Latest news with #ThierryMathou
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
France targets 30,000 Indian students by 2030: What you need to know to be one of them
France targets 30,000 Indian students by 2030: What you need to know to join this opportunity. (AI Image) In a significant move to deepen Indo-French ties, French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou, while speaking to The Times of India editors during a recent roundtable, outlined France's vision to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, nearly tripling current numbers. "Our president gave us a very ambitious target, to very rapidly have 30,000 Indian students," Mathou told TNN, noting that around 8,000 Indian students registered for the 2023–2024 academic year, with the 10,000 mark likely to be crossed this year. France has already signed agreements with 35 universities to launch what it calls 'classes internationales,' exclusive one-year foundation programs tailored for Indian students. 'We haven't done this for other countries,' said Mathou, emphasizing France's commitment to not only educating Indian students, but also removing language barriers by combining intensive French learning with foundational coursework. These pathways are designed to ensure Indian students are fully integrated into French academia by their second year. According to Mathou, Indian students are now the largest group of foreign nationals in French business schools, a trend he attributes to English-taught curricula and the rising global reputation of French institutions. "It suggests that Indian students find France attractive," he told TNN. With over 800 French companies already employing more than 500,000 Indians, France is seeking not just student mobility but long-term academic and economic collaboration, avoiding 'brain drain' and encouraging students to return and contribute to India's growth. What This Means for Aspiring Indian Students The French government's initiative provides Indian students greater access to world-class education, rich cultural exposure, and career opportunities across Europe. With its streamlined visa policies, growing bilateral education ties, and the newly introduced 'international classes,' France is positioning itself as a top destination for Indian students seeking high-quality, affordable education abroad. Top Fields of Study for Indian Students in France According to the Campus France 2023 report, Indian students in France most commonly pursue: • Engineering and Information Technology • Business Management and Finance • Hospitality and Culinary Arts • Fashion, Design, and Fine Arts • Data Science and Artificial Intelligence French institutions are increasingly recognized globally. QS World University Rankings 2024 lists INSEAD, HEC Paris, École Polytechnique, and Sciences Po among the top choices for Indian and international students alike. 'Classes Internationales': A Tailored French Welcome for Indian Students France's Classes Internationales program offers a unique pathway for Indian students to pursue higher education in France. Launched in 2024, this initiative provides a one-year preparatory course focusing on French language acquisition and academic integration. The program is open to all Indian students, regardless of their current proficiency in French, with selection based solely on academic merit. Upon successful completion, students gain direct access to over 200 French-taught undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, engineering, social sciences, and design. Participating institutions offer programs in both traditional and apprenticeship formats. In apprenticeship programs, students divide their time between academic study and practical work experience in a company, with many employers covering tuition fees and providing stipends. This model not only enhances employability but also ensures financial sustainability for international students. Post-Study Pathways: From French Classrooms to Global Careers France offers robust post-study opportunities for international students, facilitating a seamless transition from academia to the workforce. Graduates from French institutions can apply for a "Recherche d'Emploi ou Création d'Entreprise" (RECE) residence permit, allowing them to stay in France for up to 24 months to seek employment or start a business. This extension is particularly beneficial for students in fields with high demand, such as engineering, information technology, and business management. Moreover, many French universities and grandes écoles have established strong ties with industries, offering students access to internships and job placements. The apprenticeship model integrated into the Classes Internationales program further enhances employability by providing practical experience and professional networking opportunities. Additionally, the France Alumni network offers ongoing support, including career services and connections with potential employers, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to embark on successful careers globally. Cost and Affordability One of the key advantages of studying in France is affordability. Public universities in France charge modest fees for international students — typically between €2,770 and €3,770 per year for undergraduate and master's programs, according to Campus France. The Charpak Scholarship Program, Eiffel Excellence Scholarships, and university-specific financial aid offer substantial relief for deserving Indian students. A Strategic Academic Bridge, Not a Brain Drain France's education policy reflects a long-term vision: it is not just about numbers but quality, diversity, and reciprocity. As Ambassador Mathou emphasized, "We want the best… and we want those students to come back to India" — positioning student mobility as part of a strategic partnership, rather than a one-way migration pipeline. Invest in Their Tomorrow, Today: Equip your child with the essential AI skills for a future brimming with possibilities | Join Now
