In 2007, the British Council organised its First English Policy Dialogue in Chennai and followed-up the next year in Kolkatta with the Second Policy Dialogue. The aim of the Policy Dialogues has been to provide stakeholders with a platform for sharing models of best practice, knowledge and experience. Further, it also provides an opportunity to discuss issues relating to policy and practice in English language learning and teaching. This year, the conversation will continue at the English for Progress: Third Policy Dialogue in New Delhi.

ENGLISH IN INDIA AND SRI LANKA: THE CONTEXT

Recent research in India and Sri Lanka indicates that, despite being home to sizable pool of English speaking population, the region is confronted with a massive language skill gap. This is indicated by the fact that demand for competent English speaking manpower continues to outstrip supply and that large portion of the graduate pool lacks English communicative fluency and interpersonal skills. This, in-turn, is limiting the ability of the industry and services sector to find professionals with skills required for modern-day working. (more…)