In a groundbreaking move during his recent state visit to India, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed the launch of “Classes Internationales,” a special program designed for Indian students. This initiative aims to provide Indian high school graduates with a unique opportunity to learn French in France for a year before embarking on their chosen academic pursuits.
President Macron’s unveiling of the exclusive program for Indian students not only marks a significant milestone in educational cooperation but also reflects the deepening ties between India and France. The initiative, by President Macron aimed at nurturing linguistic proficiency and academic excellence, signifies a commitment to empowering the youth of India. As the program encompasses access to diverse fields, including sciences, humanities, arts, and specialized schools, it ensures that students can pursue their passion in a multitude of disciplines. Macron’s ambitious goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students to France by 2030 reinforces the commitment to fostering lasting educational partnerships.
Table of Contents
President Macron’s Announcement in Joint Statement
President Macron’s announcement was reflected in the joint statement endorsed by both him and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 26. The statement emphasized their commitment to supporting the initiative of establishing international classes. Commencing from September 2024, these classes will allow Indian students to receive instruction in French as a foreign language, along with methodology and academic content in esteemed French universities. This preparatory year is strategically positioned before students enter their selected curricula in France.
Classes Internationales: Bridging Educational Boundaries
The Classes Internationales program is intricately designed to facilitate access to France’s diverse and globally acclaimed educational offerings for India’s brightest high school graduates. Going beyond the limitations of English-taught programs, this initiative aims to open doors to a plethora of opportunities for Indian students.
Empowering Language Learners: A Foundation for Academic Pursuits
Regardless of their proficiency level in French, students are now eligible for admission to French-taught undergraduate programs in higher education institutions after successfully completing a foundational year of immersive language training. This not only caters to those already familiar with the French language but also welcomes complete beginners.
Presidential Commitment: Macron’s Vision for Indian Students
During his visit to the Amber Fort in Rajasthan, President Macron engaged with Indian students from various institutions, including Alliance Française de Jaipur, the French departments of Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and alumni who have returned from France after graduation. The President underscored France’s commitment to providing more opportunities for Indian students through initiatives like Classes Internationales, the introduction of a 5-year short-stay Schengen visa for alumni, and the notable fact that India is now the largest beneficiary of French academic scholarships.
President Macron expressed a visionary goal, stating, “We want to welcome 30,000 Indian students to France by 2030.” He added that achieving this milestone would bring him immense satisfaction, proclaiming, “I would be the happiest President.”
Key Features of the New Program:
The exclusive program for Indian students by France encompasses various key features, including access to world-renowned French higher education institutions across diverse fields such as universities, grandes écoles, engineering, management, sciences, humanities, arts, and specialized schools. Furthermore, the program includes immersion in French culture and language, with tailored French language classes aligned with the field of study chosen by the student. Preparatory courses in the chosen field further enhance the student’s preparedness for academic success.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement of the exclusive program for Indian students marks a paradigm shift in educational opportunities for the youth of India. This transformative initiative not only emphasizes linguistic empowerment but also opens doors to a diverse range of academic pursuits in one of the world’s leading educational hubs. As India and France strengthen their educational ties, the Classes Internationales program stands as a testament to the collaborative vision for a brighter future for Indian students. The program’s comprehensive approach and Macron’s commitment to welcoming a substantial number of Indian students to France by 2030 herald a new era of educational cooperation between the two nations.