In an effort to increase prospective student interest and broaden awareness of career prospects in French studies, the French Language Education and French Literature Study Programs at the Faculty of Languages and Arts (FBS), Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), have partnered with the Central Java French Language Subject Teacher Conference (MGMP). This collaboration was realized through a series of promotional and socialization safari activities targeting numerous high schools across Central Java.
The initiative, running from late January to mid-February 2026, visited schools that include French in their curriculum. The promotional tour commenced at MAN Temanggung on January 24, followed by SMA Negeri 1 Comal on January 27. In February, the team proceeded to SMA Negeri 1 Kartasura on February 9 and SMK Negeri 1 Kudus on February 10.
During each visit, the promotion team, comprising lecturers and students, delivered comprehensive presentations covering the UNNES new student admission system, the distinctive advantages of both study programs, and graduate career opportunities in French-related fields. To foster an interactive atmosphere, the sessions were complemented by engaging quizzes on French language and culture, which students enthusiastically received.
Coordinator of the French Language Education Study Program, Dr. Mohamad Syaefudin, M.Pd., emphasized that this initiative is a strategic move to connect the program with potential candidates.
“We aim to provide students with a holistic understanding that French is not merely a foreign language, but a gateway to extensive opportunities in sectors such as tourism, diplomacy, hospitality, and the creative industries. Through direct engagement with schools, we hope to inspire the younger generation to see French as a promising future pathway,” stated Dr. Syaefudin.
The high level of enthusiasm from teachers and students was evident throughout the activities. A diverse range of questions was raised, covering technical aspects of registration as well as scholarship opportunities and job prospects for French graduates, reflecting significant interest in the programs offered.
The Acting Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Arts, Prof. Dr. Nur Qudus, M.T., IPM, who fully supports the initiative, expressed his appreciation for the collaborative effort between the study programs and MGMP. He noted that the promotional safari is focused not only on increasing applicant numbers but also on ensuring the quality of prospective students’ understanding.
“Activities like these are not solely aimed at boosting applicant numbers, but also at ensuring that prospective students have a clear understanding of the program they intend to pursue. We are committed to continuously supporting our study programs in reaching talented students from various regions,” affirmed Prof. Nur Qudus.
Beyond academic promotion, these activities align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The outreach contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing inclusive and equitable access to higher education information. Furthermore, the synergy among UNNES, MGMP, and educational institutions reflects the strengthening of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, which aims to expand learning opportunities and develop human resources in language and culture.
Through this series of promotional and outreach activities, it is hoped that more students will be interested in choosing the French Language Education or French Literature Study Programs at FBS UNNES for their higher education, while also reinforcing the presence of French language studies at the secondary education level.
