for youths who dropped out of school. He added that France has achieved positive results with this approach to the dropout issue. The French diplomat pointed out that the congress was taking place at a crucial moment. “Suriname faces huge challenges and I think that solutions to these challenges must be found”, said the French diplomat who added that France, and in particular French Guiana, also has the same problem. In order to provide perspectives to these youths, the French army has established special programs that not only teach these youths certain skills but also helps them to develop discipline and self confidence. Ambassador de Lacoste revealed that 80% of the participants eventually find a job in the catering business, construction and services sector. “It is a very efficient approach and we are willing to share our experiences with our Surinamese partners”, said the French diplomat. Ambassador de Lacoste emphasized the importance of teaching linguistics in the border region and that Dutch is taught at the schools located in the French border city Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni. Dutch is not only part of the curriculum but some subjects are also partially taught in Dutch. According to Ambassador de Lacoste, France invests in strengthening the linquistic skills of the youths in the border region. The French diplomat would also like French to be given a bigger spot within the education system on the Surinamese side of the border. “We would appreciate it a lot of French were to be introduced again at the schools located in Albina for starters. I think that that would be very beneficial”, said Ambassador de Lacoste.