Corporate - Equal Opportunities: Paris Dauphine University - PSL joins forces with Meaux to open up new possibilities

By Mulder, Meaux, Cité de la musique Simone Veil, 10 november 2025

At a time when social mobility sometimes seems to be at a standstill, certain initiatives remind us that confidence in young people and education can still make a difference. It is in this spirit that Paris Dauphine University - PSL formalized, on Monday, November 10, 2025, a unique partnership with the City of Meaux and the Lycée Jean Vilar, as part of its ambitious Equal Opportunities program. This program, already in place in 41 schools across France, aims to support high school students from modest backgrounds in achieving success in higher education. The Lycée Jean Vilar's entry into this adventure therefore marks a symbolic and concrete step: Meaux becomes the 42nd partner city, and above all the first municipality to be so directly involved in the co-construction of the program, with the creation of a Cultural Passport in collaboration with the Communauté d'agglomération du Pays de Meaux (Meaux Urban Community).

The launch ceremony, held at the Cité de la Musique Simone Veil, brought together many institutional figures, teachers, families, and above all the high school students who will be the first to benefit from this tailor-made support. Bruno Bouchard, President of Paris Dauphine University - PSL, opened the evening by reminding everyone that this partnership was not only an academic commitment, but a true republican promise. His speech emphasized the conviction that success does not depend on where you come from, but on the quality of the opportunities you are given to move forward. At his side, Jean-François Copé, former minister, Mayor of Meaux, and President of the Communauté d'Agglomération du Pays de Meaux, stressed the importance for local authorities to play an active role in democratizing access to higher education. Referring to his own career path, he praised the boldness of a university that, rather than resting on its prestige, chooses to reach out to young people where they are.

Vice President Bernard Lociciro, delegate for Culture, Cultural Education, Heritage, and Secondary and Higher Education for the Pays de Meaux Urban Community, then took the floor to present the Cultural Passport, an original addition to the Equal Opportunities program. This scheme will give young people privileged access to local cultural institutions, shows, museums, and artistic activities in the area. The objective is clear: to provide a framework for awakening and openness, because culture remains a powerful lever for personal emancipation. In his words, this passport is intended to be “a symbolic key that opens the doors to knowledge, but also to curiosity and confidence.”

Principal Mohamed Nahar emphasized the enthusiasm of the teaching staff at Lycée Jean Vilar, stressing that this collaboration goes far beyond simple academic support. It introduces a human and collective dimension, where students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to dream bigger. Several teachers present also expressed their pride in participating in a project where ambition never excludes kindness. For them, seeing their students participate in workshops at Dauphine, meet student mentors, or attend conferences represents a unique opportunity, almost a springboard to a new perception of themselves.

Beyond the announcement, this ceremony marks the beginning of a lasting commitment. By partnering with the City of Meaux and its metropolitan area, Paris Dauphine University - PSL is strengthening its role as a social and cultural driving force, faithful to its mission of inclusive excellence. The Equal Opportunities program continues to expand, confirming that success can—and must—be shared. For the twenty high school students from Meaux who are joining this adventure, the message is clear: their future is not predetermined, but they now have the tools to build it.

You can found our Photos in our Flickr page

Photos and video: Boris Colletier / Mulderville