Latest news with #ChineseLanguageDay
The Star
29-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
Feature: Ethiopian students embrace Chinese language amid growing Sino-Ethiopian ties
by Xinhua writers Muluneh Gebre, Liu Fangqiang ADDIS ABABA, April 29 (Xinhua) -- Abdi Waktola, 21, a fourth-year Chinese language student at Addis Ababa University (AAU), first became interested in learning Chinese after meeting Chinese workers a decade ago in his hometown in Ethiopia's Oromia Regional State. "I was surprised when I heard the hardworking Chinese workers speaking Mandarin (standard Chinese language). It sounded wild to me, but also fascinating. Since then, my desire to learn Mandarin started to grow," Waktola told Xinhua in a recent interview during celebrations marking Chinese Language Day, an annual observance established by the United Nations in 2010 and held on April 20 each year. He said his passion for the language was fueled not only by personal interest but also by encouragement from senior university students and the growing demand for Chinese language skills in Ethiopia's job market. "After learning Chinese, I got involved in various income-generating activities, especially with Chinese companies in Ethiopia. Learning Chinese is very rewarding in a country like Ethiopia, where Chinese investment is on the rise," he said. According to Ethiopian Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen, China remains a leading source of foreign direct investment in Ethiopia, with more than 4,500 Chinese projects currently operating in the East African country, making China the largest foreign investor in both project numbers and capital. Another young Ethiopian, Tayamlak Wolde, has built a career around the Chinese language. Working as an interpreter between Mandarin and Amharic, Ethiopia's official working language, Wolde facilitates communication for Chinese companies both in Ethiopia and abroad. "I chose to study Chinese because of the growing socio-economic ties between China and Ethiopia, and China's expanding presence in Africa," said Wolde, a graduate of the Confucius Institute at Hawassa University in southern Ethiopia. "My Chinese language skills have enabled me to earn a living by offering translation and interpretation services locally and internationally. It helps me understand Chinese history and culture," he said. Wolde, who also studied in China, showcased traditional Chinese dances during this year's Chinese Language Day celebrations in Ethiopia. With support from Chinese friends, he even got a high-paying job as an interpreter for a Chinese company in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates. The 2025 Chinese Language Day was celebrated last week under the theme "Chinese Language: A Gift Across Time and Space" at the Confucius Institute at the Ethiopian Technical and Vocational Training Institute (TVTI). The event featured cultural performances, including songs, kung fu displays, and traditional dances by Ethiopian students learning Chinese. In addition to AAU and TVTI, the Chinese language is now taught as a general-interest course or academic major in many public schools across Ethiopia. To meet growing demand, Ethiopia is not only opening more Confucius Institutes but also training local Mandarin teachers. Earlier this month, AAU and the Oromia Education Bureau signed a memorandum of understanding in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa to train Chinese language instructors to teach Mandarin in Oromia, Ethiopia's largest region. The program will start next academic year. "The agreement focuses on building the capacity of teachers who will teach Mandarin in Oromia's boarding and secondary schools. Our aim is to train about 30 teachers each year," said AAU President Samuel Kifle. Noting the vital role the Confucius Institute at AAU will play in implementing the program, Kifle said, "It has been instrumental in providing Chinese teachers at certificate, undergraduate, and master's degree levels." "Once the new program is launched, the Institute will be fully involved," he said.
