US Embassy launches “American Corner” at Matara Chamber of Industry and Commerce
View(s):The US Embassy signed a Memorandum of Understanding recently with the Matara Chamber of Industry and Commerce to open a new American Corner in Matara.
Ms. Nancy VanHorn, the U.S. Embassy’s acting Public Affairs Officer, and Metta Widanagamachchi, Chairman of the Chamber, signed the MoU.
Located on the ground floor of the Chamber’s building at No. 149 Hakmana Road in Matara, the American Corner will offer free programmes and training for the Southern Province’s residents. Programmes will include English classes, coding and computer skills, leadership and public speaking training, and a range of film screenings and cultural opportunities.
“The new American Corner represents the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to building our relationship with the people of the Southern Province,” said Ms. VanHorn. “Our free programmes will expand economic opportunity in the region and build ties between the United States and Sri Lanka.”
The American Corner follows the successful March 2018 launch of the US Embassy’s Information Hub (‘iHub”), which has attracted audiences of different ages and diverse backgrounds. Current programmes include public speaking and English. The iHub will continue operating until the new American Corner is opened in the coming months.