Chinese language proficiency contests held in Namibia

A Namibian student performs during the "Chinese Bridge" Chinese proficiency competitions in Windhoek, Namibia, on May 7, 2024. The Confucius Institute at the University of Namibia (UNAM) on Tuesday hosted "Chinese Bridge" Chinese proficiency competitions for foreign college and secondary school students in Windhoek, the Namibian capital. (Photo by Musa C Kaseke/Xinhua)

The Confucius Institute at the University of Namibia (UNAM) on Tuesday hosted "Chinese Bridge" Chinese proficiency competitions for foreign college and secondary school students in Windhoek, the Namibian capital.

Kenneth Matengu, vice chancellor of the University of Namibia, said the level and quality displayed at the 23rd "Chinese Bridge" competition for college students and the 17th "Chinese Bridge" competition for secondary school students in Namibia are steadily improving.

"It's a wonderful opportunity that we can give to our students and learners," he said, adding that the enthusiasm and participation from secondary schools were particularly noteworthy, with the university sector also actively engaged.

The competitions featured various activities, including speeches, song performances, quizzes, and demonstrations of various Chinese cultural talents, including calligraphy, with Sedney Teko winning university contest and Angela Shoombe the secondary school category.

The two winners received tokens of appreciation in the form of cellphones and smartwatches and the opportunity to travel to China for the 2024 Chinese Bridge Competition.

Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Weiping commended the students for their efforts, and pledged continued support.

"We need to add more teaching sites to catch up with the reality. As Chinese ambassador, I would like to get more resources for that purpose," he said. "I do hope that with our joint efforts, Chinese language teaching will benefit more Namibian people."