'Gay' Paris lures Indian students
Ranvir Nayar (Fe)
PARIS 21 OCTOBER
NEARLY 35 leading French universities and institutes will hold roadshows across India in November in an attempt to lure Indian students. The exhibitions, to be held from November 19, will be held in Delhi, Mumbai and Calcutta. Top French institutes and universities ranging from leading management institutes and top science universities to fine arts and hotel management schools will participate in the event.
So serious is the French government about attracting students from India that it has created a body specifically for that purpose. Edufrance was formed last year when the French education minister visited India and found that while a large number of Indian students is headed each year to various universities across the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia, their numbers to France are hardly worth talking about.
In 1998, there were less than 100 Indian students in various French educational institutions, forming a minuscule part of the 2.1-million-strong student population of France, of which nearly 1,40,000 are foreigners. Though several other nationalities are well represented, Indian students are conspicuous by their absence. Unhappy with their low numbers, the French government created Edufrance with the specific mandate of bringing more Indian students to France. Edufrance began by organising seminars in India about the educational opportunities in this country and highlighting the advantages of studying in France. But Edufrance officials admit they have huge obstacles to clear before they can reach out to the Indian students.
"There are a number of psychological barriers. The first is the language and then there is this misconception that education in France is very expensive and finally the question of obtaining visas," said Mathilde Mallet, who is in charge of organising the seminars.
Ms Mallet said Edufrance has to begin by changing the image of France in India. "France is well known for luxury products, cosmetics and perfumes. But few know about the high-technology achievements of French industry and the strong educational foundation that supports this high-technology industry," she said. - IANS |