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
France expands educational opportunities for Indian students; aims to welcome 30,000 students by 2030
France is aiming to strengthen educational ties with India by aiming to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, a sharp rise from the current 8,000 enrolled for the 2023–24 academic year. This goal, stated by French ambassador Thierry Mathou to The Times of India, is part of a broader plan to deepen people-to-people connections under the India-France strategic partnership. According to the report by Times of India, to support this initiative, France has introduced tailored measures to attract Indian students. These include special one-year 'classes internationales' across 35 French universities. The programme is designed for Indian students completing high school and includes intensive French language training alongside introductory courses in their chosen field of study. The official stated that this approach is unique to India and not extended to students from other countries. 'It means that after one year, there will be no language problem,' the official said to TOI. France's business schools, many offering programmes entirely in English, have seen a rise in Indian enrolments — now the top foreign nationality in these institutions. The French government emphasised that it does not aim to attract large volumes of students but is focused on quality. 'We want to attract the best. And we want those students to come back to India,' he added, that student mobility is seen as an extension of the strategic partnership. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) In addition to academic opportunities, Indian graduates returning home will find job prospects with French companies already operating in India. France currently has about 800 companies in the country, employing over 500,000 Indians. Live Events MORE STORIES FOR YOU ✕ Studying in UK just got more expensive for international students Denmark restricts work and family rights for international students starting May 2025 « Back to recommendation stories I don't want to see these stories because They are not relevant to me They disrupt the reading flow Others SUBMIT Visa procedures have also been streamlined. For Indian tourists, students, and professionals, the Embassy of France in India aims to process Schengen visa applications within 48 hours of receiving complete documentation. While France is bound by Schengen rules, efforts are underway to improve access and experience for Indian travellers. French authorities highlighted that these moves are not just administrative changes but part of a longer-term effort to strengthen bilateral ties through education and mobility.
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
‘French def players willing to make in India... not sure others ready to do so': French ambassador to India Thierry Mathou
French ambassador to India Thierry Mathou tells TOI editors at a recent roundtable how his country is looking to widen bilateral ties, expand trade, attract more students and tourists and double down on the defence partnership at a time of deepening global uncertainty amid Trump's tariff war and the conflict in Ukraine. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Edited excerpts: On India-France ties ■ Strategic autonomy is the core principle of French diplomacy and it is also the case with India. We have the same view on the Indo-Pacific. My president has always been very clear. We oppose any kind of hegemon in the region. We realise that thanks to this strategic partnership, which celebrated its 25th anniversary two years ago, our common interest is really to work hand in hand in different sectors. That's why we adopted a new roadmap when visited France. Defence and security really is the core of our partnership. We just had good news about the Rafale (M) aircraft. In the coming months and years, you will see more... Make in India is a priority for India and all our big stakeholders in the defence industry want to play the game. That means coming to India, building in India and transfer of technology. That's the key. What we have done through a new roadmap is to enlarge the relationship. We have three pillars. The first is defence and security. The second is what we call the partnership for the planet... issues like climate change and biodiversity protection. The third pillar is, for me, maybe the most challenging because it's the key to long-term (ties): people-topeople exchanges. Indian diaspora in France is quite small compared to your diaspora in other countries. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now And one of the consequences is that the number of students in France is also very small. 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030 ■ Our president gave us a very ambitious target, to very rapidly have 30,000 Indian students (8,000 registered for 20232024, 10,000 threshold expected to be achieved this year). We have created a mechanism for international classes and signed agreements with 35 universities. And in those universities, we have specific classes only for Indians ( classes internationales ). We haven't done this for other countries. So, we take Indian students at the end of high school, send them to those classes for one year (where) they will have intensive French learning and, at the same time, start courses for the curriculum they would like to follow. It means that after one year, there is no language problem. French business schools now are among the best in the world. What is very interesting is that since last year Indian students are the top foreign nationality in our