The Department of French Studies in the Faculty of Humanities of the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Thursday, celebrated the 2011 French day in the university with a call for more interest in the study of French language in the country.

Speaking at the occasion, the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Rosemund Dienye Green-Osahogulu, reiterated the commitment of her administration towards improving the study of French Language in the university through provision of various incentives in the department.

Prof Osahogulu assured the assistance of the university to French department to enable it compete favourably with their counterparts in other institutions across the country.

Represented by the Dean Faculty of Humanities, Mrs Daware Bokowe, described French department as a pace setter in the institution noting that the department was known for their uniqueness in academic excellence.

According to the Vice Chancellor, the lecturers and the students of the department have always engaged themselves in a good conduct, noting that the department has not been subjected to any form of disciplinary action by the university authorities.

She noted that such feat was as a result of committed efforts and collaboration between the lecturers and students of the department and urged them to continue to fly the flag higher.

The Acting Vice Chancellor while commending the department for having an impressive French day celebration, challenged other departments in the institution to emulate  the French department to ensure that they live up to expectations.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Acting Head of Department (French), Mrs Preye Iyala Amadi said the celebration was organised to celebrate this year’s French day in the institution.

Mrs Amadi disclosed that a total of 157 students are currently studying French language in First Degree and NCE in the department.

In a lecture titled, “The Legacies of African Writers”, an erudite scholar and a Professor in French language, Prof. Martins Bestman, x-rayed the contributions of African writers in the development of the region.

He noted that the work of African writers helped in the development of education in the society adding that their works have been celebrated across the globe.

The highlight of the occasion was presentation of drama, songs in French language by the students as well as unveiling of a bill board donated to the department by the French Circle of the institution.