French Embassy in Kuwait celebrates International Day of French Teachers 2025
The Times Kuwait Report
The French Embassy in Kuwait, under the patronage of Ambassador H.E. Olivier Gauvin hosted a grand reception at his residence to mark the seventh edition of the International Day of French Teachers 2025.
The event brought together over 200 guests, including French language teachers from schools and universities across Kuwait, alongside prominent figures from the country’s educational sector.
In his remarks, Ambassador Gauvin underscored that learning a language opens a window to understanding and engaging with diverse cultures, emphasizing the vital role French teachers play in Kuwait.
“They do more than teach a language; they transmit a set of values grounded in openness, critical thinking, curiosity, and respect,” he said.
Highlighting this year’s theme of music, games, and singing, he noted that these activities foster creativity and build enduring connections with Francophone culture.
He also praised Kuwaiti students pursuing higher education in France, describing graduates of these programs as “the best bridges of communication between our countries,” contributing to stronger bilateral relations.
The Ambassador commended the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie for energizing Kuwait’s cultural landscape and extended special thanks to its honorary president, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, for his unwavering support.
Honoring 1,400 French Teachers Across Kuwait
The Embassy highlighted that the celebration also served to honor 1,400 French teachers working daily in public and private schools and universities.
Beyond language instruction, these educators are recognized as ambassadors of a living culture, promoting inclusion, dialogue, and cultural diversity.
French–Kuwaiti relations are described as “historic and fraternal,” with 2026 marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
French: A Language of Influence in Kuwait
French has been taught in Kuwait since 1966 and today ranks as the third most taught language, after Arabic and English.
Each year, over 50,000 students study French, with 24,000 students choosing it as part of their Baccalaureate curriculum and more than 300 students enrolled in the French program at Kuwait University.
French has also become a key language in law, maritime and shipping sectors, humanities, and international relations, with many students continuing their higher education in France, supported by the Embassy and the French Institute.
Promoting Francophonie and Modernizing Curricula
Established in 2021, the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie provides a platform for dialogue and coordination between Francophone countries in Kuwait, with backing from His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed.
The Declaration of Intent signed in March 2022 further strengthened educational cooperation and enhanced the teaching of French in Kuwait.
Anwar Al-Ridwan: Teachers Inspire and Equip Students
Anwar Al-Ridwan, Director General of French Language at the Ministry of Education, praised teachers for their dedication in transmitting the passion and noble mission of the French language. She highlighted their creativity and daily efforts in developing innovative teaching methods.
Al-Ridwan also noted the updated textbooks for grades 11 and 12 and the free-choice program, explaining that the revised curricula help students—especially those in scientific tracks — gain practical skills for using French in tourism and travel, while preparing them for the internationally recognized DELF Junior A1 exam.
She extended her appreciation to the French Embassy and French Institute for their continuous support and field visits, which contribute to the evaluation and improvement of French language programs in Kuwait.
