By Nnasom David

Students and education stakeholders gathered at the University of Abuja on May 2, 2026, for the fourth edition of “French Up Your Career,” an initiative organised by the French Embassy in Nigeria to promote the role of the French language in academic and professional development.

The event, held under the “Bilingual and Competitive” FEF Project, drew about 350 students from institutions including Nasarawa State University, Kaduna State University and Veritas University, with a focus on the relevance of French to employability, international mobility and regional engagement.

In her opening remarks, Professor Madu Amuche Uzoamaka, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, said multilingual education is becoming increasingly important.

“Language is no longer just a cultural asset; it is a professional necessity in today’s interconnected world,” she said.

Professor Mufutau Tijani, Head of the Department of Linguistics and African Languages, added that “students who invest in additional languages, particularly French, are better positioned to compete globally.”

Magaly Losange, French Language Cooperation Attaché at the embassy, said the initiative aims to equip Nigerian students with practical skills.

“Through this programme, we are not only promoting French but also equipping Nigerian students with tools that enhance their competitiveness in both regional and international spaces,” she stated.

Participants were introduced to digital learning tools during a session led by Eric Koufedji, Director of Maison TV5 Monde, who demonstrated resources designed to support language acquisition.

This was followed by a presentation on internationally recognised certifications, including DELF, delivered by Losange alongside Sterenn Pfannstiel of the French Institute.

“Certifications like DELF provide measurable proof of proficiency that is recognised worldwide,” Pfannstiel explained.

Kete Gillis-Harry of the ECOWAS Commission spoke on the role of multilingualism in regional institutions, noting that “French is not optional in many international organisations; it is essential for collaboration, diplomacy, and career progression.”

Students also received information on academic opportunities abroad from Stephanie Douanla, Director of Campus France Abuja, who said, “France offers a wide range of scholarships and programmes tailored to international students, and proficiency in French significantly improves access to these opportunities.”

The programme ended with a panel discussion featuring professionals from different sectors who shared their experiences and how knowledge of French contributed to their careers.

Organisers acknowledged the role of the University French Teachers Association of Nigeria in mobilising participating institutions, noting its contribution to the promotion of French language education across the country.