France has announced its ambitious goal to host 30,000 Indian students in its academic institutions by 2030, with the aim of fostering academic excellence, deepening cultural connections, and strengthening the enduring friendship between the two nations. This initiative was unveiled during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Paris, reflecting the commitment of both countries to enhance educational collaboration.
As part of the new program, France intends to introduce a five-year Schengen circulation visa for Indian alumni. The French embassy has outlined its belief that even a brief period of study in France can create lasting connections, and thus, Indian students with a Master’s degree or above who have spent at least a semester studying in France will be eligible for this special visa, facilitating ongoing links between Indian alumni and their French counterparts.
Emmanuel Lenain, the French ambassador, emphasized the dedication to supporting Indian students, stating, “France has always been an inclusive and diverse country, eager to share our rich cultural heritage and world-class education opportunities with Indian students.”
The initiative will feature specialized programs to offer comprehensive training in the French language and other academic disciplines, helping Indian students excel in their studies and easily adapt to the French education system.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement of the goal to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030 underscores the conviction that increased collaboration in education fosters academic excellence and cultural understanding, ultimately strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
To facilitate the initiative, the French government, along with Campus France, will host the ‘Choose France Tour 2023’, an education fair in major Indian cities. This fair will provide a platform for Indian students and parents to interact with representatives from over 40 French higher education institutions, offering a wide array of study options.
With France’s strong presence in India’s corporate landscape, graduates with French qualifications gain access to diverse career opportunities, potentially working with globally renowned organizations.