Since its foundation in 2013, Basma Association of English Language in Zagora (BAELZ) has committed itself to the enrichment of live languages in the area of Zagora. Each year, Basma wraps up its annual activities-rich program by the organization of the national English-language-promoting event “Students Got Talent”, which covers all the middle and high schools in the region of Zagora. Occurring on 26 and 27 of April, 2019, this years´ 5th edition of “Students Got Talent” is a unique one as it moves beyond the local level to the national level, bringing English learners from Marrakech, Ouarzazate. By joining the efforts and experiences of English language practitioners and in partnership with the Provincial Directorate of Education and Vocational Training, Basma brings together learners from several schools and different levels to partake in a variety of English language competitions, among which are: drama, educational film, public speaking, spelling bee, round-table topic discussions, drawing, reading and writing. Around 150 students are expected to showcase their talents and achievements in English on the stage of the cultural centre in Zagora in front of a large audience and a jury composed of highly-qualified English language instructors and Peace Corp members. Undeniably, among of the fruits of such activities are:
- Boosting and polishing the level of students in English.
- Building learners self-confidence and self-esteem, as they shall present their abilities in front of others.
- Enhancing and promoting the status of English in the school program and the curriculum.
- Carrying out the agenda of the Ministry of Education with respect to the enforcement of English as it is the language of science and the job market.
In a nutshell, BAELZ devotes itself to the creation of a competitive, motivational and friendly learning atmosphere among students. Basma is very enthusiastic about the teaching and learning of English language since that it has 1) encouraged talents in English from its onset, 2) brought together teachers of English in many occasions for the purpose of sharing expertise, discovering new teaching trends and discussing pedagogical perspectives and 3) delivering guidance and advice to novice teachers of English. At last, Basma is looking forward to organizing competitions in English on an international level.
The objectives of BAELZ are:
- Improve English in the region of Zagora and beyond,
- Promote a space for exchanging and sharing experiences among teachers, supervisors and stakeholders,
- Create opportunities of interaction and fair competition among students and learners of English.
- Discover and encourage talented students,
Written by Nacer Din Ouhni