Pakistan-France Higher Education Partnership Gains Momentum with “Choose France” Initiative
— October 18, 2024
ISLAMABAD ( AIA) Nicolas Galey, the French Ambassador to Pakistan, highlighted the strengthening partnership between Pakistan and France in higher education, noting an increase in academic cooperation and student exchanges. Speaking at a gathering at the French residence on Friday, Galey emphasised that the “Choose France” initiative is playing a crucial role in fostering collaboration between universities in both nations.
Welcoming Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, along with esteemed members of the “Choose France” delegation and media representatives, the ambassador marked the visit of a high-level academic delegation from France. “We are here to celebrate the achievements and ongoing efforts in educational cooperation between France and Pakistan,” he stated.
Ambassador Galey underscored that strengthening higher education ties is a key priority in the bilateral roadmap between Pakistan and France. The occasion was particularly timely, coming at the conclusion of the 3rd edition of the “Choose France Education Tour” in Pakistan, which took place in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
The “Choose France” initiative, according to Galey, serves two main purposes: providing Pakistani students with direct engagement opportunities with leading French universities and fostering collaboration between universities from both countries through tailored visits. This initiative lays the foundation for long-term partnerships in education.
Over the past two years, eight agreements between Pakistani and French universities have been signed, resulting in active academic and research collaborations. The ambassador expressed hope for further progress, particularly in the establishment of a double-degree system, which would enhance educational quality and create opportunities for participation in joint programmes like Erasmus Mundus.
This year’s edition of the “Choose France Education Tour” saw significant interest, with 2,200 Pakistani students attending education fairs and 22 bilateral university visits organised. The growing response from France was equally notable, with 21 Pakistani representatives participating, compared to just five universities during the first edition two years ago.
Ambassador Galey also highlighted the increasing number of Pakistani students opting for France as a study destination. Over the past three academic years, the number of Pakistani students accepted into French institutions has increased sixfold, with many receiving scholarships. Most of these students pursue courses in English, demonstrating growing awareness of the opportunities available in France.
He stressed the importance of Pakistani students choosing institutions that offer state-recognised degrees. Campus France Pakistan, the official organisation assisting students in their educational journeys, provides free guidance to help students and families make informed decisions about suitable programmes and universities. The French embassy has also expanded its support network, with new personnel added, including a dedicated staff member at the embassy and four Campus France officers across Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, all of whom are alumni of French universities.
Galey attributed the success of these initiatives to the support of the Prime Minister’s Office, the governments of Punjab and Sindh, the Higher Education Commission, and various Pakistani universities. He commented that their contributions have brought the academic communities of Pakistan and France closer together. He concluded by inviting guest speakers to share insights on the cooperation between the two countries and its long-term impact on society.