The 2026 General Assembly of the University of French Guiana, which took place on Monday 13 July at 10.00 am in Lecture Theatre A, presented an overview of governance, finances, student initiatives, degree programmes, research and partnerships, in order to inform the university community about future priorities.
An opportunity for dialogue with the university community
The University of French Guiana’s 2026 General Assembly was held on Monday 13 July at 10.00 am in Lecture Theatre A. The meeting brought the university community together for a progress update on the institution’s situation.
Ms Martine SÉBÉLOUÉ, provisional administrator of the University of French Guiana and acting president, had announced this meeting. The aim was to present the initiatives already underway, upcoming deadlines and information relevant to the university’s collective functioning.
Participants were also able to ask questions anonymously via the link provided for this purpose. This meant that everyone could contribute to the discussions and seek clarification on the topics presented.
Martine SÉBÉLOUÉ pointed out that a university is, above all, a community of men and women united by a shared ambition. It must educate, pass on knowledge, generate new insights, nurture talent and contribute to the development of the region.
A committed leadership team since 1 April 2026
Since 1 April 2026, the University of French Guiana’s governing body has been pursuing three key objectives: restoring confidence, ensuring the institution’s security and preparing for its future.
Discussions were held with the relevant national authorities and local partners. These discussions enabled the parties to reach a shared assessment of the situation and to better identify the challenges the institution needs to address.
A strategic review has also identified a number of areas of weakness. These relate in particular to support functions, human resources and property.
In response, a number of support measures have been put in place. The university plans to create the post of Deputy Director-General of Services. A ministerial support team is also due to arrive in September, bringing expertise in the fields of human resources and finance.
Furthermore, the regional education authority is carrying out a support mission due to the absence of a Director-General of Services. The DGESIP, France Université, the Directorate for Management, the Ministry for Overseas Territories, the Minister’s Office and the President’s Office are all involved in this phase.
The Prefect, the Rector and the President of the Territorial Collectivity of French Guiana (CTG) are also among those involved in the discussions.
Financial decisions to safeguard strategic projects
The University of French Guiana’s 2026 General Assembly provided an opportunity to review the university’s finances and key development projects. In particular, the university presented a transparent amended budget for approval.
This budget reflects the financial reality of the University of French Guiana and reveals an actual deficit. Against this backdrop, a joint political decision involving the Prefecture, the CTG, the Regional Education Authority and the Regional Health Agency (ARS) has secured funding for the University Health Training Centre (PFUS).
The document also refers to the cancellation of ERDF funding. It provides for the reallocation of funds earmarked for the Cultural and Sports Centre (CCS) to the PHUS.
The aim remains to ensure the PFUS is implemented, whilst safeguarding the Cultural and Sports Centre project. Funding for the latter must therefore be rescheduled.
At the same time, the adoption of the new agreement by the Social Welfare Committee (COS) promotes internal cohesion and the quality of social dialogue.
Initiatives to support campus life and student wellbeing
Ms Audrey DÉBIBAKAS, Vice-President for Culture and Campus Life, outlined a number of initiatives carried out for the benefit of students.
From 6 to 12 February 2026, an immersive experience in Macapá brought together 25 students. This exchange programme fostered academic collaboration with the Federal University of Amapá on topics relating to health, wellbeing and student life.
The participants also explored Macapá’s cultural and historical heritage. Further joint initiatives are now being considered for the benefit of students at both universities.
The Student Health Service (SSE) saw 747 students during the 2025–2026 academic year. Its staff carried out 1,695 individual consultations.
Two one-stop shops dedicated to access to healthcare, meanwhile, attracted 998 students. The initiatives focused on prevention, guidance and medical, psychological, nursing and paramedical follow-up care.
The service also provided support to students with disabilities through personalised plans. Its activities included 11 screening sessions, 17 group sessions involving 120 students, and 7 health information stands.
Training, work-study schemes and the development of the ACAI Master’s degree
Mr Frédéric BONDIL, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Education and University Life, outlined the main initiatives relating to degree programmes.
