Wesley is a final-year student enrolled in the Japanese language program at NTU’s Centre for Modern Languages. He began his Japanese learning journey during his polytechnic years in 2018, attending weekend Japanese classes consistently, which helped him build a strong foundation and qualify for the JLPT N5.

Following this, Wesley continued to develop his Japanese independently through self-study, online resources, and structured courses on platforms such as Udemy. His discipline and long-term commitment paid off when he successfully obtained the JLPT N2 certification in July 2025.

Recognizing that language proficiency goes beyond reading and listening skills, Wesley enrolled in NTU’s Japanese language classes to further strengthen his writing and speaking abilities. Through regular interaction with experienced Japanese instructors and active participation with classmates, he gained valuable feedback and opportunities to practice the language in meaningful contexts. His involvement in the Japanese Appreciation Club (JAC) and activities such as the Japanese Corner also allowed him to engage with Japanese exchange students, discuss real-life topics, and build cross-cultural friendships.

Wesley is deeply grateful for the learning opportunities provided through NTU’s Japanese language program, which have played a significant role in his language development.

Five CML Students Achieve Success in DELF French Examinations

The CML French lecturers warmly congratulate the NTU French students who successfully passed their French Diplomas (DELF) recently.

Clarence Sim took the DELF B2 to open doors for living and working abroad, increased by his love for travel. Dreaming of a future in countries like France or Canada, Clarence sees the DELF as a passport to global opportunities. A language immersion program at CLA Besançon helped accelerate his progress.

Tan Ken-i pursued the DELF B2 with a specific goal: working in Toulouse, the hub of the aerospace industry. He is also thinking long-term; should he choose to teach or pursue further studies, the B2 certification will grant him access to French universities.

Kong Zheng Yao has been passionate about foreign languages for years, leading him to study French for the last four. Having recently attained his DELF B2, Zheng Yao views language mastery as the key to cultural integration and career success, whether he is working in France or pursuing a path in international business or translation.

Parvathi Prajeesh has been learning French since secondary school and continued to sharpen her skills through the LF5005 to LF5007 courses at NTU. Her DELF B2 certification paves the way for future opportunities to study or work in France.

Jolynne Tan began her French journey with a dream of pursuing a master’s degree in France. Now in her final year at NTU, she brilliantly passed the DELF A2 after completing only Level 1 at CML! Thanks to her hard work and the incredible support of her lecturer, Francesca Manganelli, she reached this milestone after just 36 contact hours.

To each of you: SUPERBE! We are truly impressed and wish all our students' dreams (in French or for French) come true in 2026.

Celebrating Excellence in Spanish Language Learning

The Spanish Language Department at the Centre for Modern Languages (CML), NTU, is proud and delighted to announce that four of our outstanding students have been awarded the prestigious Annie Tan (Mrs Wan Boo Sow) Southeast Asian Languages Prize! This annual award, administered by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, recognises graduating female students at NTU for their bilingual and bicultural achievements, alongside exceptional academic performance. On top of this wonderful recognition, all four students have also expressed their intention to graduate with a Minor in Spanish — a true testament to their passion for language learning and multiculturalism.

A huge ENHORABUENA  to these inspiring students for their dedication to learning Spanish and their continuous commitment to cross-cultural  and language understanding:

WONG KAI TING CATHRYN
Bachelor of Arts in English
Prize awarded for: LS5004 (Spanish Intermediate 2)
NUR HAZIRAH BINTE HAMZAH
Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Multilingual Studies
Prize awarded for: LS5002 (Spanish Beginner 2)
CUA RHEA JASMIN BOQUIRON
Bachelor of Engineering in Information Engineering and Media
Prize awarded for: LS5003  (Spanish Intermediate 1)   
LEONG SHI XUAN
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
Prize awarded for: LS5004  (Spanish Intermediate 2)

Three NTU students have been awarded a France Excellence Master’s Scholarship

In 2025, three NTU students have been awarded the prestigious France Excellence Master’s Scholarship to pursue their graduate studies in France. While one is advancing in Molecular Biology, two others are deepening their expertise in Mathematics at Université Paris‑Saclay and Paris Dauphine - PSL.

