By Shruti Menon Seeboo
Campus France is dedicated to promoting French higher education and facilitating international student mobility, particularly for students from Mauritius. The agency plays a crucial role in connecting students with opportunities to study in France. On November 23 and 24, Campus France will participate in the Annual Study Fair hosted by Campus Abroad Mauritius, perfectly aligning with the application period for first-year Bachelor’s degrees, which runs from October to December each year. Audrey Paris, the responsible representative for Campus France Mauritius, emphasises that this fair is an essential platform for students. “Each year, students have a short period to fill in their application. The Campus Abroad Annual Study Fair takes place at the right time, providing students the opportunity to meet us and get the information they need.”
Mauritian students stand to gain significantly from pursuing their studies in France, both academically and culturally. Audrey notes that the French government invests heavily in education, allowing Mauritian students access to worldwide recognised courses. “By being in France, Mauritian students enjoy special benefits like reduced prices for museum visits, concerts, and cinema tickets,” she adds. This combination of quality education and cultural enrichment makes France an attractive destination for students eager to broaden their horizons.
Scholarship programs are vital for supporting Mauritian students. Audrey explains, “To apply, students must be at the postgraduate or PhD level in specific fields. They need to fill out an application form and submit it to the Mauritian Ministry of Education. If selected, Campus France Mauritius will assist with the necessary documents and information about the next steps.” This comprehensive support is crucial for students who might otherwise face financial barriers in pursuing their studies abroad.
Preparing for a move to France involves multiple steps, and Campus France is there to assist every step of the way. “At any time of the year, students can access information about the documents needed for visas through our website,” Audrey explains. “We also provide links and tips for accommodation and outline the various processes they must complete upon arrival. Our aim is to help them adjust to their new life in France, catering to both their administrative and social needs.” This proactive approach ensures that students feel supported and informed as they embark on their educational journeys.
With the rise of international mobility in education, Campus France has implemented initiatives to encourage Mauritian students to pursue research opportunities in France. Audrey shares that “students can choose from different scholarship programs that cater to researchers and post-docs. Additionally, those working in research in Mauritius can find programs to help them complete a stay in France at renowned laboratories.” This focus on research not only enhances individual student experiences but also fosters innovation and collaboration between France and Mauritius, strengthening ties between the two nations.
Campus France collaborates closely with French higher education institutions to ensure that Mauritian students receive comprehensive support during their studies. “France is a country that has always been very welcoming to students, and the social life is thus quite interesting and varied,” Audrey points out. “At Campus France Mauritius, we make sure that students know they will have an induction week and different services available to them as soon as they arrive in France. We have the ‘Bienvenue en France’ label and other initiatives designed to help them have the best experience possible.” This emphasis on student well-being and integration is vital for fostering a positive and enriching educational experience.
Looking to the future, Audrey discusses the ongoing efforts to strengthen educational ties between France and Mauritius. “There is an ongoing agreement that allows Mauritian students access to French educational institutions. With the large number of French companies operating in Mauritius, we expect the number of Mauritian students choosing to study in France to continue to grow,” she observes. This increasing interest reflects the value placed on international education and the benefits it brings to both individual students and their home country.
Furthermore, Campus France is committed to helping Mauritian alumni maintain connections with French institutions and contribute to a wider global network post-graduation. “We keep in touch with our alumni, who are all welcome to join our network,” Audrey states. “France Alumni Maurice is a platform through which alumni can interact with others worldwide. The ‘Institut français de Maurice’ also helps with the organisation of a France Alumni Day each May. By becoming a member of France Alumni Maurice, they are kept informed about all activities where they are warmly welcomed.” This focus on community and ongoing engagement underscores the importance of maintaining relationships beyond graduation, providing alumni with valuable resources and networking opportunities.
Campus France plays an essential role in connecting Mauritian students to educational opportunities in France, providing vital support throughout their academic journeys. With the upcoming Annual Study Fair, students will have a unique chance to explore their options and connect with representatives from various French institutions. As Audrey aptly put it, “Education knows no borders,” and Campus France is dedicated to helping students take their first steps toward a brighter future. Through its ongoing commitment to facilitating student mobility and enhancing educational experiences, Campus France continues to bridge the gap between cultures and create lasting connections for students from Mauritius and beyond.
