On 27 March 2026, Mae Fah Luang University (MFU), through the French-Upper Mekong Sub-region Academic Cooperation Centre, in collaboration with Alliance Française de Chiang Rai, hosted “Francophonie Day 2026.” Supported by the Embassies of France, Belgium, and Luxembourg in Thailand, the event aimed to promote the French language and cultural diversity while strengthening ties among member countries of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF).
More than 50 students from Damrongratsongkroh School, Maechan Wittayakhom School, and MFU participated in a series of interactive workshops at the Puang Chompoo-Phu Rahong Meeting Room, M-Square. The programme featured four interactive stations: Creating a User’s Guide to Diplomacy, Passport Challenge, Negotiating While in Crisis, and Diplomacy Board Game.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Vice President of MFU. The event brought together invited speakers, including Ms. Flavie Lepoutre, French Lecturer, School of Liberal Arts, and Director of the French-Upper Mekong Sub-region Academic Cooperation Centre; Mrs. Songsavan Barretto, French Lecturer, School of Liberal Arts; Ms. Héloïse Sangan, Director of Alliance Française of Chiang Rai; and Ms. Typhanie Casad, Teacher at Alliance Française of Chiang Rai.
During the opening ceremony, Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont stated, “Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) recognises the vital importance of foreign language learning and the promotion of cultural diversity, which serve as essential keys to strengthening international cooperation. This is especially significant in March, the month dedicated to celebrating the French language—a language spoken by over 321 million people across 88 states and governments. We are proud that MFU plays a part in this successful effort to foster multicultural understanding, reflecting the truly global reach of the French language. In 2026, this event is being held under the theme of 'Diplomacy,' with France serving as the host. This occasion also proudly celebrates the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and France, honouring the long and profound historical ties between our two nations.”
