Access Academy
The Access Academy is a year-long pre-undergraduate program that prepares students from underprivileged communities for a rigorous university education. The first Access Academy class of 125 students has been welcomed in March 2008, and will graduate the program in time to join the first class of undergraduates of the Asian University for Women in September 2009. The Academy addresses the various needs of students in terms of academic preparation, social and cultural adjustment, youth mentorship, counseling, technological skills, and recreation. Through these comprehensive efforts, the Access Academy encourages young women to be assertive, confident, and culturally sensitive.
Students admitted into the Academy are selected through AUW’s admissions program and identified as young women who demonstrate exceptional potential, talent and intellect but who would benefit from additional coursework prior to commencing their undergraduate studies. Successful completion of the Access Academy coursework will lead to admission to the Asian University for Women undergraduate program.
curriculum
The Access Academy program focuses on providing content-oriented English language studies, with a significant emphasis on writing and verbal expression, mathematics and quantitative reasoning, and computer skills training. There is an emphasis on developing critical thinking skills throughout the curriculum. Students are assigned to course levels in English and mathematics based on the results of their entrance exams. Courses in mathematics include a focus on statistics, taught in a problem-solving manner. Courses in English are designed to integrate the four skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and are led by qualified teachers who are mostly native speakers of English. Students from outside of Bangladesh have the opportunity to receive Bengali language instruction.
Access Academy students also have the chance to participate in more creative pursuits such as art, music, and dance. They take physical education classes, which include self-defense, aerobics, yoga, and the use of fitness machines. They also receive guidance and instruction in health and nutrition.
Outside of class there are opportunities for students to participate in and lead various activities. These include a Journalism Club, a Debate Club, Art and Photography Club, and Sustainability Club. Additional educational and entertainment events as well as field trips are scheduled throughout the year.
Teachers
Teachers at the Access Academy come from the United States, Canada, and Australia. This diverse, enthusiastic and energetic team of qualified university graduates have been identified, recruited and trained by our partner, WorldTeach: a non-profit affiliated with the Center for International Development at Harvard University. WorldTeach will also work closely with our academic leadership to recruit, select, and train additional teachers.
Facilities
The Access Academy is currently based in leased facilities in the city of Chittagong, in a 75,000 sq. ft. building complex that includes academic and residential spaces for students as well as teachers. The complex includes a library dining area, computer lab, and gym/exercise facilities. Located in the heart of urban Chittagong, the building is about 15 minutes away from the permanent site of the Asian University for Women at Bayezid Bostami.