Among them, Yicheng Zhu, a recent graduate in Mathematical Sciences from NTU, is now based in Paris where she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Applied and Theoretical Mathematics at Université Paris Dauphine – PSL. Supported by the scholarship, Yicheng is working on real‑world challenges she cares deeply about, including oncology and cell biology through applied mathematics, theoretical modelling, and numerical analysis.

Her story for French Language and Culture began at the Centre for Modern Languages at NTU. What started as curiosity grew into a passion for the language, the culture, and the idea of studying in France. Today, alongside lectures and research meetings, Yicheng is also learning the everyday essentials of life abroad: navigating French systems, building a new support network, and feeling at home in a city that once seemed intimidating. The French she learned at CML makes a real difference in these moments, helping her fully embrace Parisian life. Step by step, Yicheng is growing as a young international researcher.

NTU Students Honoured with Best Arabic Student Award

Our students from the Centre for Modern Languages (CML) proudly represented the Arabic Language Programme at the 12th Annual Al Wehdah Bursary Disbursement Ceremony, where they were honoured with the Best Arabic Student Award.

The award was presented by Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs and Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs. The event was also graced by His Excellency Ahmad Abdulrahman Naser Al Shuraim, Ambassador to Singapore, State of Kuwait.

From French Classes to Cockpit

Shu Qin Chia, a final-year Aerospace Engineering student at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, began her journey with the French language in her first year, enrolling in French Level 1 at the Centre for Modern Languages (CML) out of a deep passion for French culture and linguistics.

Her interest in Airbus, a global leader in aerospace, was longstanding. So when she landed a professional internship with Airbus Singapore under Airbus Avionics, through NTU’s internship programme with French companies, it was a dream come true. Her proficiency in French played a key role in securing the opportunity, making the experience not only professionally enriching but personally rewarding.This professional  experience deepened her understanding of how business and operations integrate within the aviation sector, and collaborating virtually with colleagues in Toulouse offered her valuable insights into French working culture.

Her time at Airbus inspired her to pursue French further: she will be advancing to LF5005 (French Level 5) next semester (Félicitations!) and plans to take the DELF examination before graduating. This experience has also reinforced her aspiration to work with a French aviation company in Singapore, where she can continue improving her French proficiency and explore business opportunities that may one day bring her to France.

NTU Russian language student awarded scholarship for Masters's studies in Russia

Russell Phun, a graduate of Nanyang Technological University (NTU), has been awarded a scholarship to pursue his Master’s degree in Russia. He will be studying at one of the country’s top universities — Higher School of Economics (HSE).

Before leaving for Moscow, Russell and his Russian language teacher, Elena Ermilova, visited the Russian Embassy, where Russell shared his thoughts and plans for studying in the Russian capital. The conversation was conducted in Russian, and Russell demonstrated remarkable proficiency in the language. Read more

DAAD and the Goethe-Institut at the German Department/ CML

Dr. Guido Schnieders, the Director of the Regional DAAD office in Jakarta and Annika Koehler, the DAAD Centre Manager in Singapore came to NTU for an info session on study opportunities in Germany.

The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is a non-profit organization that is largely financed by the German government. It is the world’s largest funding organisation for international exchange with more than 140.000 grant recipients per year.

The talk included general information about the higher education and research system in Germany as well as examples of the DAAD’s individual scholarship programmes.

Martina Schmid-Lindenmayer from the Goethe-Institut, Singapore was also present to inform students about the institute’s internationally recognised A1 – C2 German language exams and certificates. These exams follow the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), an international standard for describing language ability. Thus, Goethe language certificates can be of particular interest for NTU students who plan to study in Germany in the future.

