Maintenance and Operation of English Language and Computer Learning Centers

The Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan, is pleased to announce an open competition for eligible organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to maintain and operate nine English Language and Computer Learning Centers (ELCLC). This program will also include funding to establish and operate two new centers. ELCLCs are computer and language learning centers that have been established at public universities throughout Afghanistan. ELCLCs help Afghan university students and faculty improve their English proficiency through open-access and instructor-led courses using the latest off-the-shelf and tailored software, curricula, and web-based resources. The centers also help advance computer competencies for university students and staff through their computer training courses. ELCLCs offer on- and off-line English teaching resources, free internet access, computer work stations, and an area for conducting small programs. The centers also provide learner-centered English language teaching augmented by computer-assisted language learning software applications, as well as certification using the internationally recognized International Computer Driver’s License (ICDL) training program. The heart of an ELCLC is its commitment to provide up-to-date English language programs open to various university audiences, depending on individual university policies and priorities as determined by chancellors or other designated university officials. In some locations, the ELCLC is the only place where non-traditional English and IT training sessions and workshops can take place due to infrastructure challenges.