UI VC Advocates for Bilingualism, Highlights French as Key to Job Opportunities and Collaboration

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, fspsp, FAS, has emphasized the significant benefits of bilingualism in enhancing job opportunities, research development, and fostering effective collaborations. He made this statement during a visit from a delegation of the French Embassy, accompanied by the French Unit, Department of European Studies, UI.

Professor Adebowale expressed the university’s commitment to promoting the French language, describing it as a vital second language in Nigeria’s educational system. He explained that the curriculum in both secondary and tertiary institutions encourages students to learn and speak French, which aligns with global collaboration efforts. The Vice-Chancellor pointed to the university’s longstanding partnership with France, especially through the French Research Institute in Africa (IFRA), which facilitates student and staff exchange programs and cultural mobility.

During the meeting, Professor Adebowale praised the role of the French Village in Badagry, currently headed by a staff member from UI’s Department of European Studies, as a hub for cultural and linguistic exchange. He advocated for broadening sensitization programs to include French culture in addition to the language itself and called for the introduction of French proficiency courses within the department.

The French Embassy’s team leader, Ms. Losange Magaly, the French Language Attaché, thanked the University Management for its dedication to the French language. She emphasized the importance of the collaboration, noting that both countries share a common goal of creating opportunities for youth through language and employability initiatives. Ms. Magaly also announced plans for a job fair in November, which will bring together employers, candidates, and universities to explore ways to enhance French language studies and improve student training.

She highlighted France's commitment to providing training opportunities for Nigerian professors and students and to expanding career prospects for those proficient in French, even if their primary academic background is outside language studies. The collaboration between the University of Ibadan and the French Embassy is expected to foster greater ties between Nigeria and France, with long-term benefits in education, employment, and cultural exchange.

This strategic partnership aims to create new opportunities for students, enhance employability, and further strengthen Nigeria-France relations.