Both, the DAAD and the Goethe-Institut, provided valuable information to students and the talk ended with a Q&A session.

Online Exchange with Showa Women’s University (Tokyo)

The Japanese Language department recently hosted its first-ever online exchange with Showa Women’s University, Tokyo. Building on past collaborations with SWU and JAC, the event focused on omotenashi—the Japanese art of hospitality.

NTU students from Levels 1, 4, and 7 had the opportunity to practice Japanese, engage in cultural discussions, and connect with their Japanese peers, all while gaining valuable insights into Japanese traditions and culture.

Pre-Japanese Cultural Exchange Program

Led by Dr. Shinozaki, NTU students who previously participated in the Language Immersion Program  (LIP) at Waseda University joined a series of cultural and educational activities in Japan. The program  aimed to deepen cross-cultural understanding and provide students with more opportunities to interact with Japanese peers.

During the exchange, NTU students engaged in:
Japanese Tanabata Festival in Asakusa, experiencing traditional celebrations.
Exchange session at Seijo Gakuen Junior High School, where they discussed and played games with local students.
Visit to Showa Women’s University Elementary School, where they were warmly welcomed with a Japanese festival prepared by the children.

Students shared that their time at Showa Women’s Elementary School was particularly memorable, as the vibrant festival atmosphere created meaningful interactions with the children. The program  also included a company visit to CAL, a Japanese IT firm that had visited NTU earlier this year, and a special opportunity to attend a live concert by K-pop artist UK, who composes music in Japanese. This unique program  allowed NTU students to experience Japan’s cultural diversity first-hand, while building connections with local communities at different educational levels.

Four French Students Awarded Scholarship to Explore Language, Science, and Culture in France

This summer, 4 students in French from NTU, Iskandar, Kong Zheng Yao, Joel The Harn Yang and a fourth one, set off on an unforgettable adventure through the French + Sciences Summer 2025 Program, all thanks to the generous support of Campus France and the French Embassy in Singapore.

Each of them chose a different track in Normandy, Brest, and Besançon, diving into subjects that truly piqued their interest, from Sustainable Energy, Marine Science to Nanophotonics and Quantum Computing. Their mornings were filled with engaging French language classes, while afternoons were dedicated to hands-on experiences and visits in research labs, nuclear plants, and cleanrooms. Along the way, they immersed themselves in the charm of French culture by attending local festivals such as La Fête de la musique, savouring regional dishes, and exploring stunning landscapes like the Etretat cliffs that inspired Monet paintings.

“It helped me improve my French and deepen my understanding of sustainable energy,” Iskandar shared, who was part of the Focus on Energy and Decarbonisation track in Normandy. Joel, in Besançon, echoed his thoughts, saying, “It was an incredible blend of learning and discovery… and I was struck by the peaceful pace of life in France compared to Singapore.”

For all of them, this experience was a chance to grow, connect, and view the world with a fresh perspective. They returned home with new friendships, enriched knowledge, and a heartfelt wish to return to France someday, whether to study, work, or simply relive the magic!

CML French students passed DELF exams in 2025

NTU Student Fiona Ho Achieves DALF C1 in French!

The entire French teaching team is very proud to celebrate NTU student, Fiona Ho, who achieved the DALF C1 level in French as of March 2025!

The DALF C1 (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) certifies an advanced, near-native command of the French language and is recognised around the world by universities and employers alike.

 Fiona’s love for French began in a unique way—with the musical Mozart, l’Opéra Rock by Dove Attia. Captivated by the powerful songs, she began learning the lyrics and singing them on her own. That passion soon turned into a deeper interest in the language itself.

With an exchange at Sciences Po on the horizon—a prestigious institution in France—Fiona felt inspired to challenge herself even further by sitting for the DALF C1 exam. It wasn’t an easy journey, but with dedication, perseverance, and the warm support of Mr. Jean-François Noël Ghesquière, the French teaching team, and her classmates, she made it happen.

