ColibriSupport for students and researchers in exile

In 2015, against the backdrop of the war in Syria and the arrival of large numbers of refugees in Europe, the UGA created a diploma for students in exile. This intensive course in French language, culture, and academic methodology provides a real bridge to French higher education. Since 2019, thanks to the efforts of the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF) and the ADCUEFE¹  and the Migrants in National Higher Education (MENS) network, it is recognized and accredited at the national level, like 41 other university diplomas in France.  

Since its creation, this program has welcomed 190 students in Grenoble, enabling them to acquire the prerequisites necessary to enroll in higher education courses at French universities. Each year, it caters to a cohort of around 20 people, who receive support with their study plans and integration.

Video of the event

 

A study day to celebrate 10 years of commitment

To mark this anniversary, a study day rich in discussions, testimonials, and reflections was held on the Grenoble campus, bringing together project leaders, former students, teachers, and representatives from other universities engaged in the same dynamic.
The day began with a three-way discussion between the founders of the Grenoble Passerelle University Diploma, who recalled the urgent circumstances and commitment that led to the creation of this program in 2015, when large numbers of Syrian refugees arrived in France. Their testimony highlighted the solidarity shown by universities and institutions, which made the creation of this program possible.

Ten years after its creation in response to an urgent need, this university diploma is now a permanent fixture in the UGA's range of courses.

Review, testimonials, outlook, and graduation ceremony on the agenda for the day

During the day, seven former DU students shared their experiences, highlighting how this program had been a decisive factor in their decision to return to education, find employment, or integrate into French society.

The day also provided an opportunity to compare experiences with other universities involved in similar programs. A round table discussion bringing together representatives from the DU Passerelle programs in Lille, Lyon, Paris, Le Mans, and Grenoble highlighted the diversity of pedagogical and organizational approaches, while reaffirming a common goal: to offer students in exile a real springboard to higher education.

Far from simply taking stock, the day also looked to the future. Workshops and experimental modules set up with the class of 2024-2025 were presented, illustrating the constant work of educational innovation carried out by the CUEF - UGA team.

A particularly eagerly awaited moment, the graduation ceremony honored the graduating students of the class of 2024-2025, who were moved to receive their diplomas from Elisabeth Grandjacquet, Director of Studies for this university diploma program.

The day ended with a screening of the film Even if you go to the moon, recounting the experiences of Syrian students who took a DU Passerelle course in Paris.

A fundamental commitment enshrined in university policy

Beyond this day, the DU Passerelle reflects a broader commitment by UGA to welcoming exiles: the Colibri space, the COFORMER program, scholarships funded by the UGA Foundation, support for researchers in danger... All of these initiatives demonstrate the institution's desire to make the university an open and supportive place.

César Ghaouti, Deputy Director of Partnerships at the UGA Foundation, also highlighted the importance of sponsorship, through its Students in Exile Fund, in supporting people fleeing their war-torn countries who wish to continue their studies.

All these actions are included in the university's CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Master Plan, adopted in 2021. UGA is also an active member of the MENS network, which currently includes 56 higher education institutions.