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The Hindu
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
An initiative to bring French literature closer to Keralites
In a vibrant celebration of cultural and literary exchange, the French Institute in India and DC Books jointly launched the 'Pardon My French!' bookshelf at DC Books here on Thursday evening. The initiative aims at bringing French literature closer to Indian readers through curated translations and accessible editions. The launch featured a conversation between Shashi Tharoor, author and MP, and Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India. The duo explored the rich tapestry of French and Indian literary traditions and the lasting influence of French story-telling on Indian readers. Cultural commonalities Dr. Tharoor highlighted the role of Victor Hugo in making French literature accessible in India. He emphasised the value of literary exchange in broadening perspectives and nurturing creativity. He also spoke about the cultural commonalities between India and France, particularly the value both societies placed on intellectual discussion and community forums. 'In India, we have traditions like the Malayali 'chayakkada' and Bengali 'adda'— spaces where people come together to discuss everything from politics to poetry. France too has a strong café culture that fosters similar democratic dialogue,' Dr. Tharoor said, drawing parallels that resonated with the audience. Ambassador Mathou expressed optimism that the 'Pardon My French!' initiative would ignite curiosity about French literature among Indian readers, particularly the youth. 'Literature is a powerful bridge between cultures. These stories help us understand each other better,' he said. International understanding Several school students in the audience asked the speakers questions on the influence of literature on diplomacy and how cultural exchange shaped international understanding. In reply, both Dr. Tharoor and Dr. Mathou stressed the role of literature in building empathy and global citizenship. The 'Pardon My French!' bookshelf features a diverse selection of French classics and contemporary works, translated into English and Indian languages.
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Business Standard
13-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Madhya Pradesh, France sign PoU to boost cultural, tourism ties for 3 years
A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Madhya Pradesh, France and a French language institute here on Friday to strengthen long-term cooperation in the field of culture and tourism. This will make Madhya Pradesh a new centre of cultural and tourism cooperation between India and France, an official said. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and French Ambassador to India Dr Thierry Mathou hailed the agreement and said it will further strengthen cultural relations between the two countries, which already share strong ties in multiple fields. The agreement, signed in the presence of Yadav at his residence 'Samatva' in Bhopal, seeks to strengthen long-term cooperation between France and Madhya Pradesh in the field of culture and tourism, the official said. The tripartite MoU was signed by French Ambassador Mathou, MP's Principal Secretary (Tourism and Culture) Shiv Shekhar Shukla and President of Alliance Francaise de Bhopal, Akhilesh Verma. The language institute, set up in Bhopal in 1983, is supported by the French embassy and has now more than 2000 students in its classes a year in the state capital. This agreement will be valid for three years and can be extended further with mutual consent. Speaking on the occasion, Yadav pointed out that relations between India and France have always been good and they become stronger under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has visited the European country multiple times since assuming office in 2014. Madhya Pradesh is ready for business relations with France along with cultural ties. The CM is expected to visit France next month, the official informed. Possibilities of mutual cooperation will be explored between India and France in industrial development, entrepreneurship and promotion of handicrafts, he said. "This MoU realizes our vision to establish Madhya Pradesh not only as India's cultural capital, but also as a progressive, global tourism and cultural centre. Artists of the state will get a global platform to showcase their kills and number of tourists coming from France and Europe will increase significantly," the official said. Expressing happiness over the partnership, Ambassador Mathou noted, "We are very happy to establish this important cooperation with the Government of Madhya Pradesh. France mainly works on tourism, security, environment and education." "This MoU will further strengthen the cultural relations between the two countries, which will open new opportunities in the field of art, education and tourism," he emphasised. Under the MoU, cultural programmes will be organised jointly, which include art festivals, music, dance, exhibitions, film screenings, food and other events related to culture, the official explained. A dedicated Indo-French cultural calendar will be prepared every year. Also, tourism promotional material of Madhya Pradesh will be translated into French language and special efforts will be made to attract tourists from the key European country, he maintained. Tourism sector officials and guides will be given training in French language and culture, he said. This agreement will provide a global platform to local artists, craftsmen, students and cultural organizations, and help establish a unique identity of Madhya Pradesh at the international level, the official said.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
France targets 30,000 Indian students by 2030: What you need to know to be one of them
