By Abubakar Yunusa
The French Government, through its embassy in Nigeria, is spearheading a project to train 150 French teachers across five regions: Enugu, Oyo, Lagos, Plateau States, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The initiative aims to enhance the employability of Nigerians proficient in French.
As part of the project, €600,000 has been allocated to support the program, which includes the construction of a university center in Badagry Village, Lagos, and journalist training programs.
The announcement was made during an event at the French Embassy in Abuja to commemorate World Teachers’ Day.
Feyitimi Babajide, Project Coordinator for Atua Lumi Ko Nainja, explained that the training adopts advanced teaching methodologies to elevate educators’ skills.
“The project has three components,” Babajide stated. “First, the reinforcement of skills for secondary school teachers. Second, the establishment of a university center in Badagry Village. Lastly, journalist training programs to improve their reportage.”
He revealed that 150 French teachers have already undergone training in advanced teaching techniques, focusing on speaking skills and participation in international examinations, supported by the French Embassy.
Francophone journalists also benefited, receiving specialized training to improve event reporting, especially on radio. Teachers who completed the program were awarded certifications.
Professor Mufutau Tijani, a Professor of French and Applied Linguistics at the University of Abuja, underscored the challenges of promoting French language education in Nigeria.
He lamented that many students study French solely for academic reasons, overlooking its career benefits.
“There are limited opportunities for students to practice French outside the classroom,” Tijani said.
“Additionally, the lack of motivation stems from a general failure to recognize the value of learning French. However, it’s a skill that can unlock numerous job opportunities.”
The French-Up Your Career program, a collaboration between the French Embassy and Nigerian institutions, aims to address these challenges by promoting employability among French language students.
Ada Peter, Director of the Center for Learning Resources at Covenant University, suggested integrating French with other academic disciplines to broaden its appeal.
“Combining French with fields like international relations or digital humanities can provide students with practical skills and highlight the language’s relevance in diverse careers,” she noted.
