Ambassador April H. Foley

Mayor Gulyás, Dr. Dobrev, Mr. Wágner, and other distinguished guests:

Thank you for the invitation to visit your community in this beautiful part of Hungary. 

I want to learn more about your activities in two areas of critical interest to the United States:

• education
• and minority integration.  

First, education. The e-learning curriculum that you have adopted is a great success story. You have taken just a little seed money - combined with a lot of creative thinking and personal dedication - and made long-lasting changes in the lives of your children. We are proud that USAID supported this program. Education is a high priority for us too. 

It is especially rewarding to see that this innovative program has been introduced in a school where over half of the students are Roma. We all know that a strong education is key to breaking down the barriers to integration.

You have opened up a world of new opportunities for the students. You have created an enthusiasm for learning - with the added bonus of computer skills! As these students continue their education, they can build on the solid foundation that you have given them.  

You have also established a solid foundation for your entire community. 

The intense cooperation between the school and the local government, and between Roma and non-Roma, is extremely positive. It will break down barriers to advancement. 

I know Borsodbóta is a small town. But you clearly have a sense of dedication to the community and respect for each other. I hope this will serve as a model for other towns that want a better education for their children and integration for all. 

I congratulate you for your successes. I look forward to hearing more about your initiatives - today and in the future.

Köszönöm szépen.