribution made by the Aga Khan Education Service, India (AKES, I) in the area of English language proficiency.
Among the 50,000 preparation centres across the world, AKES, I has been selected as one of the top 50 organisations in South Asia. Award-winning preparation centres are required to exhibit an exemplary standard in their commitment to students, parents, and teachers, as well as an innovative approach towards the utilisation of digital technology.
“It is a proud moment to be recognised for this award, which is a testament to our commitment towards enhancing the quality of English language teaching,” said Ms. Aliza Ratansi, English Language Consultant at AKES, I. Since 1913, the Cambridge Preparation Centre has recognised the efforts of schools and institutions all over the world for their valuable contributions in preparing students for the Cambridge English exams.
To strengthen English language proficiency, AKES, I has invested heavily in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) of teachers. The CPD training that teachers receive includes a Master Training Workshop conducted by a Cambridge Trainer, and an English Methodology Training conducted by English consultant, Ms. Aliza Ratansi. The knowledge and skills acquired from this professional development manifest in enhanced teaching pedagogy practices, which in turn, helps to create a conducive language learning environment for students.
The Cambridge English Language Assessment is part of the Cambridge English Intervention - a five-year plan for the English language development of teachers (2015- 2020). In 2017 alone, over 340 Aga Khan School teachers and leaders across the country have taken the Cambridge English Examinations. It is expected that over 350 teachers and leaders will be participating in the examination in 2018. Ms. Asha Joseph, an English teacher from the Diamond Jubilee High School, Hyderabad says, “the Cambridge English intervention is helping teachers improve their language skills by building on their previous knowledge of English language. You can already see the improvements in the students speaking, reading and writing skills.”
During the ground-breaking of the international
Academic Centre of Excellence in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (17 March 2005), His Highness the Aga Khan highlighted the importance of the English language by saying, “teaching in the English language was essential because it had become the global language of diplomacy, education, transport, science, commerce, and medicine.”
The Preparation Centre of Excellence Award is indeed a celebration of the efforts by the teachers and master trainers at AKES, I and their commitment to strengthening English proficiency.
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