The Language Division of IDFR conducted the second series of the above course in ‘Practical English Skills for the Implementer Group Officers, Wisma Putra’ from 28 until 30 June 2013 (Friday - Sunday) at the Puteri Resort Ayer Keroh Melaka. The course was attended by twenty four participants.
The first of the above series was held at the same place for forty one participants from 21 until 23 June 2013.
For both the series the participants were from the following Divisions : Protocol, Consular, Security from IDFR, SEARCCT and MFA.
The aim of the course was to address the needs of the front-line staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and that basically was to inculcate listening, understanding and speaking in the English Language. It is hoped that this course would develop a greater interest to use the language and build on the confidence and basic proficiency through practical and fun activities.
Among the topics covered over the three days were 'Essential Functions for Conversations’ like 'Formal and Informal Introductions’ , ‘Formal and Informal Greetings and Goodbyes’, ‘Asking Questions’, ‘Pronunciation‘, ‘ Telephone Skills’ and general socializing skills. Simulation activities and language games were some of the strategies employed.
The response from course participants was very positive and many wished to attend similar courses in future.
Reported by : Joyce Abraham
Language Division
