French contest fosters excellence among Ugandan schools

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Alliance Française Kampala, in collaboration with the French Embassy in Uganda and other partners, have honoured outstanding students and schools in the “Njogera Français” competition. The event was held in the Kampala city suburb of Kamwokya on March 7, 2025.

Njogera Français [I speak French], is a DELF schools’ competition that aims to motivate and inspire French teachers and French learners and strengthen Francophone ties with Ugandan public and private schools and universities.

The initiative, designed to foster interest in the French language and open career opportunities, saw enthusiastic participation from students across Uganda. At the awards ceremony, several learners at the primary school level proudly displayed their certificates as a milestone in their academic journey.

Louise Bay, the Co-operation Attaché at the French Embassy in Kampala, represented the ambassador at the event and emphasised its significance in strengthening the bond between Uganda and the Francophone world.

“The Njogera Français competition is not only a platform to recognise and reward the exceptional achievements of students and teachers in learning French but also a powerful reminder of the values that connect us across borders,” she remarked.

Some of the winners awaiting to be awarded during the ceremony. (Credit: John Musenze)

Bay further noted that the event was particularly special as it took place during Francophonie Month in March, a time dedicated to celebrating the French language and its cultural and historical impact worldwide.

Ambassador of Rwanda to Uganda, Joseph Rutabana, who was the chief guest, lauded Alliance Française and its partners for fostering the French language beyond French borders, which is now spoken by over 310 million people in the world.

“I have been a beneficiary of this programme before, and a number of Rwandans come here for it because the numbers are many in Rwanda. It's very good that the certification is recognised worldwide, not just in Uganda.”

Éric Touzé from Alliance Française Kampala having a light moment with the Ambassador of Rwanda to Uganda during a coffee break. (Credit: John Musenze)

He called upon the winners to continue taking on the French language because it's not just speaking but has many opportunities.

Agatha Tumwine, the president of the Association of Teachers of French in Uganda (APFO), lauded Alliance Française for providing a platform where students could showcase their linguistic skills.

“This initiative is a great motivation for both students and teachers. I urge our sponsors and the French Embassy to consider incentives for teachers who dedicate immense effort to preparing students for such competitions,” she said.

Tumwine also pledged APFO’s commitment to expanding French language education across all Ugandan schools.

Among the celebrated winners was Kasanda Alfred Mary, a Form Five student at Seeta High School (Mukono Campus), who expressed her excitement and renewed commitment to continuing French studies beyond high school.

“Learning French can be challenging at first, but with determination and practice, it becomes an enjoyable experience,” she shared. She credited her teachers for their unwavering support and encouragement.

Monica Ashaba, a French teacher at Aga Khan Primary School (National Section), attributed their success to dedication, patience, and strategic teaching methodologies.

“We focus on extensive practice sessions to enhance students’ listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Since they don’t frequently use the language at home, I integrate practical activities to familiarise them with pronunciation and everyday usage,” she explained.

The winners hail from schools, including Seeta High School, Aga Khan Primary School, Galaxy International, Hill Side Nursery and Primary, Ambrosoli International School, St Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK), and Kisubi Seminary. They were awarded tablets, certificates, and laptop computers for their schools, among other prizes.

The 2024 edition of the Njogera Français competition saw participation from 22 schools—six primary and 16 secondary institutions. The number of students involved grew from 780 in 2023 to 823 in 2024, with female students making up 60% of the participants.