The University of French Guiana took part in the Mayors’ Fair on 30 and 31 January 2026. Its participation enabled it to showcase its courses to the public and to strengthen its ties with civil society.
The discussions focused on returning to study and the region’s training needs. They also covered work placements, work-study schemes and future partnerships for the benefit of students at the University of French Guiana.
The ACAI Master’s degree programme addresses the need for a five-year post-A-level course in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity in French Guiana. Its inclusion of work-study options is intended to enhance graduates’ employability and respond more directly to local needs.
The course takes into account the specific characteristics of the Amazon region. Its applications relate to biodiversity, the environment, tropical health and the space sector. The stated aim is to award degrees to 20 students each year.
A chair dedicated to satellite data and biodiversity
Mr Mathieu NACHER, Vice-President for Research, and Mr Ollivier TAMARIN, Research Officer, presented the institution’s scientific advances.
A chair entitled «Use of Satellite Data & Biodiversity» has been established for a period of three years as part of the University of French Guiana’s AIBSI project.
This chair is based on a collaborative approach that brings together the region’s research capabilities. The selected project is led by the UMR Espace-Dev and the UAR LEEISA.
It is intended to promote the use of satellite data to further knowledge, conservation and sustainable management. Three scientific experts have assessed the project.
CNES is also providing support by funding two PhD contracts. The project will begin in September 2026. It aims to improve our understanding, conservation and management of French Guiana’s ecosystems.
Closer cooperation with Brazil
Mr Rosuel Lima Pereira, Vice-President for International Relations, presented the University of French Guiana’s international cooperation projects and its roots in the Amazon region.
In Belém, the opening of the Maison France-UFPA marks the creation of a new centre for Franco-Brazilian scientific cooperation in the Amazon. The University of French Guiana is recognised there as a strategic partner thanks to its location in the Amazon and its cross-border role.
Maison France-UFPA will support projects focusing on climate, biodiversity, social change and local knowledge. It will host researchers, PhD students, undergraduates and project leaders working with the UFPA.
Two recipients of the CFBBA Chairs Programme 2026 will also be welcomed to the University of French Guiana. At the same time, two Franco-Brazilian chairs from the State of São Paulo have been awarded to the university.
This scheme provides for reciprocal exchanges. Lecturers and researchers from French Guiana will be able to travel to Brazil, whilst Brazilian researchers will be welcomed to French Guiana.
Finally, an academic trip to Belém and Santarém will be offered in September 2026 to Master’s and PhD students.
The 2026 General Assembly of the University of French Guiana presented a comprehensive review of governance, finances, student welfare, teaching, research and international relations. The measures undertaken are intended to stabilise the institution and support its strategic projects. The university community is now encouraged to remain engaged, to take part in discussions and to contribute actively to the development of the University of French Guiana.
FAQ
When and where was the University of French Guiana’s 2026 General Assembly held?
It took place on Monday 13 July at 10.00 am in Lecture Theatre A. The meeting brought the university community together to discuss the institution’s current situation and priorities.
What are the objectives of the University of French Guiana’s governance?
Since 1 April 2026, the governing body has been working to restore confidence, ensure the institution’s stability and prepare for the future. A number of support initiatives and strengthening measures have been launched.
What results did the Student Health Service present?
The SSE welcomed 747 students and carried out 1,695 one-to-one consultations in 2025–2026. Two one-stop shops also brought together 998 students to discuss access to healthcare.
What is the aim of the ACAI Master’s degree?
The ACAI Master’s programme provides training at Bac+5 level in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. It is open to work-study students and aims to award degrees to 20 students each year.
What will the «Use of Satellite Data & Biodiversity» Chair be used for?
This chair is intended to develop the use of satellite data to understand, conserve and manage Guyana’s ecosystems sustainably. It will commence in September 2026 and run for three years.
How is the University of French Guiana strengthening its ties with Brazil?
It is involved with the Maison France-UFPA in Belém and hosts Franco-Brazilian chairs. Exchange programmes and an academic mission to Belém and Santarém are also planned.
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