France targets 30,000 Indian students by 2030: What you need to know to join this opportunity. (AI Image) In a significant move to deepen Indo-French ties, French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou, while speaking to The Times of India editors during a recent roundtable, outlined France's vision to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, nearly tripling current numbers. "Our president gave us a very ambitious target, to very rapidly have 30,000 Indian students," Mathou told TNN, noting that around 8,000 Indian students registered for the 2023–2024 academic year, with the 10,000 mark likely to be crossed this year. France has already signed agreements with 35 universities to launch what it calls 'classes internationales,' exclusive one-year foundation programs tailored for Indian students. 'We haven't done this for other countries,' said Mathou, emphasizing France's commitment to not only educating Indian students, but also removing language barriers by combining intensive French learning with foundational coursework. These pathways are designed to ensure Indian students are fully integrated into French academia by their second year. According to Mathou, Indian students are now the largest group of foreign nationals in French business schools, a trend he attributes to English-taught curricula and the rising global reputation of French institutions. "It suggests that Indian students find France attractive," he told TNN. With over 800 French companies already employing more than 500,000 Indians, France is seeking not just student mobility but long-term academic and economic collaboration, avoiding 'brain drain' and encouraging students to return and contribute to India's growth. What This Means for Aspiring Indian Students The French government's initiative provides Indian students greater access to world-class education, rich cultural exposure, and career opportunities across Europe. With its streamlined visa policies, growing bilateral education ties, and the newly introduced 'international classes,' France is positioning itself as a top destination for Indian students seeking high-quality, affordable education abroad. Top Fields of Study for Indian Students in France According to the Campus France 2023 report, Indian students in France most commonly pursue: • Engineering and Information Technology • Business Management and Finance • Hospitality and Culinary Arts • Fashion, Design, and Fine Arts • Data Science and Artificial Intelligence French institutions are increasingly recognized globally. QS World University Rankings 2024 lists INSEAD, HEC Paris, École Polytechnique, and Sciences Po among the top choices for Indian and international students alike. 'Classes Internationales': A Tailored French Welcome for Indian Students France's Classes Internationales program offers a unique pathway for Indian students to pursue higher education in France. Launched in 2024, this initiative provides a one-year preparatory course focusing on French language acquisition and academic integration. The program is open to all Indian students, regardless of their current proficiency in French, with selection based solely on academic merit. Upon successful completion, students gain direct access to over 200 French-taught undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, engineering, social sciences, and design. Participating institutions offer programs in both traditional and apprenticeship formats. In apprenticeship programs, students divide their time between academic study and practical work experience in a company, with many employers covering tuition fees and providing stipends. This model not only enhances employability but also ensures financial sustainability for international students. Post-Study Pathways: From French Classrooms to Global Careers France offers robust post-study opportunities for international students, facilitating a seamless transition from academia to the workforce. Graduates from French institutions can apply for a "Recherche d'Emploi ou Création d'Entreprise" (RECE) residence permit, allowing them to stay in France for up to 24 months to seek employment or start a business. This extension is particularly beneficial for students in fields with high demand, such as engineering, information technology, and business management. Moreover, many French universities and grandes écoles have established strong ties with industries, offering students access to internships and job placements. The apprenticeship model integrated into the Classes Internationales program further enhances employability by providing practical experience and professional networking opportunities. Additionally, the France Alumni network offers ongoing support, including career services and connections with potential employers, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to embark on successful careers globally. Cost and Affordability One of the key advantages of studying in France is affordability. Public universities in France charge modest fees for international students — typically between €2,770 and €3,770 per year for undergraduate and master's programs, according to Campus France. The Charpak Scholarship Program, Eiffel Excellence Scholarships, and university-specific financial aid offer substantial relief for deserving Indian students. A Strategic Academic Bridge, Not a Brain Drain France's education policy reflects a long-term vision: it is not just about numbers but quality, diversity, and reciprocity. As Ambassador Mathou emphasized, "We want the best… and we want those students to come back to India" — positioning student mobility as part of a strategic partnership, rather than a one-way migration pipeline. Invest in Their Tomorrow, Today: Equip your child with the essential AI skills for a future brimming with possibilities | Join Now