business school. For the simple reason that in these schools the curriculum is totally in English. It suggests that Indian students find France attractive. We have a different approach to student mobility. Our intention is not to attract hundreds of thousands of students. We want to attract the best. And we want those students to come back to India because we want our university partnership and student mobility to be part of our strategic partnership. We have about 800 French companies in the country. They are already employing more than 500,000 Indians. So, we tell our Indian students, well, try to learn French but, if not, you go to France anyway to study and after you graduate, you come back to your country because your country needs you and you can help us develop this strategic partnership. We don't want to facilitate any brain drain. Trump's tariff war ■ Well, I think the new American administration has brought to the international scene more volatility and unpredictability. I would say that more than ever the strategic partnership between France and India is the key. Stability is important. And it's not a question only for govts, it's also essential for the private sector. I see an advantage in this new situation... which is that once again partnerships like the one we have with India are going to be very important. We just had a historic visit by the European Commission president during which it was announced that the India-EU FTA will be finalised by the end of this year. US push for military sales to India ■ My answer to that is simple. When it comes to transfer of technology, or rehabilitation of the industrial sector, you won't be able to find a better offer than that from the French. Judge us from the past and from the present. And what you have seen so far is just the beginning of a long journey. Our Indian partners trust us. They know that our industry is here to stay, to invest, as I said, to produce, to make in India, to do transfer of technology. I'm not sure that other stakeholders would be ready to do the same. On end-2025 deadline for India-EU FTA ■ In Europe, we have rules not to put barriers in our market. As a matter of fact, the European market is the most open in the world. It means huge opportunities for Indian companies. But, at the same time, we have rules which are there for everybody. Like for our own companies… protecting the environment, for example. It's well known that we have a strong interest in the agri business, in exporting wines, champagne.... For Germany, it will be the automotive sector. India has its own interests. We have to sit around the table and look at all the parameters. I am confident that now there is political will on both sides for that. On Europe and the situation in Ukraine ■ You have to understand there is one aggressor, Russia, and one country that has been invaded — Ukraine. An offer of peace has been put on the table and the US contributed to it. And Ukraine is eager for peace but not Russia. In order to have peace, everybody has to come to the table, including Russia. But that's not the case. Most EU countries now realise they need to take their future into their own hands as far as security and defence is concerned. I'm sure that in a couple of years, when peace is back in Ukraine, you will see a totally different Europe. Our dream, to some extent, would be to have this strategic autonomy at the European level, which is obviously not the case so far. Strategic autonomy and European unity ■ The need for unity and autonomy is clearly shared by all EU members. Ukraine was a real trigger for all of us to understand that we shouldn't rely on outsiders. Look at Germany. The decisions they have taken are historic. Like the next chancellor's decision to invest massively in defence. The way Europe sees itself is changing. But obviously it will take some time. On freedom of press in India ■ Having a strategic partnership and very close relations with India means that we talk of everything. On the French journalist issue, a solution was found. Both countries trust each other and that is the core of the relationship. Easier Schengen visas for tourists ■ When you want to go to France as a tourist, we do our best at the Embassy of France in India to process the visa application in 48 hours after we receive the file. As France is part of Schengen zone, we are also bound by Schengen rules. We really want to welcome more Indian tourists, students, professionals. On India-China thaw ■ Well, I think it's essential for these two big giants in the world and in Asia to find a way to fully normalise their relations. What I said about India being a key for finding solutions to challenges like global health, climate change is true also for China. At some point, the two countries will have to find a way to not just resolve the border issue but also find ways to address the big challenges that the world is facing. The 20th century to some extent or the 19th century was the West's century. Now, all eyes are on Asia. And you have two big players — India and China. We naturally wish they can have normal relations. (This interview happened before the Pahalgam terror attack)
Time of India
01-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Rafale-M roars after Pahalgam: How India's French fighter deal could turn up the heat on Pakistan
