This year marks the 86th anniversary of the British Council in Egypt, one of its earliest-established offices.

Since its inception, the British Council has been a leader in English language education and scholarship facilitation. With over 100 teachers, it educates over 40,000 students annually across five teaching centres. Its teacher training programmes span 27 governorates, including North Sinai, supporting over 100,000 public school English teachers and benefiting more than 5.5 million students.

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Global Perspectives on English
 

The latest report explores the global role of English in education, work, and society, building on prior research and arriving at a pivotal moment when English proficiency is increasingly essential for success in MENA and beyond.

Part of the British Council's global research initiative, this report follows The Future of English (1997) and English Next (2006) by David Graddol, which shaped discussions on language education. Drawing on roundtable discussions with policymakers and educators worldwide, The Future of English: Global Perspectives provides insights into evolving trends and future projections for English as a global language.

Regional Insights
 

The report offers distinct regional perspectives on the current state and future of English learning:

• Egypt and the Levant (Yemen, Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Iraq, Syria, Jordan): English is increasingly vital for economic mobility, but access to quality education remains uneven. Stakeholders stress the need to improve technological access and ensure equitable opportunities.
• Maghreb (Morocco, Tunisia, Libya): Demand for English is growing, driven by aspirations for better education and employment. In Morocco, many hope English will replace French, though not at the expense of other languages.
• The Gulf (Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar): English is viewed as a lingua franca, with the pandemic accelerating the shift towards flexible, tech-driven learning. Educators must prioritise digital literacy to meet this demand.

Transforming Language Education
 

The report highlights how technology is reshaping English learning. The British Council's adoption of digital tools ensures continued access to high-quality resources, even during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

A key recommendation is to rethink traditional teaching methods that overemphasise grammar and spelling. Instead, practical skills, such as speaking and listening, are called for to prepare learners for real-world success. Policymakers are urged to align language education with learners' evolving needs, focusing on workplace readiness and practical application.

Looking Ahead
 

"The British Council has been at the forefront of language education for 90 years. The Future of English research confirms the growing demand for English. As we look ahead, we remain committed to supporting learners and educators with innovative resources and research-driven insights," said Amir Ramzan, British Council MENA Regional Director.

The British Council invites educators, policymakers, and learners across MENA to engage with The Future of English: Global Perspectives findings and contribute to shaping the future of language education.