The United States, through its consulate, sponsored the freshly launched University Horizons Extension Program for learning English in Limón Province.

According to the embassy, the initiative is being developed in collaboration with the Foundation for Sustainability and Equity (Aliarse) to assist 20 students from the Limón Mario Bourne High School and 20 students from the Shiroles Indigenous School with the English learning program.

The overall cost of this educational program is $197,000, of which the Embassy's Public Diplomacy Section will fund $167,000.

"This inauguration is more than just a ceremony," said U.S. Ambassador Cynthia Telles. "This is a promise of hope, a symbol of dedication and a commitment to shaping the future of Limon's youth."

The program will last two years, during which time students will have to attend English classes twice a week. Among other things, they will receive an intensive English course, academic guidance, leadership development, college preparation seminars, mentorship, and instruction on U.S. culture.

The program's major goal is to foster these students into community leaders by providing them with academic resources, English language skills, and leadership development that encourages them to continue their university studies, according to the U.S. embassy's statement.

English language skills, academic achievement, college acceptance rates, leadership activities, and community involvement will all be evaluated as part of the curriculum.

This English language course is one of many initiatives offered by the embassy to public school students. Recently, The embassy donated $25,000 in new desks and kitchen appliances to a public school in Alajuela Province.

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