 Today, Fiona can very confidently discuss complex scientific topics in the language. And while the certificate is a great achievement, what really stands out is how much the journey has shaped her—building her flexibility, sharpening her thinking, and deepening her empathy for others learning a new language.

 For Fiona, this is just the beginning. Her goal? To pursue a PhD in Chemistry at Sorbonne University in Paris. With her strong French skills, she’ll be able to collaborate with francophone researchers and contribute meaningfully to the academic community.

 Félicitations, Fiona! We’re so proud of you. Your achievement is a true inspiration—not only for your NTU students in French but for anyone striving to reach their goals with heart and determination.

CML Student in French achieved DELF B2 with A+ grade!

Today, we are proud to celebrate Tse Wei Chai for achieving the DELF B2 certification (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) with an A+ grade! 🎉

The DELF B2 is often a requirement for admission to French universities, making it a valuable asset for those considering further studies in France or other Francophone regions.

It also enhances career prospects in fields such as international business, diplomacy, and aeronautics, where proficiency in French is a key advantage.

Tse Wei Chai prepared for this milestone by completing LF5001 – French Language Level 1 at our Centre for Modern Language and then accelerating his progress to B2 level through participating in a language immersion program at Université Marie et Pierre Pasteur.

This experience allowed him to rapidly refine his skills and gain the confidence needed to excel at this level.

In 2024, two CML students in French successfully earned the DELF B2 certification, continuing the tradition of excellence in our French language programs.

The entire team of French lecturers congratulates Tse Wei and all our students on this well-earned success.

Félicitations! 🇫🇷👏

CML student in French obtained DELF B1 with A+ grade!

Congratulations to Charlotte Seah for successfully attaining the DELF B1 (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) certification with an A+ grade! 🎉

Awarded by the French Ministry of Education, the DELF is an internationally recognized credential that certifies French language proficiency.

Beyond language mastery, achieving DELF B1 opens doors to scholarships, internships, French nationality, and even academic studies in French-speaking countries.

Charlotte’s success is no coincidence.

In addition to being a Dean’s List Top 5% student for several consecutive semesters, she has consistently demonstrated a passion for French.

Her French classes at Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Centre for Modern Language, combined with her immersion study trip in France at CLA Besançon - Université de Franche Comté, and her experience as a substitute teacher at the International French School (Singapore), played a crucial role in strengthening her skills.

 Last year, seven CML students of French from Nanyang Technological University Singapore successfully obtained the DELF B1 certification with Alliance Française de Singapour.

The entire team of French lecturers is incredibly proud of Charlotte and all our students who have reached this milestone.

Félicitations! 👏

CML Student of Spanish Excels in the DELE B2 Examination

Congratulations to Rachel Wee Hui Ying for successfully passing the DELE B2 (Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera) examination in July 2024! The DELE certificates, issued by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture, and Sport, are internationally recognised credentials that certify Spanish language proficiency.

Achieving the B2 level is a significant milestone. This level is often the minimum requirement for participating in university exchange programs with Spanish-speaking countries and for admission into programmes taught in Spanish.

She prepared for this achievement by completing LS5004 – Spanish Language Level 4 module at NTU, which undoubtedly contributed to her strong foundation in Spanish.

We are proud of Rachel’s accomplishment and wish her continued success in her academic and linguistic journey!

NTU Students Shine at the Spanish LIP Winter Programme 2024

In December 2024, 36 NTU students participated in the Spanish LIP Winter Programme at the Universidad de Alicante, completing the equivalent of NTU's Level 1 Spanish course. Immersed in a vibrant learning environment, they not only honed their Spanish language skills but also delved into the local culture through exciting activities, such as an excursion to Alicante and the iconic Castillo de Santa Bárbara, a day trip to Valencia, and a Spanish cooking workshop, where they mastered the art of tapas and traditional dishes.