India's recent agreement with France to acquire 26 Rafale-Marine aircraft has been described as a strategic move amid ongoing tensions with Pakistan. The timing of the deal—just days after the Pahalgam terror attack—has raised its symbolic and operational significance. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack Nuclear Power! How India and Pakistan's arsenals stack up Does America have a plan to capture Pakistan's nuclear weapons? Airspace blockade: India plots a flight path to skip Pakistan "During such a time, when there is a lot of tension going on between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack , the signing of this deal is going to mount pressure on Pakistan... In the coming days, whatever action India takes against Pakistan, Rafale will play a key role," defence analyst Sanjeev Srivastava told ANI. He added, "This deal will strengthen India's defence position against Pakistan, and it will keep pressure on them also... The aircraft will be operating from India's two aircraft carriers, which are expected to be delivered between 2028 and 2030. But this has happened amid tension and it will, without any doubt, keep the adversaries under pressure." 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by India-France sign $7.5 billion naval Rafale deal The agreement was signed under an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) framework. It includes 22 single-seat Rafale M aircraft and four twin-seat Rafale D jets. The package also includes training modules, simulators, associated weapons, equipment, and a five-year performance-based logistics support system, according to statements from the Indian Ministry of Defence and the French Embassy in India. Present at the signing were France's Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, and India's Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar, along with senior officials and industry partners. This deal marks the first-ever export order for the naval version of the Rafale jet, manufactured by Dassault Aviation . Live Events Aerospace cooperation with a Make-in-India boost The Rafale M jets, expected to be delivered between 2028 and 2030, will fly from INS Vikrant and support the existing MiG-29K fleet. But the significance of this deal extends beyond new aircraft. It also includes critical clauses for indigenisation. "In line with the Government's thrust on Aatmanirbhar Bharat , the agreement includes Transfer of Technology for integration of indigenous weapons in India. It also includes setting up of production facilities for Rafale Fuselage as well as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facilities for aircraft engine, sensors, and weapons in India,' said the Ministry of Defence. The Transfer of Technology clause could enable integration of the Indian-made beyond visual range missile, Astra, onto the Rafale platform. Dassault has already begun building a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Uttar Pradesh as part of its offset commitments for previous Rafale purchases. Why interoperability matters for the Navy and Air Force Dassault's Rafale-M won the bid over Boeing's F/A-18 Super Hornet, largely due to its operational compatibility with the Indian Air Force's (IAF) 36 Rafales, already stationed at Ambala and Hasimara. Both services—the IAF and the Navy—will now benefit from shared systems and logistics. This includes the "buddy-buddy" aerial refuelling system, which allows one aircraft to refuel another in flight. Such interoperability improves operational endurance and simplifies maintenance cycles. The IAF operates the Rafale C, and the Navy's Rafale M has a high degree of equipment and airframe commonality with it. This reduces the complexity of training and supply chains. Aiming for more than just aircraft This agreement could also set the stage for future Rafale orders. With its current fleet strength below the sanctioned 42 squadrons, the IAF is exploring options to expand its inventory while avoiding excessive diversification. The push to integrate indigenous weapons, like the Astra missile, requires access to the Rafale's source code—a point of negotiation with Dassault Aviation. Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh has previously cited the British-origin Jaguar as a model, allowing India to regularly upgrade avionics and weapons thanks to licensed production. Replicating this model with the Rafale would support long-term self-reliance and modernisation. Lessons from Mirage: Why domestic production matters India's earlier acquisition of the Mirage 2000 jets highlights the importance of local manufacturing. Between 1982 and 1985, the IAF purchased 51 Mirage jets in flyaway condition. Over the years, spare parts and upgrades became a challenge. India had to procure second-hand jets to cannibalise for spares. Even after a costly upgrade deal with Thales in 2011, the mid-life overhaul of the Mirage fleet has been slow. In contrast, the licensed manufacturing of Jaguars and Su-30 MKIs allowed India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to maintain and upgrade them locally, ensuring longer operational relevance. The Rafale deal now seeks to follow this path. This contract not only equips India's Navy with state-of-the-art jets, but also builds infrastructure for long-term support. The MRO facility in India will also handle depot-level maintenance of the M88 engine—the first such facility outside France. Overhaul of MICA missiles is also planned under this framework. By linking strategic deterrence with domestic capability building, the Rafale-M deal signals more than a weapons purchase. It reflects a broader shift in India's defence policy—towards resilience, preparedness, and industrial self-reliance. Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale M is a proven carrier-based combat aircraft. Deliveries of the Rafale M jets are expected to begin in 2028 and are anticipated to be completed by 2030. The Rafale M jets will operate from INS Vikrant and support the existing Mig-29 K fleet. The Indian Air Force already operates a fleet of 36 Rafale aircraft acquired under a separate deal signed in 2016. These aircraft are based at Ambala and Hasimara. The new deal will raise the total number of Rafale jets in India to 62, significantly boosting the country's fleet of 4.5-generation fighter aircraft.
