The An Phu Correctional Facility in Saigon has become the unlikely epicenter of English language improvement, thanks to a peculiar initiative involving native-speaking teacher ‘volunteers’ from schools like AMG, some of whom are currently detained for minor drug-related charges. These educators are now dishing out lessons on the Queen’s English instead of the Queen’s hash.
“The English Underground,” group of inmates enrich each other’s lives despite their vastly different circumstances. With every “How are you?” and “What’s up?” presented in a faux-enthusiastic American accent by a 30-something expatriate arrested for possessing a small amount of weed, inmates are discovering a new world of self-expression. “I used to think English was just for tourists,” stated one inmate, now proficient in conversational phrases. “But now I’m debating Shakespeare like I’m back in college, and I taught teacher Rachel how to make a shiv out of soap.”
The Ministry of Prisons has announced plans to increase the English teacher-to-inmate ratio, with the intention of allowing every inmate to engage in daily conversation with their instructor. This approach aims to better prepare those incarcerated for a post-prison life enriched by the ability to express themselves clearly and quite possibly order food at an American diner.
The Ministry is planning to implement random drug testing on the streets, reminiscent of New York City’s past stop-and-frisk policies. “The plan could clean up Bui Vien so it is more like Times Square, maybe even have a TGI Fridays,” enthused a policy analyst. If drug use can be contained on the streets, perhaps it may lead to cleaner prisons that double as language-learning hubs. “Imagine walking down the streets and seeing ‘English Practice Zones’ marked by friendly officers: ‘Step right up! Would you like to order a cheeseburger in English today?”
With this freshly minted English proficiency, inmates are gaining confidence, pulling off conversational finesse that could rival many of Saigon’s local baristas. As they exchange pleasantries and idioms, they are inadvertently preparing for a post-prison life where they can participate in the global economy—as teachers of the English language themselves. An Phu is not just a correctional facility; it’s a classroom full of opportunity.