'Choose France' initiative boosts education partnership

French envoy highlights increasing academic cooperation and student exchanges

ISLAMABAD:

French Ambassador to Pakistan, Nicolas Galey, stated on Friday that the partnership between Pakistan and France in higher education is gaining momentum, marked by increasing academic cooperation and student exchanges. This relationship, strengthened by the "Choose France" initiative, is paving the way for further collaboration between universities in both countries.

During a welcome event at the French residence, attended by Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister's Youth Programme, esteemed members of the Choose France delegation, and media representatives, Ambassador Galey highlighted the visit of a high-level academic delegation from France.

He noted that strengthening ties in higher education is a key objective in the bilateral roadmap for both nations. The Ambassador emphasised the timeliness of the event, coinciding with the conclusion of the 3rd edition of the Choose France Education Tour, which took place in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. The initiative aims to engage students through direct interactions with leading French universities and to foster collaboration between French and Pakistani institutions through personalized visits, laying the groundwork for long-term partnerships.

In the past two years, eight agreements have been signed between universities from both countries, resulting in active academic and research cooperation. These agreements are only the beginning, as efforts are underway to establish a double degree system that would enhance educational quality and create opportunities for joint participation in programs like Erasmus Mundus.

Ambassador Galey reported that this year's Choose France Education Tour garnered significant interest, with 2,200 Pakistani students attending education fairs and 22 bilateral university visits organized. The response from France has been positive, with 21 Pakistani representatives participating, up from just five in the inaugural edition two years ago. Such interactions are essential for fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the two nations.

He also expressed France's eagerness to welcome talented Pakistani students with clear academic goals. The increasing number of Pakistani students choosing France reflects a growing awareness of the opportunities available. Over the past three academic years, the number of Pakistani students accepted into French institutions has increased six fold, with many receiving scholarships to support their studies.

The Ambassador emphasised the importance of selecting French institutions that offer state-recognized degrees. Campus France Pakistan plays a vital role in guiding students and their families through the process of identifying suitable programs and universities. This year, the embassy expanded its support team, adding new personnel, including a dedicated staff member at the embassy and four Campus France officers in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, all alumni of French universities