The Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF) brings together 1007 universities, colleges, university networks and scientific research centers using the French language in 119 countries. Created nearly 60 years ago, it is one of the largest associations of higher education and research institutions in the world. It is also the operator for higher education and research at the Francophonie Summit. As such, it implements, within its field of competence, the resolutions adopted by the Conference of Heads of State and the Government of countries sharing the French language.

MISSION: TO ACT FOR A FRANCOPHONE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY COMMITTED TO THE DEVELOPMENT

In the respect of the diversity of cultures and languages, the AUF acts for a university francophonie engaged in the economic, social, and cultural development of societies. According to its 2017-2021 strategy, it supports higher education and research institutions to meet three major challenges: the quality of training, research, and university governance; the professional integration and employability of graduates; and involvement in the global development of societies.

METHOD: STRUCTURING PROJECTS FOR A CONCRETE IMPROVEMENT OF HIGHER EDUCATION

The AUF fosters solidarity between higher education and research institutions in order to implement projects that concretely transform the university system. It works with many partners: private companies and their foundations, states and governments, national development agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and academic, scientific and cultural associations. Its teams around the world provide support and advice for the design and monitoring of projects, facilitate the sharing of best practices, expertise and innovations

PRESENCE: ALL OVER THE WORLD, CLOSE TO OUR MEMBER INSTITUTIONS

Present in 40 countries, the AUF has a network of 59 local representations. Its central services are divided between Montreal and Paris (France).  Ten regional offices manage its activities in the field in Central and Great Lakes Africa, West Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, the Caribbean, Central and Eastern Europe, Western Europe, the Maghreb, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

Seven administrative offices, 36 Francophone digital campuses dedicated to digital technology and four Francophone institutes dedicated to training, research, consulting and expertise complete this regional intervention system.