The current role and status of the teaching of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) in Venezuela is discussed, and it is maintained that, in addition to being necessary as a medium for information exchange with the technically advanced countries, English has also assumed an important role in communications between Venezuela and other developing nations. The Venezuelan educational system is briefly described, and the role of English in the system is explained at the pre-school, basic, middle diversified, and higher educational levels. The training of ESL teachers in Venezuela is also described at the various levels of teacher preparation, including such topics as in-service training and postgraduate level training; the teaching of English literature; and materials support, including availability of materials, educational texts, and other resources. Educational administration is discussed as it relates to the teaching of ESL, and the future of English within the Venezuelan educational system is described. The teaching of ESL outside the educational system, in both private schools and in language schools, is described, and British and American support organizations for the teaching of ESL are listed. The role of creative writing is also discussed. Current research initiatives are cited, and a short bibliography is provided. (DJD)