For more than 15 years, I have dedicated my career to teaching French, a language I deeply value for its cultural richness and global significance. However, the recent introduction of the CBSE three-language policy threatens not only my profession but the countless students who benefit from learning French in our school system.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has recently implemented a policy that mandates students to learn three specific languages, which may lead to French losing its place as an elective. This change overlooks the importance of French as one of the official languages of the United Nations and an essential language for international diplomacy, business, and cultural exchange. It limits the students’ ability to engage with a major world language that broadens their global perspective and enhances their future career prospects.

The decision especially impacts students in India who aspire to further their studies or pursue careers in countries where French is the primary language, such as Canada, parts of Europe, and several countries across Africa. The exclusion of French from the language curriculum compromises the diverse educational opportunities we strive to provide.

Moreover, as someone who has invested more than 20 years into understanding and imparting the nuances of French language, literature, and culture, this policy puts my professional life at risk. This sudden change disregards the professional stability of experienced educators dedicated to fostering linguistic diversity in India.

I urge the CBSE to reconsider this policy and allow French to remain a viable option within the curriculum. It is crucial that our education system reflects the multilingual and multicultural realities of the world our students are preparing to enter.

Join me in advocating for a more inclusive language policy that respects the role of French in the global community. Please sign this petition to support the future of our students and educators.