On 23 January, the University of French Guiana welcomed the French ambassador to Brazil to strengthen cooperation between French Guiana and Brazil in higher education, research and innovation, with new prospects for funding, mobility and bi-language courses.
A strategic diplomatic meeting at the University of Guyana
On 23 January, the University of French Guiana (UG) took an important step forward in cooperation between French Guiana and Brazil. It received Emmanuel Lenain, the French ambassador to Brazil. The diplomat was welcomed by UG President Laurent Linguet and his team. Guillaume Gellé, the rector, and the prefect's diplomatic adviser were also present.
This official visit is part of a drive to forge closer links between French Guiana, France and Brazil. The objective is clear: to structure sustainable partnerships in higher education, scientific research and innovation in Amazonia.
Scientific cooperation already underway in Amazonia
During the discussions, Ghislaine Prévot, Vice-President in charge of research, presented the main programmes developed with Brazil. These include research in the Amazon, a strategic area for climate, environmental and social issues.
The projects include student and teacher mobility schemes. They encourage exchanges of skills and strengthen the circulation of knowledge. Several institutional partnerships are already active, while others are under construction.
For his part, Antoine Primerose highlighted the role of AIBSI. This organisation structures academic and scientific exchanges between French Guiana and neighbouring Brazilian states. It is an essential lever for boosting cooperation between French Guiana and Brazil in the medium and long term.
Financing and visas: concrete challenges for cross-border projects
Discussions also focused on the financing of cross-border projects. The participants discussed the existing mechanisms and the scope for possible development. European funds, in particular the ERDF, are of particular interest in the Guyanese context.
The issue of exemptions linked to dock dues was also addressed. A better understanding of these arrangements would enable us to support cooperation projects between French Guiana and Brazil more effectively.
There have also been detailed discussions on visa procedures. The issue of visas depends on the length of the stay, the situation in the Brazilian states concerned and the consular procedures involved. The «diplomatic bag» was mentioned as a facilitating tool for certain material and documentary exchanges linked to academic projects.
Languages and dual language classes: a pillar of educational cooperation
Another major area concerns the transmission of languages. Mastery of French and Portuguese is a key factor in the success of cooperation between French Guiana and Brazil. Without solid linguistic skills, mobility remains limited.
The participants therefore discussed the opening of dual language classes in certain Brazilian states. The aim of this initiative is to strengthen the early learning of both languages. It would facilitate university careers and establish long-term cooperation.
With this in mind, a stronger partnership with the Rectorat is a strategic move. This would enable the actions of primary and secondary schools to be coordinated with those of higher education. This educational continuity would consolidate academic exchanges.
Towards an Amazonian higher education network
The discussions led to a structuring proposal. At the instigation of the President of the University of Guyana, the idea of a meeting with the rectors of the universities in Amazonia has emerged. The aim is to consolidate an Amazonian higher education and research network.
Such a network would make it possible to pool skills, develop joint projects and meet the specific needs of the Amazonian territories. It would also raise the international profile of cooperation between French Guiana and Brazil.
Through this diplomatic meeting, the University of Guyana is affirming its central role in regional cooperation. It is positioning itself as a strategic player in scientific and educational dialogue in Amazonia.
The diplomatic meeting at the University of French Guiana marks a new stage in cooperation between French Guiana and Brazil. Research, mobility, funding and bi-lingual training are all part of an ambitious and sustainable strategy. For academic and institutional players, the challenge now is to transform these prospects into concrete projects to serve the Amazon territories.
Why is cooperation between French Guiana and Brazil strategic?
It strengthens academic and scientific links in Amazonia. It also encourages the development of joint projects tailored to local realities. Finally, it improves the mobility of students and researchers.
What areas are covered by this cooperation?
The main areas are higher education, research and innovation. Projects focus in particular on the environment, biodiversity and Amazonian issues. Language training also plays a central role.
What is the role of the University of Guyana in this dynamic?
The University of Guyana is a key player in regional cooperation. It is developing partnerships with Brazilian universities. It also structures scientific and academic exchanges.
What obstacles have been identified?
Financing and visas remain sensitive issues. Administrative procedures can slow down some projects. Better institutional coordination is therefore essential.
Why develop dual-language classes?
Dual language classes help students to master French and Portuguese. They support student and professional mobility. They also strengthen long-term educational cooperation.
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