A French Language and Culture Crash Course, led by Mr. Enzo Muñoz from the MEEF Master’s Degree program in Teaching Abroad at INSPÉ de Toulouse, Université Toulouse II, took place at the West Visayas State University (WVSU)-Pototan Campus on March 21, 2025.

This crash course is part of WVSU International and Local Linkages Office’s continuing efforts to broaden the horizons of its students. Specifically designed for Hotel and Management students, the program provided participants with an immersive experience in French language and culture.

Dr. Raymund B. Gemora, Campus Administrator of WVSU Pototan, welcomed the participants, highlighting the importance of foreign exchange programs in promoting cultural diversity. He emphasized how such initiatives provide new perspectives, ideas, and teaching approaches, which can lead to innovation in the classroom. “This foreign exchange internship is a significant opportunity for WVSU, allowing us to bring in new perspectives that can help us stay competitive in the globalized educational landscape,” Dr. Gemora said. He also acknowledged the unique skills foreign interns bring, such as language proficiency, global market knowledge, and technical expertise, all of which are valuable assets for the university.

Mr. Muñoz guided the students through basic French vocabulary, greetings, and cultural insights, encouraging a hands-on, interactive learning environment that helped students not only learn the language but also understand the nuances of French customs, etiquette, and traditions.

The skills gained from the crash course, particularly the practical application of the language, will serve as a valuable asset to students pursuing careers in a global industry where multilingualism and cross-cultural competence are key.

By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO