In a poignant ceremony held in Bishkek, a new contingent of 26 Peace Corps volunteers pledged their commitment to service in Kyrgyzstan. With a shared goal of contributing positively to local communities, these volunteers are embarking on a two-year journey that aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and enhance educational opportunities across the country. The swearing-in ceremony was reported by the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan.
This marked the 29th group of Peace Corps volunteers to be stationed in Kyrgyzstan. Their primary responsibility will be teaching English in schools situated in the Chui, Naryn, Issyk-Kul, Talas, Osh, and Jalal-Abad regions. These volunteers will work closely with local educators and students to improve English proficiency, a vital skill for global communication and collaboration.
Reflecting on the enduring partnership between the two nations, Ambassador Lesslie Viguerie remarked;
"For 30 years now, Peace Corps volunteers and the communities they serve have worked closely together to improve student and teacher English proficiency. Together they build a long-term relationship that lasts for many years even after the end of the two-year volunteer service. This is a common contribution to friendship and understanding between the people of Kyrgyzstan and the United States."
Prior to taking their oath, the volunteers underwent an intensive 11-week training program. This training included learning the Kyrgyz language, acquiring pedagogical skills, and immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of Kyrgyz culture. To deepen their understanding of the nation's history and traditions, the volunteers also lived with local host families, providing them with firsthand insights into the daily lives of the communities they are now set to serve.
Rebecca Sharp, Peace Corps Regional Director for Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia, expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing collaboration between the Peace Corps and the Kyrgyz Republic.
"Since 1993, more than 1,300 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Kyrgyzstan. We look forward to many years of friendship and partnership with the people of the Kyrgyz Republic," she noted.
The Peace Corps, established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, has since been a beacon of international goodwill, facilitating exchanges that promote mutual understanding and cooperation between the United States and countries around the world. The volunteers' commitment to service and cultural exchange reflects the organization's enduring mission.
As these 26 volunteers set out on their transformative journey, they are poised to contribute to the growth and development of Kyrgyzstan's educational landscape while fostering lasting connections between the people of Kyrgyzstan and the United States.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Threads pages to keep up to date on world news.
Comments (0)