Kenyan language assistants prepare for teaching placements in France through an education exchange programme.
The 2026–2027 cohort includes 90 new language assistants and 79 returning participants who will teach English in French primary and secondary schools.
A total of 169 Kenyan language assistants are set to travel to France for the 2026–2027 academic year.
The participants will teach English in French primary and secondary schools from October 2026 to April 2027.
The group includes 90 first-time participants and 79 returning assistants.
Kenya joined the education exchange programme in 2019. Since then, about 650 Kenyans have participated.
Kenya Leads Africa in Programme
Figures from the French Embassy show Kenya leads Africa in programme participation.
The country ranks sixth globally and fourth among countries providing English-language assistants.
Meanwhile, the wider programme attracts about 4,500 participants from around the world each year.
Participants teach languages such as English, German, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin and Arabic.
Speaking at a reception in Nairobi, French Ambassador Wadid Benaabou highlighted the programme’s role.
He said the exchange strengthens Kenya-France relations through direct contact between citizens.
Benaabou also urged participants to represent Kenya positively during their stay.
Assistants to Gain Global Experience
Kenyan officials also linked the programme to professional growth and international opportunities.
Secretary for Diaspora, Investment, Skills and Expertise Isaiya Kabira urged participants to build professional networks.
He also encouraged them to connect with Kenyan diaspora communities during their placements.
Kabira said stronger language skills could help Kenyans access opportunities in countries such as Germany and Japan.
Additionally, the assistants will share Kenyan culture with their French host communities.
They will introduce aspects of Kenya’s languages, music, food and innovations.
Training Completed Before Departure
The Embassy of France and Alliance Française centres in Kenya selected the participants.
Applicants needed at least B1-level French proficiency alongside other selection requirements.
Pre-departure training ran from September 21 to 24 in Nairobi and Mombasa.
Four top-performing French speakers also received Air France tickets.
Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research Beatrice Inyangala urged participants to bring back new ideas.
She also asked them to ensure their exchange benefits their French host communities.
Applications for the 2027–2028 programme are expected to open in January 2027.
