As part of the exchange and cooperation program, nearly 20 students of military lyceum Saint-Cyr studied took Kazakh, Russian languages and other classes in Astana’s 17th gymnasium. The purpose of the one-week exchange program is to strengthen the Kazakh-French cultural ties, the organizers say. A rich cultural program was prepared for the foreign guests. They were shown the city attractions.

CLARISSE LAMBALLE, SCHOOL STUDENT, MILITARY LYCEUM SAINT-CYR:

We took different classes like mathematics, history, geography. Kazakh teaching techniques differ from French. I liked that there is always an intense exchange of views. History, geography classes are completely different in content, but are very interesting.

The exchange between the 17th gymnasium and the Saint-Cyr military college has been ongoing the past two years. Due to the program, the French youth learnt more about Kazakhstan. The organizers are trying to take into account all the nuances so that the school students are fully immersed in the environment.

RAMZIYA UMERBAEVA, DIRECTOR, 17TH KURMANOV GYMNASIUM:

Students of the Saint-Cyr live in the Kazakh families. They are warmly welcomed. People tell them about the traditions of the Kazakh people, introduce them to the Kazakh cuisine.

The military lyceum Saint-Cyr is one of the oldest institutions of Paris. The elite school was founded 300 years ago during the reign of Louis the 14th. In May, the Kazakh students will visit France for a return visit. School students will study French, math and history. But most importantly, the will continue to communicate with their French friends and maintain friendships for years, the teachers believe.