The French government has launched the “Equip French Fund” (EFF), a €288,450 (Shs1 billion) initiative designed to enhance French language teaching in Uganda’s secondary schools.
The project was inaugurated at Alliance Francaise De Kampala (AFK), following a proposal by the French Embassy in Uganda.
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Implemented over two years by the French Embassy, AFK, and the Association of Professors of French in Uganda, the project focuses on improving teaching methodologies and fostering innovative approaches in French education.
During the launch, the French Ambassador to Uganda, Xavier Sticker, stressed the project’s significance in bolstering French education and reinforcing bilateral relations. “This program will enrich the educational experience for students and teachers, fostering connections between our countries,” Ambassador Sticker stated.
Eric Touzé, AFK director, detailed the project’s goals: enhancing French teaching practices and teacher training in Uganda. AFK will focus on three key areas:
- Training secondary school teachers in pedagogical methods.
- Training French teachers at AFK on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and DELF exams.
- Building a session adhering to CEFR standards, emphasizing gender issues and inclusivity.
“We will extend our efforts to the provinces, ensuring ongoing support. Additionally, we will produce podcasts and videos to monitor the project’s progress nationwide,” Touzé explained. He added, “Today’s trainees will become future trainers.”
The Association of Professors of French in Uganda will also enhance French teachers’ skills through training and organizing Francophile camps for students in five regions: West Nile, North, Central, West, and East. The association will develop audiovisual teaching resources tailored to the local context.
The launch event saw the participation of French teachers from various regions and other dignitaries.