The Star
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Roundup: Cultural exchange takes center stage at Chinese language competition in Namibia
WINDHOEK, April 29 (Xinhua) -- Beyond textbooks and classrooms, a vibrant cultural exchange unfolded Tuesday in Windhoek, Namibia's capital, as the 24th "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students and the 18th edition for Foreign Secondary School Students took center stage. Hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Namibia and organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Namibia (UNAM), the event marked part of UNAM's celebrations for the Chinese Language Day, observed annually around April 20. The competition showcased Namibian students' talents in Chinese literature, poetry, and language, underscoring the deepening cultural ties between the two countries. Romanus Shivoro, UNAM's assistant director for external and international relations, told Xinhua that the event plays a crucial role in promoting intercultural understanding. "We're engaging both secondary and university students through cultural exchange and language training programs, facilitated by the Confucius Institute," he said, adding that such an initiative is crucial for strengthening ties between the two geographically distant countries, bridging cultural gaps and fostering mutual understanding through meaningful exchange. Liu Dianbo, Chinese director of the Confucius Institute at UNAM, highlighted the increasing popularity of the institute's Chinese language education. "This year, the Confucius Institute has more than 800 students registered, which is basically within all the institutions, tertiary, and secondary schools," Liu told Xinhua, noting a growing enthusiasm for Chinese culture and language among Namibians. The event featured outstanding performances from both college and high school students. Sedney Teko, who clinched first place in the college category, earned a spot in the upcoming global finals in China. "I've been studying Chinese for three years, and I'm very excited to go to China this year," she told Xinhua. "And I hope that this competition will be a stepping stone for me to achieve my goals of studying in China." Mourisha Maruana, winner in the secondary school category. "I am going to the competition in China to lift my country's flag and will do my best," she said. Last year's winner from Namibia, Jennifer Hashipala, shared her reflections with the audience, calling the experience "unforgettable." "Participating in the 'Chinese Bridge' was not just about competing; it was about stepping into a new world. A world rich with language, culture, and connection," she said. According to Hashipala, traveling to China, a country with over 5,000 years of history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant modern culture, is truly a dream come true. "As I look to the future, I hope to continue building bridges between cultures, between languages, and between people," she said. In addition to the language competition, attendees enjoyed Namibia's first-ever Chinese Talent Show, offering immersive experiences such as calligraphy demonstrations, tea ceremonies, traditional Chinese clothing, mask painting, Chinese medicine showcases, and tastings of authentic Chinese cuisine. Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Weiping, who presented prizes to the winners, praised UNAM's role in fostering connections with Chinese universities. "In the future, the Chinese Embassy will continue to provide facilitation for even closer engagement between the education institutions and their Chinese counterparts," Zhao said. Since its establishment in 2013, the Confucius Institute at UNAM has engaged more than 8,000 students in Chinese language and cultural programs.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ethiopia: Chinese Language Day marked with a focus on harmony in diversity and global understanding
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), in partnership with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China to Ethiopia and the Mission of China to the African Union and ECA, commemorated Chinese Language Day with a vibrant celebration at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Conference Centre in Addis Ababa. The event highlighted the Chinese language as a powerful vehicle for cross-cultural understanding, dialogue, and heritage preservation. The observance forms part of the UN's global initiative to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity across its operations. Chinese, one of the UN's six official languages, was at the heart of the day's celebration, which drew diplomats, educators, cultural experts, and UN staff. In her opening remarks, Ms. Mai-Ellen Jarrett, Acting Director of ECA's Administration Division, underscored the strategic value of multilingualism in advancing the UN's mission, stating: 'Chinese is not just a language; it is a living testament to 5,000 years of civilization—a bridge linking cultures and fostering shared humanity.' Mr. Hu Changchun, Head of the Chinese Mission to the African Union (AU) and Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), reflected on Mandarin's growing influence in diplomacy, trade, and global innovation, noting that it is spoken by over 1.3 billion people worldwide. Ms. Rita Bisoonauth, Director of UNESCO's Liaison Office to the African Union (AU) and Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), added: 'Chinese, with its rich script and philosophical depth, offers a unique lens to view the world—one rooted in harmony, respect, and collective progress.' The celebration also included interactive calligraphy workshops highlighting the UNESCO-recognized art of shūfǎ, demonstrations of traditional Chinese medicine practices, and poetry recitations that brought both classical and contemporary Chinese literature to life. A keynote address by Professor Li Wei, an internationally renowned linguist, explored the theme 'Harmony in Diversity: Chinese as a Catalyst for Global Understanding.' His remarks emphasized the role of language as both a cultural asset and a means for international cooperation. In his closing remarks, Mr. Marcel Bolboaca, Chief of ECA's Publications, Conferences, and Knowledge Management Division, called on participants to champion the preservation of linguistic heritage: 'Languages like Chinese are threads in humanity's tapestry. By preserving them, we honor our past and equip future generations to build a more inclusive world.' The event concluded with a reception, where guests further celebrated Chinese culture through music, cuisine, and informal dialogue, reinforcing the day's message of togetherness through language. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
The Star
28-04-2025
- General
- The Star
UN Chinese Language Day celebrated at Egyptian Chinese University in Cairo
CAIRO, April 28 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of Chinese language learners and enthusiasts gathered on Sunday at the Egyptian Chinese University (ECU) in Cairo to mark UN Chinese Language Day, themed "Chinese: A Gift Across Time and Space." The event was jointly organized by the Chinese Embassy in Egypt, China's Center for Language Education and Cooperation, the ECU, and the Africa Office of Sinopec Group. In opening remarks, Lu Chunsheng, minister counselor at the Chinese Embassy, said the Chinese language embodies communication, mutual understanding, and respect. Learning Chinese, he said, reflects strength through openness and tolerance, and the building of bridges rather than barriers. Lu noted that Egypt currently hosts 32 Chinese language departments at universities, three Confucius Institutes, and two Confucius classrooms. Chinese Language Day, established by the United Nations in 2010, is celebrated annually on April 20 to highlight the global significance of the Chinese language. Addressing the event, ECU President Rasha El-Kholy said the university offers Chinese language education across all departments, with about 12,000 students enrolled in programs spanning medical engineering and the humanities. She also pointed to growing cooperation between Egypt and China in science and education, including study opportunities in China, training programs for faculty, and summer camps for students.
