DELF attracts 400,000 candidates worldwide, honors 100 Kuwaitis

• H.E. Claire Le Flécher, the Ambassador of France to the State of Kuwait, affirmed that one-third of Kuwaitis understand French, with many speaking it fluently.

• French language is the fifth most spoken language in the world, with over 235 million people using it daily and more than 300 million people understanding it across the five continents.

• On October 4 and 5, representatives from about 100 countries and governments will participate in the nineteenth Francophone Summit in Villers-Côtiers.

H.E. Claire Le Flécher, the Ambassador of France to the State of Kuwait, affirmed that one-third of Kuwaitis understand French, with many speaking it fluently. She expressed delight at the rising number of French speakers in Kuwait and the growing interest in French culture, citing an increase in Kuwaiti students studying in France.

In her speech during the distribution of ‘Diploma in French Language Studies’ (DELF) and ‘Advanced Diploma in French Language’ (DALF) certificates to students who successfully completed these courses, Ambassador Le Flécher extended a warm welcome to graduates of both levels, including children and adults, who have attained a certain proficiency in the French language and passed the exam.

The ambassador highlighted the significance of these certificates, as they allow holders to apply to universities and further enhance their French language skills. These official certificates can only be obtained through courses held annually at the French Institute, facilitated by the embassy.

Ambassador Le Flécher explained that while the French language is beautiful, it can also be somewhat challenging. She noted that Kuwaitis put effort into learning it, highlighting that parents often encourage their children to learn French. This effort strengthens relations between France and Kuwait, as it leads to more Kuwaitis having ties with France. Some visit France, while others engage in projects with French entities. For us, this represents a valuable investment for the future.

In a speech delivered to the students and their families, the ambassador said, “The year 2024 marks a moment of pride for the French language that we all share. On October 4 and 5, representatives from about 100 countries and governments will participate in the nineteenth Francophone Summit in Villers-Côtiers.

The theme will be ‘Creativity, Innovation, and Implementation in the French Language.’ This language unites us in our unity and diversity, as emphasized by President of the Republic Emmanuel Macron.”

Ambassador Le Flécher added that the French language is the fifth most spoken language in the world, with over 235 million people using it daily and more than 300 million people understanding it across the five continents. This language presents immense opportunities to improve communication between various populations and cultures, shaping the world of tomorrow.

The ambassador also mentioned, “DELF attracts approximately 400,000 candidates annually and has welcomed nine million candidates worldwide since 1985. It annually honors over 100 candidates of all ages in Kuwait.”

For his part, Benoit Catala, Counselor for Cooperation and Cultural Action and Director of the French Institute in Kuwait, stated, “The Institute is the sole accredited center for these internationally recognized certificates, which remain valid for life. They enable holders to work, study, and even immigrate to French-speaking countries. We follow the European Framework of Reference for teaching French.”

He noted that certificates were distributed to approximately 30 individuals, including students and employees of various ages. He further emphasized, “In Kuwait, French is the third language, with nearly half a million French speakers. Globally, it ranks as the fifth most spoken language. This widespread presence is reflected in the increasing proportion of French language instruction in public schools, a trend that began in the 1960s.”