From fear to fluency

Saiful Islam, CEO, English Therapy

Saiful Islam, an author and Founder & CEO of an English teaching platform named "English Therapy", has spent the past eight years helping thousands of learners become fluent in English.

The Daily Star (TDS): As the CEO of English Therapy, where do you see English proficiency playing the biggest role for students aiming to study abroad?

Saiful Islam (SI): I saw so many talented people held back simply because they could not express themselves confidently in English. Our education system puts heavy emphasis on written exams, but little on real-world speaking or listening. Students can memorise vocabulary, yet freeze in conversation. That is why I founded English Therapy to create a practical, enjoyable alternative to traditional coaching. For those going abroad, proficiency matters most in English-speaking countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Beyond just academics, it is crucial for business, law, and even STEM fields, where clear technical communication is key.

"Confidence in English is not about passing a test. It is about being able to stand anywhere in the world and make your voice heard."

TDS: What do you find are the most common weaknesses, and how does English Therapy address them?

SI: Speaking is by far the weakest skill for most learners. It's a mix of fear, lack of practice, and the influence of the mother tongue. Listening is another major hurdle, especially when faced with unfamiliar accents. Students may know grammar rules or score well on paper, but when it comes to real-time interaction, confidence crumbles. At English Therapy, we counter this with immersive methods — mock lectures, debates, personalised learning plans, and digital practice tools. For those heading overseas, we also provide cultural orientation so they are not lost when facing everyday conversations or academic settings.

TDS: Your work seems to go beyond just test prep. What is your bigger vision?

SI: Admission is only the first step. Many students discover the real challenge starts once classes begin: writing papers, joining discussions, adjusting to different teaching styles, and even making friends in a new culture. Our mission is not only to get them through exams but to build lifelong communication skills. We want them to thrive in any global environment, whether in the classroom, workplace, or everyday life.