A new project on mass learning of the English language "#Kyiv will speak English" is starting in Kyiv. During 2018, 10,000 Kyiv residents will be able to learn English for free using the innovative blended learning method. This was stated by the Mayor of Kyiv Vitaliy Klitschko during the signing of the agreement between KMDA and the Association of Innovative and Digital Education regarding the start of the project on learning English.
The mayor noted that according to experts, the average level of English proficiency among residents of European capitals is not lower than 50%, and in the capitals of Scandinavian countries - 70%. In Ukraine, only 7% citizens know English at an adequate level.
"Millions of guests come to Kyiv every year. Kyiv has a huge tourist potential. Our task is to increase it. And knowledge of English will help in this," Vitaliy Klitschko emphasized.
He recalled that in 2015 the KMDA launched Capital English free English language courses for all willing citizens of Kyiv. Subsequently, the capital authorities initiated and implemented Capital English for Police courses for Service 102, capital patrol officers, for border guards at Boryspil and Kyiv (Zhulyany) airports. They completed a free course of learning English according to the highest international standards.
"And we continue the implementation of English language learning programs for Kyiv residents. Today we are launching a new massive learning project. We are signing the Agreement between the KMDA and the Association of Innovative and Digital Education regarding the start of the project "#Kyiv will speak English", noted Vitaliy Klychko.
The mayor of Kyiv noted that the project "#KyivSpeakEnglish" became one of the winners among the projects that were submitted for consideration by the Public Budget of the capital. In total, more than 800 projects were submitted.
"Thanks to the implementation of this project, during 2018, 10 thousand Kyivans will be able to learn English for free using the innovative blended learning method. The method was developed by the team of the "Lingva.Skills" social project for learning foreign languages. Special attention will also be paid to the training of employees of Kyiv city and district state administrations and communal enterprises," noted Vitaliy Klychko.
The mayor noted that the capital's officials' knowledge of the language at an appropriate level will allow to increase communication with foreign partners and potential investors. And this, in turn, will increase both the investment and tourism potential of Kyiv.