This unforgettable experience combined academic achievement with cultural exploration, fostering language skills, cultural appreciation, and lifelong memories.

Congratulations to our students for their enthusiasm and dedication in making this programme a resounding success!

Exciting New Awards for Outstanding Arabic Learners by AlWehdah Singapore!

In a continued effort to support and promote Arabic language learning, The Arab Association Singapore (Al-Wehdah Al-Arabiyah Bi Singhafura) is proud to introduce three prestigious awards for the top-performing Arabic students in CML for levels LA5001, LA5002, and LA5003.

We are thrilled to announce our very first award recipients, who have truly excelled and met all the requirements for this honour:

• LA5001 (Level 1): Nurul Huda Binte Muhammad Akmal Tay
• LA5002 (Level 2): Nur Madianah Bte Mazlan
• LA5002 (Level 2): Faaiza Abdusalaam

Each of these exceptional students has been awarded $300 SGD in recognition of their hard work, dedication, and achievement.

AlWehdah Singapore congratulates these students on their outstanding performance and looks forward to seeing even more success in the future!

An NTU Student Leverages French to Embark on a Career in the Diplomatic World!

Erica HO Li Vun, a recent NTU graduate with a Bachelor of Social Sciences in Public Policy and Global Affairs, and minors in Modern Languages (French) and Entrepreneurship, has turned her passion for French into a career advantage.

Inspired by the nuanced French terms she encountered in her major, she began studying the language and, in December 2022, immersed herself in French culture through NTU’s Winter Language Immersion Programme in Besançon at CLA Besançon - Université de Franche Comté

After completing her studies at NTU, she earned her DELF B1 international certification in French, adding valuable credentials to her resume.

Now, she is building on her language skills and career as an Executive Assistant at the Institut Français de Singapour, Campus France, Ambassade de France à Singapour, with aspirations to pursue a Master’s in Diplomacy and International Affairs in France.

NTU French Student Secures Scholarship to Pursue Master’s Degree in France!

Pursuing a Master’s in Embedded Systems in the beautiful "pink" city of Toulouse, France, Sherene Sohail is a proud recipient of the Campus France Master's Excellence Scholarship. Her journey began at the Centre for Modern Languages, School of Humanities, at NTU, where she took French classes and discovered this scholarship opportunity through an ad from Campus France, Ambassade de France à Singapour, relayed by the French Department.

With the personal guidance of Campus France in Singapore, Sherene is thriving in a vibrant, multicultural engineering landscape that challenges her academically and enriches her experience with hands-on projects and connections with peers from around the globe.
She has seamlessly adapted to French culture and daily life thanks to her previous involvement in CML and French language classes.

NTU French Student Awarded a Scholarship by the French Embassy in Singapore!

After learning about the French+Science program from a mass email sent by the French coordinator at Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Tam Xinhui seized the opportunity to explore her passion for Sea technology while enhancing her French by attending the program Science and Technology of the Sea at CIEL Bretagne.

Her journey has been both professionally and personally enriching. As the only Singaporean in her program, she developed invaluable communication and teamwork skills while collaborating with diverse peers who became lifelong friends. Through visits to various businesses and NGOs, Tam witnessed innovation in action—exploring fields from marine biology to skincare production and oil spill management. Her excursions to stunning sites like Mont Saint Michel further enriched her experience.

This adventure deepened her cultural curiosity and solidified her desire to return to France for further studies or work. Now, as she thrives in the satellite office of a European company, Tam recognizes how this program has prepared her for a global career.

The Centre for Applied Linguistics (CLA) of @fc_univ has been pleased to welcome nineteen students from the prestigious Nanyang Technological University (NTU) for a month. Since July 8th, they have been participating in intensive French courses and exploring French culture through educational outings and a diverse programme of cultural activities.

The partnership between NTU and CLA, established in 2019, has already enabled 147 NTU students to experience the French language and culture in an immersive environment.

More info on Instagram: CLA Besançon