The Confucius Institute at the University of Zambia (UNZA) held vibrant celebrations on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, to mark Chinese Language Day, an event observed annually on April 20. The festivities drew a crowd that included Wang Sheng, the minister counselor at the Chinese embassy, UNZA Vice-Chancellor Mundia Muya, and various officials and students associated with the Confucius Institute and other local schools.
This year's event was celebrated under the theme "Chinese Language: A Gift Across Time and Space," showcasing an array of rich cultural experiences. Attendees enjoyed performances that included traditional dance, songs, kung fu demonstrations, and Chinese calligraphy, all presented by students from the Confucius Institute. Coinciding with the event was the 15th anniversary of the Confucius Institute's establishment in Zambia, marking a significant milestone in cultural exchange.
In his remarks, Wang highlighted the role of the Chinese language as a bridge facilitating dialogue and exchanges among civilizations. He noted, "The growing popularity of international Chinese language education highlights the need for openness and inclusiveness, the value of mutual learning and cultural exchanges, and embodies the spirit of win-win cooperation." Wang emphasized that more than 190 countries and regions now include Chinese language education within their national education systems, underscoring the global reach and significance of the language.
Wang commended the Confucius Institute for its 15 years of service in Zambia, stating that it has successfully trained over 20,000 local talents in the Chinese language. Many of these individuals have found employment as professional translators for Chinese companies operating in Zambia. He pointed out that in various sectors, including agriculture and mining, Chinese and Zambian engineers now collaborate using the Chinese language to address technical challenges, thereby reinforcing the enduring friendship between China and Zambia.
Muya echoed Wang's sentiments, asserting that the growing number of Chinese speakers worldwide signifies the language's prominence. He remarked, "Language is not just a medium of communication but also a resource through which economic, political, and technological aspirations of any society could be conceived, commodified, and disseminated to a wider community." This perspective highlights the multifaceted role of language in shaping societal progress.
Furthermore, Muya expressed the UNZA's commitment to supporting the Confucius Institute and enhancing Chinese language education in Zambia. He praised the Institute's model of establishing teaching centers across the country, which has made learning the Chinese language more accessible to the public. Additionally, he noted the Institute's efforts in connecting students with Chinese companies through annual job fairs, which have proven beneficial for both students and employers.
Ian Bwalya, a fourth-year student studying Chinese at the Confucius Institute, shared his personal journey, stating that learning the language has deepened his understanding of Chinese culture. He noted that the demand for translators in Chinese companies is on the rise, providing a promising career path for those proficient in the language.
Meanwhile, across the globe, similar celebrations were taking place to honor the upcoming 2025 International Chinese Language Day, which also falls on April 20. In Beijing, a launch ceremony themed "Chinese Language: A Gift Across Time and Space" took place at the Beijing Foreign Studies University on April 18, 2025. The event featured a variety of cultural activities, including exhibitions of Chinese calligraphy, lectures on Chinese films, and demonstrations of traditional Chinese attire.
The International Chinese Language Day was established in 2020 by the Ministry of Education's Center for Language Education and Cooperation, along with ChinesePlus. Over the past five years, this initiative has seen more than 1,000 organizations across over 160 countries host more than 5,000 activities to celebrate the occasion.
Do Thanh Van, head of the Confucius Institute at Hanoi University, emphasized the cultural significance of the Chinese language, stating that it serves as a bridge connecting diverse cultures. He remarked, "In Vietnam, Chinese language education is becoming a bridge of linguistic exchange. From a simple 'ni hao' (hello) to sharing their hopes and dreams, countless students are opening doors to Chinese civilization." This sentiment reflects the broader impact of language education in fostering international understanding.
In Cambodia, the growing popularity of the Chinese language was also noted by Vinh Bun Eang, assistant to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport. He highlighted that learning Chinese not only opens personal development opportunities but also serves as a vital window into Chinese culture, arts, and history. He expressed optimism that as Chinese language education expands in Cambodia, it will strengthen the friendship between the two nations.
Artem Vlasovskiy, a Russian student pursuing a PhD in intercultural studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University, shared his perspective after 11 years of studying Chinese. He stated, "Language is the foundation for mutual understanding. By learning Chinese, I can better understand all aspects of your culture and life." His experience underscores the transformative power of language in bridging cultural divides.
As the world prepares for the United Nations Chinese Language Day on April 20, 2025, various activities are set to take place at the UN headquarters in New York. Speaking on behalf of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, spokesman Lin Jian expressed his delight at the increasing number of individuals learning Chinese, calling the language a vehicle that traverses history and a bridge to the future. He affirmed China's commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation with other nations through language education.
Wang Dinghua, chairman of the university council at Beijing Foreign Studies University, reiterated the importance of language education in promoting cultural exchange and friendship. He called for strengthened cooperation among language education partners globally, emphasizing the role of education in fostering mutual understanding among different civilizations.
