The 11th Congress of the Africa and Indian Ocean Commission of the International Federation of French Teachers (FIPF) opened today in the vibrant city of Kampala, taking place within the School of Business of the University of Makerere (MUBS). Under the theme “The French language as a driver of sustainable development in the digital age”, this major event brought together French-speaking intellectuals and experts eager to reinvent the teaching of French in Africa and the Indian Ocean.
From the very first moments, Agathe Tumwine, president of the Association of French Teachers in Uganda (APFO), outlined the contours of a new era for the teaching of French. His visionary speech highlighted the crucial importance of integrating digital technologies and artificial intelligence into educational strategies, in order to prepare learners for the realities of the contemporary world.
The inspiring words of Ms. Rennie YOTOVA, representative of the Organization Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), reinforced this ambitious vision. Insisting on innovation as a driver of progress, she reminded the audience that French must become a lever for economic and technological development in Africa. The OIF’s initiatives in favor of the creation of educational digital content in French aroused keen interest among participants.
During sessions led by experts such as Franck N. Kaleka, the impact of artificial intelligence on the translation industry was at the heart of the debates. Survival strategies for translators in an AI-dominated environment have raised crucial questions about the future of the profession, reflecting the rapid changes taking place in the world of education and communication.
The afternoon workshops offered participants a range of varied themes, ranging from the integration of social networks in the teaching of French to the consideration of sustainable development issues in school programs. These exchanges stimulated reflection and encouraged the sharing of innovative ideas to improve the quality of French teaching in the region.
The electric atmosphere that reigns in the corridors of MUBS testifies to the enthusiasm of the delegates, who came from different backgrounds to celebrate the richness of the French language and explore new avenues of learning. Janyce Obrecht, from the French Embassy in Uganda, highlighted the strategic importance of this congress as a unique opportunity for Uganda to strengthen its ties with the French-speaking community and assert itself as a major player in the Francophonie in East Africa.
The launch of a collaborative digital platform marks a turning point in the exchange of resources and experiences between French teachers from Africa and the Indian Ocean, demonstrating the desire to create lasting synergies beyond borders geographical and cultural.
As the sun sets over Kampala, excitement and the promise of future discoveries fill the atmosphere at the conference. This major meeting is a catalyst for the evolution of French teaching in Africa, combining linguistic tradition and digital innovation to shape the future of the Francophonie on the continent.