The Open Society Institute's English Language Programs primarily comprise two separate initiatives that work closely together and complement each other. The Soros English Language Program (SELP), financed by the Soros foundations in individual countries, provides English language support for the specific needs of the country. The Soros Professional English Language Teaching (SPELT) program sponsors English as a foreign language (EFL) specialists and provides teacher training at secondary and tertiary levels.

Both programs are designed to help prepare individuals and groups for a world in which English has increasingly become a necessary language for international communication in professional and academic fields. Among other things, SELP supports various foundation programs, establishes and provides short-term support for English/foreign language schools in the areas of both language learning and teacher training, and promotes teachers' associations. SPELT focuses on EFL teacher development, encourages curriculum reform and fosters new trends in large-scale foreign language teacher development (e.g. mentoring).

Both programs also work to promote social inclusion. To this end, SELP and SPELT endeavor to provide access to their diverse projects to all segments of society throughout the countries of the Soros foundation network.

From Moldova to Tajikistan, from Haiti to Mongolia, the OSI English Language Programs have been there for EFL teachers and students striving to learn the language, all often struggling with the lack of resources and often mired in an inflexible curriculum. Teachers committed to their profession have found encouragement for their vision and support for their efforts to become part of the international professional community. Young professionals and students have benefited from efforts to increase their access to materials and courses which focus on their language learning and professional development needs. Teachers help prepare themselves for the challenges of the new millennium through training and practice that encourage:

• integration of technology in the curriculum;
• distance education;
• self-development (professional and personal);
• fostering free expression; and
• a student-centered curriculum.

Read a comprehensive strategy document for the English Language Programs.

In 2004, the program continued its scheduled process of concluding or spinning off its activities as independent organizations.

Read more about English Language Programs 2004 activities.