Business Mayor
01-05-2025
- Business
- Business Mayor
Little to no proficiency in French? No problem. Your path to 200+ French degrees starts with Classes Internationales
Unlocking a new kind of access For overseas students, more than 30 prestigious French universities offer Classes Internationales, a one-year foundation programme. More than 200 university degrees taught in French are directly accessible to Indian high school graduates. Before enrolling in full undergraduate programmes in disciplines including engineering, business, the arts, design, and the social sciences, applicants go through a rigorous academic and language preparatory phase. Entry does not require fluency in French, just at an elementary level. To ensure that they are academically and linguistically equipped by the time they graduate, students learn the language throughout the programme. Why this programme is a game-changer Over the years, France has positioned itself as an affordable yet high-quality education hub for international students. Classes Internationales takes this a step further by offering: A streamlined path from language learning to university admission Full integration support—from orientation to housing and life in France Career development through access to the France Alumni and local internship networks No wasted time: France's three-year undergraduate degree (Licence) keeps students on pace with—or ahead of—their Indian counterparts Many programmes are also offered in apprenticeship mode, where students split their time between classroom learning and paid, hands-on work experience in a relevant industry. After just one year in France, international students become eligible for apprenticeship status, giving them a practical edge and, in many cases, eliminating tuition fees Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, states, 'Classes Internationales is a testament to the strong and growing educational ties between India and France. This initiative not only opens doors to world-class French education for Indian students but also fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding, essential pillars of the Indo-French partnership. By empowering young minds through this programme, we are building a future where knowledge and collaboration transcend borders.' Who can apply? If you are completing high school by summer 2025, turning 18 before year-end, and have an A2 level in French, you are eligible. A2 is a basic conversational level under CEFR, often achieved through school-based instruction. If not, Alliances Françaises across India offer fast-track courses to help students reach A2. Even beginners can apply: some institutions may offer conditional admission if the student completes French training before departure. The 2025 edition: Bigger, broader, and more ambitious With over 30 participating institutions, this second edition offers a wider academic selection than ever before. Programmes are available across a diverse range of fields, including arts, social sciences, engineering, humanities, design, and more. What remains consistent is the structured pathway: one year of foundational preparation, followed by direct access to a French-taught undergraduate degree. This year also brings stronger linkages to industry through expanded apprenticeship opportunities. For Indian students and their families, this means a highly practical benefit—many graduates will finish their degrees with paid work experience, no student debt, and immediate job prospects in France or beyond. Ready to begin? Applying to Classes Internationales is simple: Click here to explore the programmes, and contact the institutions directly. There are no centralised exams—admissions are based on your academic performance and motivation. The French Embassy provides essential support through its Alliances Françaises network across India, helping you meet the required French proficiency and prepare for your journey. Applications are open now until May 15, 2025, for those with an A2-Level proficiency in French. If you are a beginner, you can start French training through Embassy-supported pathways, with some programmes offering a second intake in January 2026. Classes Internationales is more than a study programme—it is your gateway to world-class education, cultural immersion, and career opportunities. Apply before May 15, 2025, and take the first step towards your future. For more details, visit the platform or reach out to the institutions listed.
