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Kampala, Uganda | PATRICIA AKANKWATSA | A wave of excitement is sweeping through Ugandan schools thanks to the “Njogera Francais” competition, which translates to “I Speak French” in Luganda. Spearheaded by the Alliance Française de Kampala (AFK), this strategic initiative aims not only to equip students with valuable language skills but also to cultivate a vibrant community of French enthusiasts.
“Njogera Francais aligns perfectly with the DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) framework,” explains Karim Cwinya’ay, Courses Coordinator at AFK.
DELF offers internationally recognized qualifications, providing students with a standardized measure of their French language proficiency across various skill levels.
The competition caters to a wide range of students, from eager primary school pupils to ambitious university undergraduates. By offering diverse categories for both individual and institutional participation, Njogera Francais fosters inclusivity and encourages students at all stages of their educational journey to engage with the French language.
The competition’s exciting prizes, including laptops, tablets, and cash awards, further fuel student enthusiasm and provide recognition for their linguistic achievements.
“Njogera Francais has demonstrably had a positive impact, stimulating a surge in Ugandan students’ interest in acquiring French language skills,” remarks Pauline Dinet, Head of Courses and French for Professionals Coordinator at AFK.
“The competition offers a valuable platform for students to not only test their abilities and gain recognition but also connect with a wider community of French language enthusiasts, fostering collaboration and promoting a sense of shared passion,”
The benefits of learning French extend far beyond the walls of the classroom.
“French language proficiency unlocks exciting opportunities for international education and diverse career paths,” emphasizes Eric Touzé, Director of the AFK.
“Moreover, learning French fosters cultural exchange and promotes deeper understanding between Uganda and the French-speaking world, enriching students’ lives and broadening their horizons,”
Now in its third year, the Njogera Francais competition has established a strong foundation for promoting French language learning in Uganda.
“We are constantly working to refine the competition and enhance its accessibility for students across the nation,” states Cwinya’ay.
“Our ultimate vision is to see French flourish as a preferred language of instruction in Ugandan schools, enriching the educational landscape and empowering students to thrive in a globalized world.”
Cwinya’ay further highlights the program’s expanding reach, stating, “We are looking to go upcountry this year, building on the success of last year, which saw the highest number of participants yet, with 1,098 students.”
The Njogera Francais competition flourishes thanks to the collaboration between the AFK and various partners, including CFAO, MTN Uganda, Total Energies, Lapaire, and the French Embassy. Together, they are proving to be a powerful force in igniting a passion for French language learning in Ugandan schools, offering students a valuable skillset and fostering a spirit of cultural exchange and global connection.
