Govan: French Graduates are Ambassadors of Education in Kuwait
The French Ambassador to Kuwait, Olivier Gouven, emphasized the importance of the role played by graduates of French higher education institutions in strengthening Franco-Kuwaiti relations, describing them as permanent bridges between the two countries and as ambassadors of French education, culture, and innovation in Kuwait.
This statement was made during the France-Kuwait Graduates Ceremony 2026, held yesterday evening at the Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST), under the theme “Scientific Talents: Discovery, Innovation, Leadership.” The event was attended by the university’s president, Dr. Taher Ali, along with several ambassadors, diplomatic corps members, graduates of French universities, and friends of Francophonie.
Gouven noted that “Graduates Day is an initiative launched in July 2022 by the then French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Catherine Colonna, with the support of Campus France, aiming to annually celebrate graduates of French higher education institutions worldwide, highlight their experiences, and underscore the ties connecting them to France.”
He added that this year’s theme, “Scientific Talents: Discovery, Innovation, Leadership,” reflects the experiences of many graduates in Kuwait, whether in scientific research, medicine, economics, law, or startups.
Regarding Francophonie in Kuwait, Gouven stated that the French language enjoys a strong presence, with approximately 500,000 French speakers and 1,400 French language teachers working in government and private institutions. He also highlighted the expansion of French language instruction to include the tenth grade, viewing this as an opportunity to continue studies in France.
The ambassador urged French graduates to maintain their cohesion, leverage the alumni network, and contribute to its development. He encouraged them to act as “ambassadors of French higher education,” sharing their experiences with future generations to help build stronger bridges between France and Kuwait.
