French Online Distance Learning Programme Inaugurated at COMSATS

A colorful and lively ceremony was held at COMSATS Headquarters to inaugurate the French Online Distance Learning program, aimed at providing distance learning facility to students and professionals seeking to learn French language for career growth. Launching of the programme came on the occasion of the International Francophony Day, celebrated every year by the French speaking nations to commemorate the anniversary of the founding of the Agency of Francophony and to show solidarity with the French Language.

The French-Online programme in Pakistan is being jointly organized in cooperation with Alliance Francaise, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), and Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS).

The French Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Yannick Gerard was the chief guest on the occasion. The meeting was graced by participation from French-speaking and COMSATS’ member country diplomats and foreign missions in Pakistan, in addition to heads and representatives from scientific and academic organizations.

Speaking on the occasion, the French Ambassador applauded the efforts of Alliance Française and project partners and expressed his pleasure in having a technological means to promote and teach the French language. He hoped that this technological platform will go a long way, not only in educating people in French language but also in catering to the needs and aspirations of the general public and strengthen links with French companies across Pakistan.

The Executive Director COMSATS, Dr. Hameed Ahmed Khan cherished COMSATS’ working relationship with Alliance Française and Allama Iqbal Open University and highlighted the importance and benefits of Distance Learning techniques, which include just-in-time training, cost-effectiveness, flexibility, variety and consistency. Dr. Khan also extended his felicitations on the occasion of the Francophony day.

The august gathering was also addressed by the Vice Chancellor, Allama Iqbal Open University, Prof. Dr. Syed Altaf Hussain. Allama Iqbal Open University is a pioneer in distance learning that is launching French classes for its BCS students from June 2003. This distance learning programme is also being offered at Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Technology for students who have been selected for higher studies in France.

The highlight of the ceremony was a presentation on computer-based French Online Distance Learning programme, delivered by the Project Coordinator from the Embassy of French Republic, Dr. Ouafae Sananes. The presentation demonstrated various features of the dynamic and interactive web-based distance learning programme. Dr. Ouafae explained that the project, whose technology platform is being provided by COMSATS will be available across 5 cities, and will serve the objectives of promoting education for sustainable development in Pakistan through strengthening of cultural linkages.