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KUWAIT: French language education has become a cornerstone of Kuwait’s academic landscape, with French now the third most taught language in the country’s schools, after Arabic and English. This strong presence of the French language in Kuwait’s education system was celebrated in a special reception marking the International Day of French Teachers and the closing of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Marking the International Day of French Teachers and the closing of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, French Ambassador to Kuwait Olivier Gauvin welcomed French teachers, personalities from the world of teaching and education, as well as representatives from the Kuwaiti Olympic Committee and the world of sport, notably the Kuwaiti Olympic and Paralympic teams.

In a statement, the embassy said the reception was an opportunity to celebrate the commitment of the 1,500 French teachers who work every day in Kuwait from public to private establishments, from primary schools to universities. Since its introduction into Kuwaiti schools in 1966, French has become a vital part of the nation’s educational offerings. The French department at Kuwait University, which enrolls over 300 students, serves as a key institution in promoting the French language and culture. This commitment is further evidenced by the growing number of French language learners across both public and private institutions, from primary schools to universities. Over 30,000 students learn the language annually, and approximately 10,000 students pursuing the French Baccalaureate.

In 2021, Kuwait further cemented its dedication to the Francophone world by establishing the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie in Kuwait. The council, which fosters dialogue and cultural exchange, is supported by His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Honorary President, whose unwavering support for the Francophonie has been widely acknowledged.

Strengthening ties

The ongoing cooperation between Kuwait and France in education is rooted in a close partnership with the Kuwaiti Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Research. A key milestone in this collaboration came in March 2022, when both countries signed a declaration of understanding aimed at enhancing educational ties and promoting the teaching of French.

As part of these efforts, on December 2, 2024, the French Embassy and the French Institute of Kuwait, in partnership with Kuwait’s foreign affairs ministry, France Éducation International, and the French Institute of Paris, organized a professional development session for French teachers in Kuwait. The session, dedicated to the use of authentic documents in French language teaching, reflects Kuwait and France’s commitment to improving teaching practices and innovating educational methods.

The reception at the French Residence also celebrated the remarkable achievements of Kuwaiti athletes and para-athletes who competed in the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Ambassador warmly acknowledged the participation of Khaled Al-Mudhaf and Mohammed Al-Daihani in shooting, Yousef Al-Shamlan in fencing, Mohammed Zubaid and Lara Dashti in swimming, Ameena Shah in sailing, Amal Al-Roumi in athletics, and Dhari Batti in shot put. A highlight of the event was the participation of Soaad Al-Faqaan in scull/rowing, marking her as the first Kuwaiti woman to compete in an Olympic nautical event, serving as an inspiration for young girls in Kuwait.

The ambassador extended his heartfelt congratulations to the two Kuwaiti medalists: Faysal Srour, who made history by winning Kuwait’s first-ever gold medal in the Paralympic Games in shot put (F53 category), and Faysal Al-Rajhi, who claimed the bronze in the 5000 meters wheelchair race (T54 category). These two outstanding para-athletes, along with their teammates, brought immense pride to Kuwait, embodying the values of determination and resilience. Their achievements have made them role models for the next generation of athletes in Kuwait.

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