French govt’s educational initiative for foreigners ends

Islamabad:The third edition of the French government’s educational initiative for foreign students, Choose France, has successfully wrapped up here, highlighting the increasing opportunities for Pakistanis to study in France.

The event, organised by the French Embassy, featured a media talk by French Ambassador Nicolas Galey and chairman of the Prime Minister's Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan. It was meant to highlight the increasing opportunities for Pakistani students to study in France and the pivotal role of Campus France Pakistan in guiding them through the process.

Rana Mashhood praised the collaboration with France in the higher education sector and emphasised that youth empowerment was a key component of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s policies. Ambassador Galey noted that Choose France had been instrumental in facilitating enrolment for Pakistani students in top-ranking French universities.

He also mentioned ongoing discussions about launching dual degree programs between Pakistani and French institutions. The initiative was not limited to Islamabad; it also took place in Karachi and Lahore, where study fairs attracted around 2,200 students.

The fairs resulted in the signing of four cooperation agreements, with additional agreements under consideration, and provided an opportunity for 21 delegates from French universities to experience Pakistan’s vibrant culture. The number of Pakistani students heading to France has increased six fold over the last three years. For official guidance and information on studying in France, students are encouraged to follow Campus France Pakistan. During the event, a panel discussion was held featuring Choose France officials, two representatives from French universities, and two alumni, who highlighted that students can access authentic, free information about studying in France and the visa process through the Choose France initiative.