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50,000 Ugandan Students Set to Gain from New French Education Program
France has allocated €288,000 (UGX 1.1 billion) to enhance French language education in Uganda through the French Education Fund (FEF), a two-year initiative launched in May. The program is spearheaded by the French Embassy, Alliance Française de Kampala, and the Association of Teachers of French in Uganda.
The FEF aims to improve access to high-quality French education in Ugandan schools by training educators, promoting cultural exchange, and strengthening the presence of the French language in the country.
Eric Touze, Executive Director of Alliance Française de Kampala, emphasized the program’s focus on empowering teachers. “The idea is to train educators so they can, in turn, train their colleagues,” Touze explained.
Cyril Maman, Head of Cooperation and Cultural Affairs at the French Embassy, highlighted French as both a cultural asset and a development tool. “Mastering French unlocks a world of professional opportunities in francophone nations, fostering regional collaboration and cultural understanding,” he said.
Louise Bay, a representative of the FEF, acknowledged the rising demand for French education in Uganda but noted a gap in resources. “There are approximately 50,000 French learners in Uganda. For many, the language is a gateway to opportunities in trade, culture, and education within East Africa and beyond,” she said.
The project will provide teacher training, modern learning tools, and cultural activities to inspire students. Bay added that 20 secondary schools across Uganda will participate, with 15 schools set to receive awards for promoting French education.
Pauline Dinet, Head of Courses at Alliance Française de Kampala, revealed that four schools have already been visited, benefiting nearly 400 students—half of whom are girls, reflecting the initiative’s emphasis on inclusion and gender equality.
Agatha Tumwine, President of the Association of Teachers of French in Uganda, confirmed that all French teachers in the country will receive training under the program.
