British Council chief executive visits Jordan

AMMAN — Scott McDonald visited Jordan for the first time as chief executive of the British Council from June 5 until June 7. 

The visit reflects the British Council’s efforts to build connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and the English language. 

Scott started his two-day visit by meeting with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, emphasising the council’s partnership with Jordan, the occupied Palestinian territories and Lebanon, according to a British Council statement. 

British Council and UNRWA signed a partnership agreement, which aims to strengthen the existing areas of work in providing refugees access to educational and professional opportunities, along with facilitating development programmes for teachers and education specialists to enrich their skills and knowledge of the English language.

Scott also visited the British Council’s office in Jordan where he met with staff to see how Jordan has adapted to working in the post-pandemic period. 

He was also briefed on how the cultural engagement projects and English-language instruction have been delivered virtually during this period. 

Scott also met with a diverse range of British Council partners and beneficiaries. He had the opportunity to talk to inspiring young people, entrepreneurs, scholars, UK alumni, Newton Khalidi Researcher Links Partners, artists and community leaders.

McDonald said, “The British Council in Jordan has been open since 1948 and has a long history of building trust between the UK and Jordan.” 

“Despite the challenges of the pandemic, it is wonderful to see the resilience showcased by our staff members and that we are still able to connect with millions of students, educators, academics, creatives and entrepreneurs as we build links with the UK,” he said. 

He added: “I’ve had the opportunity to see our work in Jordan that is providing opportunities for young people, supporting them to achieve the education, qualifications and skills needed to reach their potential.”