French prize in Biberach: a sign of language engagement

French prize in Biberach: a sign of language engagement

Biberach - On Monday after the festival shooting, the ceremonial handover of the renowned French prize of the city of Biberach took place, which rewarded the outstanding achievements of pupils in French every year. This year, 123 young voice enthusiasts received their certificates and book vouchers in the Bishop Proll training center, which underlines the importance of the French language for the city.

The importance of language learning

Brigitte Burger, the chairwoman of the Valence Committee of the Association of Cities Partner Biberach e.V., spoke about her own experiences as a participant in a student exchange 50 years ago during the event. She emphasized that digital translation programs are not a substitute for learning a language. "Personal exchange and getting to know cultures are irreplaceable," said Burger. By immersing it in the way of life of her host family in France, she had learned a lot about their culture and developed itself further. Such experiences are also important to her after school.

Isabelle Thomas from the friends of the French language e.V. also praised the valuable work of the French teachers who promote the interests of the students in language and culture. "The French prize is not only an award, but also an incentive to deal with France in the long term," she explained in her speech, supported by some small gifts that the teachers received.

a lively supporting program

The event was also accompanied by a varied supporting program, which was designed by students from the Realschule of the Bishop-Proll Education Center. Under the direction of Cornelia Beyrle and Julia Straif, the 10th grade presented an appealing video entitled "Voyage Voyage" and an elaborate presentation about their exchange to France. Class 6 provided additional entertainment

The French prize is aimed at pupils from the 6th grade and initially includes schools in Biberach, under which the Dollinger Realschule, the Gymnasium, as well as the junior high school of the Bischof-Proll-Bildungszentrum, the Pestalozzi Gymnasium, the Wieland-Gymnasium and the Waldorf School. Originally launched by a partnership committee in the 1970s, the price aims to motivate the students not only for language control, but also to deal with French culture and society.

a lasting legacy by exchanging

This annual award ceremony is more than just an award. It emphasizes how language skills can make the bridge to a better understanding of neighboring countries. While the world is increasingly digitized, personal contact and cultural exchange remains essential for the personal development of young people. Programs such as this French prize not only promote the love of language, but also create a network that connects students across borders and ensures a lasting legacy of intercultural exchange. Such initiatives are crucial for the formation of an open and informed generation that is able to act and communicate effectively in the global context.

The meaning of languages and intercultural exchange

The acquisition of foreign languages is not only an academic ability, but also an important key to intercultural understanding. In a globalized world, the ability to speak different languages is becoming increasingly necessary. According to the European language spectrum, multilingual individuals can better interact and build understanding of different cultures. The exchange between countries, as Biberach maintains it with Valence, offers students the opportunity to gain new perspectives away from the classroom and thus expand their personal and cultural understanding.

partnership between Biberach and Valence

The city partnership between Biberach and Valence is an important example of successful intercultural exchange. This partnership was launched in 1967 and celebrates its 56th anniversary this year. During this time, numerous programs for schoolchildren and exchange projects to promote the French language and culture were realized. Particular attention is paid to the Integration of pupils that enable personal contact and experience on site. Such programs not only strengthen language skills, but also promote a deeper understanding of the way of life and traditions in the other country.

Yes, the student exchange with Valence has not only given many participants a different view of life in France, but also created permanent connections and friendships. Brigitte Burrichn's experience also illustrated this, which looks back on the positive effects of personal exchange in her youth.

Current statistics on language learning trends

According to the current statistics of the Federal Statistical Office, which illuminate multilingualism in Germany, around 51% of the students learned a foreign language in 2022, with French the third most common language remaining according to English and Spanish. These statistics underline the need to further promote programs such as the French Prize in order to continue to maintain interest in the French language in the future. The increase in pupils inside who participate in language competitions and exchange programs contributes to creating a cross -generational language culture that is essential for future cooperation in Europe.

For information on the consolidation of these language skills, the annual reports of the Ministries of Culture must also be used, which document a growing number of creative concepts to promote language learning. In Germany, special support programs were also initiated in educational institutions to strengthen intercultural skills and language skills.

The commitment of teachers, as is recognized as part of the French Prize, plays a crucial role in language support and intercultural exchange. It not only contributes to the increase in performance of the students, but also prepares them for a life in a multicultural society.