NSU Joins Francophone University Association

Novosibirsk State University became an official member of the Francophone University Association (AUF). The decision was made following the results of the AUF Administrative Council meeting that was held in Paris in late November. 

The Francophone University Association (AUF) is one of the largest international associations of universities, graduate schools, and scientific research and educational centers. It was established to organize worldwide scientific research in French.

Michel Debrenne, Director of the NSU French Center and Coordinator of the Russian-French exchange programs noted that the basis for NSU’s acceptance was the large number of contracts between NSU and French universities.

Debrenne explained:

 – We are talking about double diploma programs, conducting regularly the conference ‘Cooperation with French Universities ‘at NSU and, especially, the annual arrival of 50 French students for NSU internships and courses.

Membership in the Association, according to Debrenne, provides a number of advantages to universities. In particular, the AUF finances activities to improve the qualifications of teachers, as well as research and publications. 

Agreement on the entry of NSU into the Francophone University Association was reached in November last year as part of a visit by an AUF representative to Novosibirsk. 

The Francophone University Association includes 817 universities from more than 106 countries that use French in their educational and scientific activities. In addition to NSU, only three other Russian universities are members of AUF: the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, the Baltic Federal Universityin St. Petersburg, and the St. Petersburg State University of Economics and Finance. 

More information about AUF projects is available at https://www.auf.org/