The Hudson Valley was one of three regions chosen for a state pilot program to provide free English-language training using mobile phones, according to an announcement by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo.
Participants in the program ”“ which is meant for immigrants who don”™t have regular access to the Internet, a computer or classroom learning ”“ will call a number on their cellphone to receive audio lessons as well as training via text.
Language barriers were identified as one of the most important challenges within the farming community at a state Yogurt Summit in 2013. The purpose of the program, according to a statement from the governor”™s office, is to “strengthen” the state”™s foodshed and grow the agricultural industry.
The state has partnered with Cell-Ed, a company that previously ran a two-year pilot program in Los Angeles on the idea of learning using cellphones.
