C5+ONE (Opening Networks through English)

Funded by: The Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs of the U.S. Department of State 

OVERVIEW 

The C5+O.N.E. program (Opening Networks through English) is a regional English language training initiative that targets early- to mid-career leaders from the public, private, and civil society sectors in Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The current program cycle is centered on “English for the Economy,” engaging participants working across a broad range of economic sectors. The program is specifically tailored to enhance the English language skills of professionals in these fields and strengthen their capacity for regional and international engagement. Through this initiative, we are not just teaching a language; we are building bridges that connect nations and open doors to greater collaboration and shared prosperity. 

GOALS 

The main objective of the C5+O.N.E. program is to build a network of young professionals across Central Asia who possess strong English language skills and are working in business, government, non-profit, and media sectors across various areas of the economy. The program focuses on improving spoken English to help participants succeed in professional settings and engage effectively with regional and international partners. C5+O.N.E. aims to strengthen regional connectivity by fostering a cohesive network of English-speaking professionals and creating meaningful links between emerging leaders in Central Asia and their American peers. By enhancing participants’ communication skills, the program helps open doors to enhanced regional connectivity and stronger partnerships. 

PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION 

C5+O.N.E. is administered by the American Councils for International Education, which provides a standardized English language curriculum throughout the region. Each participant will receive three semesters of language programming for a total of 180 hours,including 160 hours of classic in-person English language instruction and 20 hours of supplemental programming, with an emphasis onspeaking skills. We recognize the importance of effective oral communication, and our curriculum is strategically designed toenhance participants' speaking abilities. It is also focused on developing listening, reading, and writing skills relevant to various sectorsof the economy, so that participants can better engage in international dialogs and collaborations. 

ADDITIONAL NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES 

In addition to language classes, C5+O.N.E. offers a series of national and regional workshops and conferences. These activitiesprovide a platform for participants to expand their professional networks, strengthen regional connections and gain access to new information and opportunities. The events also facilitate exchanges between participants and leaders from different sectors andencourage collaboration and sharing of best practices.