“France Alumni Day” took place in Paris for the course of 2 weeks, starting from May 13 to May 28, 2023. Two weeks of events were organised to celebrate the experiences of international students in France. On May 23, 2023, Olivier Becht, minister of foreign trade and economic attractiveness, and French nationals abroad joined at the Quai d’Orsay.
In his speech at the event, Becht added, “You are, in your diversity, one of the faces of French academic excellence.” He thanked over 300 delegates, including alumni, for choosing France as the study destination. He noted that in 2022, France welcomed over 400,000 students, setting a record. While France was ranked seventh among countries for admitting the most international students.
The main agenda of this global celebration was to bring the vast network of alumni together to showcase their strengths. Over 372,000 alumni worldwide came together, and through leveraging this network, they were able to stay connected with their peers and France.
Alumni at the event shared their views with the next generation. Archippus Sturrock, an alumnus of the University of London in Paris, spoke about diversity, and the inclusion of international aspects in France. He added, “When we travel, we discover diversity.” According to him, his studies in Paris enabled him to come out and witness diversity.
The France Alumni Network platform has enabled 3,200 partnerships with French companies and institutions since its launch. Christopher Cripps, senior advisor for global engagement and diplomatic affairs, says, France is the internship capital of the world.
Another alumnus at the Insititut Nationale Polytechnique de Toulouse, Soalandy Randrianjafy commented on the occasion. She said that the higher education system’s proximity to the business world of France is highly appreciable. She added that, being in university in France, she’s been able to complete two internships in top-tier companies. This much experience on her CV will be beneficial for her to get placed at a top company.
Cripps further added the way the French promote their culture and language. Whatever is offered by the higher education system of France, whether private or public, is validated by the central and French ministries. Delegates at the event were happy to hear from the esteemed guest of honour. “Mix nationalities, mix knowledge, progress together, do research together. We are always better when we seek solutions from various sides to improve this life on earth”. Binagwaho, an alumni of the Université de Bretagne Occidentale this statement.