Envoy Sees Proficiency In Chinese Language As Path To Career Advancement

Mr. Li Xuda, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, has advocated for the teaching of Chinese in schools throughout Nigeria, noting that this would open doors to a wide range of career paths and job opportunities, inevitably increasing many Nigerians’ competitiveness in an ever-changing world.

The Director, who advised the finals of the 23rd Season of the Chinese Bridge-“Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students” held virtually in Abuja at the weekend, stated that learning Chinese would improve one’s chances of finding work in the international labour market because Chinese is widely spoken.

He stated that the Bridge-Chinese Proficiency competition, which emphasises the importance of language and cultural exchange between China and Nigeria, aims to increase participants’ interest in learning Chinese and improve their cultural understanding.

He also stated that the competition connects China to the rest of the world, strengthens mutual understanding and bilateral relationships, and opens up opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange.

“With China’s growing influence in international trade, technology, and diplomacy, being able to communicate effectively in Chinese is seen as a valuable asset for people looking to advance their careers in an interconnected world. All of our students should learn Chinese because the majority of jobs or opportunities require at least two foreign languages. Xuda said:

He explained that the “Chinese Bridge” represents cultural exchange and language proficiency, and its success in Nigeria reflects Nigerian students’ growing interest in Chinese language and culture.

He mentioned that most foreign employers look for employees who are fluent in Chinese, which emphasises the importance of learning the language.

“Employers across industries are increasingly looking for candidates with Chinese language skills to work with Chinese partners, clients, and markets.” As businesses look to expand their operations in China and tap into its consumer base, the demand for Chinese-speaking employees is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. He explains.

Also speaking, Yu Zhangbao, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, stated that with hard work, determination, and a conducive learning environment, students will be able to perform well, showcase their skills and style, and achieve excellent results towards enhancing national and economic growth.

He stated that the “Chinese Bridge” competition has inspired many young people to learn Chinese and understand Chinese culture. It has also significantly increased the visibility of Chinese teaching in Nigeria within the global Chinese teaching community. I am confident that with everyone’s efforts, we will make further progress. I hope all of the contestants perform well, demonstrate their skills and style, and achieve excellent results.”

Zhao Hongling, Dean of the University of Lagos Confucius Institute, emphasised that the “Chinese Bridge” competition connects China and the world by providing a platform for college students to demonstrate their Chinese language skills and understanding of Chinese culture.

He stated: “The success of the Nigerian finals is due to the hard work of many leaders, teachers, and staff, whose dedication is greatly appreciated. This competition emphasises that hard work leads to success in learning Chinese, regardless of when one begins. Its goal is to increase participants’ enthusiasm for learning Chinese and deepen their cultural understanding.

“On behalf of the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos, I wish all participants the best and hope that the competition is a complete success in Nigeria.”

The 23rd season of the Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students, which guides Chinese learners all over the world towards a more diverse and harmonious future, featured 12 Nigerian college students.

After a series of outstanding performances, Zhengui won the competition, followed by Zhou Wenjing and Qi Siheng in second and Shen Moli, Chen Peixi, and Tian Jie in third.

The winner of the contest will have the opportunity to travel to China and compete in the global “Chinese Bridge” competition.