education 14 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Experts Push for Broader French Language Certification in Ugandan Schools
The Njogera Français Initiative has boosted French learning and DELF exam success across Uganda, but experts highlight barriers like high costs, early dropouts, and limited advanced programs hindering wider expansion. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/education/experts-seek-ways-to-expand-french-learning-in-schools-5390642
Experts gathered at the Njogera Français awarding ceremony in Kampala to celebrate successes and discuss strategies for growing French language education in Ugandan schools.
Launched in 2022 by Alliance Française Kampala and the French Embassy, the initiative has engaged over 60 schools, trained more than 80 teachers, and helped over 3,400 students. Last year, 888 learners took DELF exams, with pass rates of 88% for primary and 95% for secondary students.
At École International School Kampala, 23 top performers received prizes like tablets and dictionaries, while schools and teachers got laptops to aid instruction. Project coordinator Karim Cwinya’ay praised the dedication of students and educators, noting DELF tests listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills.
Despite progress, challenges persist. Samuel Wandera from the Association of Teachers of French in Uganda pointed out that while 430 teachers serve 60,000 learners, many students abandon French after early secondary years due to curriculum pressures favoring sciences. Exam fees exclude rural students, and advanced programs are scarce, limited mainly to Makerere, Kyambogo, and Kabale universities.
Educators stress the need for teachers to mentor students through practice, cultural activities, and career guidance to sustain interest amid resource shortages and low incentives.