The Star
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Feature: Melodies without borders -- young voices in Cape Town celebrate Chinese language through song
CAPE TOWN, April 26 (Xinhua) -- Dozens of young singers showcased their vibrant celebration of Chinese culture on Saturday at the fourth Chinese Singing Competition in Cape Town, South Africa's legislative capital, captivating the audience with melodies that transcended language barriers. As a special event marking this year's Chinese Language Day, the competition took place at Groote Schuur High School, a well-known local institution, and was organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Town, with support from the Confucius Institutes at the University of the Western Cape and Stellenbosch University. Contestants from universities, secondary schools, and primary schools competed in two categories: university and primary/secondary school divisions. Tang Chang'an, deputy consul general of the Chinese Consulate-General in Cape Town, emphasized the profound cultural significance of the Chinese language. "It (Chinese language) is difficult because it carries five thousand years of civilization," he said. He also highlighted the role of music in bridging cultures. "Every Chinese song is a window into Chinese culture," said Tang. "So by learning to sing Chinese songs, you will help yourself to grasp this language and also have a better understanding of this culture." Encouraging South African students to continue learning Chinese, he said, "You could be a bridge linking China and South Africa. I hope you can help us to push forward this friendship deeper." The competition stage came alive with excitement as contestants displayed a range of Chinese proficiency, yet their confidence and passion resonated deeply with the audience. One of the standout moments came from four young students from Norma Road Primary School, who, despite being new to the Chinese language, brought vibrant energy to their performance. Their lively medley of Chinese children's songs, including "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star," "Where is Spring," and "Counting Ducks," had the audience clapping and singing along. "I love learning Chinese characters. It's just like a little activity that I can do. It's very fun, and then I can challenge myself," Ashiquah Norodien, a student at Stellenbosch University who clinched first prize in the university division, told Xinhua. Norodien also shared that learning Chinese has not only enhanced her academic experience but also allowed her to build meaningful friendships. "Learning Chinese will definitely bring you advantages, like in your career, or even just opportunities to go to China," said Norodien. Calling Chinese "a language that is made for business," she noted learning it will help her connect with dynamic Chinese enterprises and leading global companies in the future. In the primary and secondary school division, Lisa Michels, a local secondary school student, captivated the judges with her emotional performance of "Big Fish," earning her top honors. Having studied Chinese for four years, Michels shared that learning the language has opened many doors. "Even though it was difficult, it was very rewarding," said Michels. "Learning Chinese can give you opportunities and open doors when you need to communicate with other people from other cultural backgrounds, or if you want to go visit elsewhere in the world." Feng Pengpeng, Chinese director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Town, explained that the competition went beyond singing. "By organizing the Chinese Singing Competition, we hope to integrate artistic elements into Chinese learning and convey the beauty of Chinese through music," she said. "Singing Chinese songs can deepen South African students' understanding of Chinese culture, and learning Chinese also builds a bridge for cultural exchanges between the youth of the two countries," Feng added.
