by Filipe Albessu Narciso – on June 22, 2022

On June 22, 2022, the International Intercultural Center (CII) inaugurated the France Corner, a space dedicated to the diffusion of French culture and to promote exchange and extension opportunities in the European country. The space is a cooperative initiative between the University of São Paulo and the Consulate General of France in São Paulo.

Third corner to be a part of the CII, France follows the nations of South Korea and Israel in building the international atmosphere of the Center. During the inauguration ceremony, French Consul General in São Paulo, Yves Teyssier d’Orfeuil, declared that “it is a pleasure to inaugurate a cozy French corner at USP, having so many other countries as neighbors. Traveling enables [anyone] to get in touch with different cultures. [It] broadens our horizons, enriches the soul and expands our social networks. Our purpose here is to inspire students to discover the richness of French culture”.

Representing USP president Carlos Gilberto Carlotti Júnior at the inauguration ceremony, the pro-rector of Culture and University Extension Marli Quadros Leite reminded the French roots of USP, referencing its foundation almost 90 years ago with the support of remarkable french scholars. France is one of the most important academic collaborators of the Institutions and it is the country in the world that most welcomes USP exchange students.

The inauguration ceremony of the France Corner was attended by managers, researchers and consulate representatives of a variety of countries. Aucani’s president, professor Sergio Persival Baroncini Proença, reinforced the relevance of the Center for the internationalization of USP. “One of Aucani’s objectives is to offer our students an opportunity of international experience during their graduation. However, as it is not possible to send all our students abroad, the [Center’s] objective is to offer an international environment inside the University. Relying on the collaboration of our partner consulates, the Center will offer even more activities such as exhibitions, workshops and courses”. 

Inaugurated last year, the CII is prepared to receive other countries in its space, such as China, India and Ireland. The Center also offers the Academic Reception Office, which provides information regarding exchange procedures, documentation with the Brazilian Federal Police and welcomes delegations that visit the University annually.

Check out the France Corner’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/uspfrancecorner/