Message from the Dean on the occasion of the launch of Francophonie Month 2026

It is with immense pride that I address you today as we mark the launch of Francophonie Month 2026. This year is not like any other. It is a year of recognition, ambition and brilliance, as 2026 has been officially proclaimed the "Year of Francophonie" in Alberta. This is a historic opportunity to remind ourselves that our language is not just a local heritage: it is the heartbeat of a vibrant global Francophonie.

In Western Canada, and particularly here in Alberta, the French language is not just a simple communication tool; it is the historical foundation upon which our province was built. From the deep roots of our pioneers to the rise of our modern institutions, French is a pillar of our history and an essential guarantor of national unity. As a linguistic minority, proudly carrying our two official languages is an act of identity affirmation that defines the very essence of Canada. French is a bridge of light between nations and cultures, uniting continents and peoples in a global dialogue. By speaking French here in Alberta, we connect with a humanity in motion, rich in diversity and strong in solidarity.

While identity and community arguments are fundamental, economic arguments are just as important, especially in these times of market diversification. In a rapidly changing world, French is a major strategic asset for Alberta. Mastery of this language opens the doors to the global Francophone market, an area of growth with unprecedented opportunities. Campus Saint-Jean is now positioning itself as an international hub, forging concrete links with emerging markets and strengthening its connections with partners throughout the French-speaking world. This openness to the world makes our institution a driver of innovation and a vector of development for the entire region.

Look how far we've come: our Campus has never been so vibrant.

• More and more members of our student body are choosing the excellence of our programmes.
• The stronger is the voice of our next generation, who are passionately embracing knowledge.
• Our influence is greater thanks to the exceptional growth of our student body.

This academic vitality is brilliantly embodied in our doctoral programme, a true flagship of which we are immensely proud. It is here that cutting-edge research is written in French; it is here that innovation is conceived in French; it is here that the minds that will transform tomorrow's world and evolve on an increasingly interconnected global stage are forged.

But for our pride to bear fruit, it must not remain confined within our walls. Promoting French means first and foremost promoting it outside our community. Promoting our culture means reaching out to others. That is why, throughout this month, we will be increasing our awareness-raising and discovery activities within other communities. Among other things, we will bring our enthusiasm and our language to the University of Alberta's North Campus to invite our colleagues to discover the beauty and relevance of the Francophonie. It is by reaching out that we build bridges between our worlds and demonstrate that Alberta's Francophonie is modern, successful and economically indispensable.

At Campus Saint-Jean, we are building this future on three inseparable pillars:

• Unity, to bring us together around a common vision and a strong Canadian identity;
• Diversity, to turn our diverse roots into a creative force;
• and the University, to uphold the standards of critical thinking and intellectual rigour.

To mark this pivotal year, we have prepared a rich and varied programme of events, designed as a grand community celebration. This month belongs to you. It is a time to meet, to exchange ideas, and to affirm together that French in Alberta is resolutely focused on the future. As we celebrate 2026, let's keep our eyes on the horizon: this excitement is just the prelude to another major milestone. I look forward to seeing you in 2027 for the 50th anniversary of the Faculté Saint-Jean, half a century of excellence, resilience and diversity that we will begin preparing for together this year.

I invite you to discover all the festivities and actively participate in this celebration on our website: Campus Saint-Jean programme.

Let's make Francophonie Month 2026 a historic moment for Campus Saint-Jean, the University of Alberta, and our entire province.

Have a wonderful month of celebrations and long live Francophonie!

Jason Carey
Dean of Campus Saint-Jean