Unila promotes development of Kampung Prancis in Metro
Bandarlampung (ANTARA) - Dr. Arie Fitria, S.I.P., D.E.A., M.T., a lecturer at the University of Lampung (Unila), continues to promote the development of the French Village (Village Français) in Metro City as a space for the community to learn the French language and culture, whilst also serving as an effort to preserve the area’s history.
“The presence of the Village Français can bring benefits, such as preserving history whilst having an impact on local residents, so that it can contribute to improving the quality of human resources,” she said in a statement received in Bandarlampung on Friday.
She explained that the French Village was inaugurated on 24 August 2025 through a collaboration between the University of Lampung and the Metro City Government. To date, the community has 32 members joined in a WhatsApp group, whilst around 20 residents, together with their children, actively take part in regular learning activities.
“The development of the French Village is being carried out together with French language enthusiasts, with support from the Lampung chapter of the Indonesian Association of France Alumni (IAPI), including the Unila Rector, Irfan Nuranda Djakfar,” she said.
She explained that the establishment of the French Village stemmed from the history of the Kaledonia Block in Totokaton Village, which became home to some descendants of Indonesian workers who had once settled in New Caledonia, a French territory, before returning to Indonesia after independence.
“That history forms the basis of the Village Français as a learning space to introduce the French language and culture, whilst also safeguarding the historical heritage of the people of Metro,” she said.
Arie said that learning at the French Village focuses not only on language proficiency but also on introducing French culture, including gastronomy, through International Community Service (ICS) activities.
“Learning is delivered through lectures, practical sessions, and by bringing in native speakers so that participants gain direct learning experiences,” she said.
She said enthusiasm for the French Village among the public continues to grow. Not only local residents, but also people from outside the area have begun seeking information about the activities and learning materials organised by the community.
“Beyond improving language skills, learning about French culture also aims to develop participants’ adaptability and international outlook. Through learning the French language and culture, participants can enhance their soft skills, including the ability to adapt to foreigners and gain insight in international settings,” she said.
Arie added that the French Village receives support from Unila and the Metro City Government as part of efforts to strengthen Metro’s position as a city of education.
“Going forward, we will open up opportunities for more French language enthusiasts, as well as members of the public who speak French, to contribute to the community’s development, so that its benefits can be felt more widely,” she said.