Kampala, Uganda | PATRICIA AKANKWATSA | The highly anticipated second edition of the French Study and Job Fair commenced on Saturday at the Ecole Française Internationale de Kampala, presenting a myriad of promising prospects for Ugandan students and job seekers. Hosted by Alliance Française Kampala and esteemed partners, this event serves as a dynamic platform to bridge connections between participants and renowned French educational institutions and companies.
Eric Touze, the Director of Alliance Française Kampala, shared his enthusiasm, emphasizing the fair’s substantial value.
“This event serves as a comprehensive hub for Ugandans to explore French academic avenues and establish connections with leading French businesses,” he stated. “We are thrilled to facilitate this exchange and empower Ugandan youth.”
French Ambassador to Uganda, Xavier Sticker, underscored the significance of the fair in fortifying the educational and employment ties between France and Uganda.
“France deeply values its partnership with Uganda and recognizes the pivotal role of education and job creation,” he emphasized. “This fair exemplifies our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering collaboration between our nations.”
According to Oumou Diakite, the Deputy Head of the Africa unit at Campus France, France stands as the sixth country globally welcoming international students, with a goal of reaching 500,000 by 2027.
“We offer over 1,000 programs taught in English, and today presents an opportunity for students to choose from these options with representatives from seven universities present,” she noted. Furthermore, Diakite highlighted the fair’s aim to inform students that studying in France is possible without prior knowledge of the French language.
Thomas Pellitier, President of the French Kampala Business Association, emphasized the potential for economic growth and innovation through collaborative efforts.
“French businesses in Kampala recognize the talent and potential of the Ugandan workforce,” Pellitier remarked. “This fair acts as a bridge, connecting skilled individuals with employment opportunities across various sectors. It also presents an opportunity for students to engage directly with prospective French universities and employers.”
Pellitier added that learning the French language is a valuable asset, opening doors to work with French companies both regionally and globally.
“The fair offers a chance to discover available job opportunities and where to learn French, as our club members recruit daily and post all opportunities,” he noted.
The event features presentations from French universities, vocational training centers, and companies offering internships and job placements. Attendees can interact with representatives, gain insights into study programs, and explore career prospects in diverse fields.
“We are also offering internship opportunities, job interviews, CV writing sessions, and sample French classes at the fair,” added Pellitier.
The French Study and Job Fair exemplify the shared commitment of France and Uganda to fostering development and prosperity through collaborative initiatives in education and employment.
