CASTRIES, St Lucia: In order to show its dedication to the strengthening of the ties between the French Caribbean and the OECS Member States, the University of the French West Indies and Guiana (Université des Antilles et de la Guyane - UAG) is offering a language training programme to new applicants from the OECS Member States.

While many students in the OECS countries learn French throughout primary and secondary school, some may find it difficult to achieve the level of fluency required to successfully achieve higher education in a French-speaking institution. In order to close the language gap that may prevent some students from pursuing further studies, the University of the French West Indies and Guiana is offering a free preparatory course.

This course is intended for dedicated and motivated students with at least a basic knowledge of the French language. Lessons consist of 600 hours of French language, as well as methodology classes, preparing students to enroll into a bachelors degree programme of their choice at UAG. The programme will be taught from January 2009 to June 2009 at the Schoelcher campus in Martinique, as a preparation for the 2009-2010 university year.

Applications are open to citizens of the OECS Member States who hold an Associate Degree or an A-level in any subject relevant to the programme they wish to follow, and who wish to apply at UAG or to any public education institution in Martinique, Guadeloupe or French Guiana. Tuition, registration and course material are free of charge the students are only responsible for their boarding and personal expenses on campus.

Applications for this special preparatory course must be made before October 31st, 2008.

Source: caribbeannetnews.com/news-10643--41-41--.html