The French Institute of Turkmenistan has announced a large-scale series of competitions “La Francophonie 2026” aimed at promoting the French language and supporting talented youth. This year’s central theme is “In Motion” (En mouvement).
The program includes a singing competition, an essay contest, and an oral spelling bee. Participation is open to citizens of Turkmenistan aged 17 and older who are currently studying or have previously studied French.
Singing Competition
Participants are invited to submit a video recording of themselves performing a song in French. While the choice of composition is free, it must align with the overall theme of the competition.
- Submission: Videos must be delivered to the French Institute of Turkmenistan on a CD or USB drive.
- Deadline: 13 March 2026, by 18:30.
- Criteria: The jury will select finalists based on pronunciation and articulation, vocal ability, video originality, and thematic relevance. Top performers will have the opportunity to perform live on stage during the finals.
Essay Contest
The writing session will take place on 14 March 2026 at 16:00 at the Institute.
- Registration: Participants must register by 12 March 2026 (18:30) at the Institute’s media library or via email at
ift.culture@gmail.com. - The Topic: The specific prompt will be revealed only on the day of the contest.
- Criteria: Works will be judged on linguistic accuracy, style, adherence to the prompt, and originality. Winners will read their texts on stage during the awards ceremony.
Oral Spelling Bee
This special category is designed specifically for university students studying French as their first or second foreign language. The preliminary rounds will be held at the following institutions:
- Magtymguly Turkmen State University
- Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages
- Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
- Gorogly Turkmen State Institute of Culture
The eight students who achieve the highest scores (first and second place from each qualifying round) will be invited to the final. The deciding round will feature a “one-on-one” direct elimination duel format.
Key Dates
- 23 February – 12 March 2026: Registration period for the essay contest.
- 13 March 2026: Deadline for submitting singing competition videos.
- 14 March 2026: Essay contest takes place.
- 4 April 2026: Grand Finale and Awards Ceremony (date to be confirmed).
The organizers emphasize that these events strengthen cultural ties and increase interest in the French language among the youth of Turkmenistan. The competitions serve as a platform for self-expression, exchange of experience, and creative growth. ///French Institute in Turkmenistan