International Education Matters

A Forum for Issues Pertaining to
Intensive English Programs

Statement by Karen Hughes
Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs
July 2005

I have a special message for young people across the world: we're improving our visa process, and we want you to come and study in America.

We know education is the path to upward mobility and greater opportunity... Americans must educate ourselves to be better citizens of our world -- learning different languages and learning more about other countries and cultures. And through English language training programs, we can give young people a valuable tool that helps them improve their own lives and learn more about our values.

After thoughtful and thorough analysis, now is the time for action and implementation... We must develop effective ways to marshal the great creativity of our private sector. American companies, universities, private foundations, our travel industry all have extensive contact with people throughout the world. Our music and film industries, artists and entertainers create powerful impressions -- sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always powerful.

Karen Hughes,
Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs

This file was updated on September 17, 2005