Meanwhile, Latinas born abroad are often condemned to low-paying jobs by an even skimpier education or a poor knowledge of English.

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Pertierra said a 1986 federal law supplies precedent to require completion of a civics component -- such as basic knowledge of English and U.S. history and government -- to grant permanent resident status.

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In a region with shocking levels of unemployment and lots of young people, knowledge of English means the power to get a better job, or perhaps to emigrate.

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The candidates should be fluent in English, a good knowledge of either Russian or Uzbek would be an asset.

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However, it is not clear how this new system will ensure a breadth of knowledge and skills and that pupils continue studying English and maths until age 18.

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English certainly helps forge strong bonds across cultures, but knowledge of the local language makes a global workforce more nimble and productive, and therefore more competitive.

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