Alliance Française Empowers Port Harcourt Students with Lessons on Law and Civic Values

The Alliance Française, Port Harcourt, a renowned language institute and non-governmental organisation, has educated over 160 students and pupils on legal systems and civic principles across various countries, including France and Nigeria.

According to the centre, the initiative was designed to help young learners understand the relevance of law in everyday life and promote civic awareness among emerging citizens.

Speaking with South-South Punch during a quiz competition held at the institute’s office in GRA, Port Harcourt, the Director of Alliance Française, Mrs. Marina Lacal, said the event—supported by the French Embassy in Nigeria—was part of activities marking La Journée du Droit (“The Legal Day”).

Mrs. Lacal explained that the programme, which featured four schools and two tertiary institutions in Rivers State, sought to promote the French language through discussions on law and diplomacy.

“La Journée du Droit is an initiative that aims to promote French through the study of law, highlight how legal systems connect communities, and emphasize law as a key pillar of French diplomacy,” she said. “It also reinforces Alliance Française’s mission to foster intercultural dialogue, civic awareness, and the learning of French as a language of knowledge and citizenship.”

Participating schools included Surebloom International School, Pleroma High School, Casterly Rock Secondary School, and TotalEnergies Port Harcourt School, alongside students from the University of Port Harcourt and Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.

The event featured interactive quiz sessions that explored legal rules and civic principles in Nigeria, France, and other nations such as Singapore and Botswana. Questions were presented in French and translated into English to ensure full comprehension.

Mrs. Lacal noted that the students showed impressive engagement despite initial challenges, adding that the programme encouraged reflection on universal rights and responsibilities while promoting justice, equality, and mutual respect.

The event concluded with the presentation of prizes to quiz winners and souvenirs for all participants.