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The Consul-General of China in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, has called for the expansion of Mandarin language teaching in Nigerian schools.
Chinese Diplomat Calls for Mandarin to Be Taught in Nigerian Schools
Ms Yan made the appeal during a visit to Grace Schools, Lagos, where she met with pupils enrolled in the school’s Mandarin language programme. Grace Schools has offered Mandarin as a subject for the past 16 years.
According to the Consul-General, China already supports Mandarin education in Nigeria through the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos, as well as Chinese language classes in primary and secondary schools across the country.
She praised the pupils for their fluency in Mandarin and expressed confidence that more Nigerian students would pursue higher education and career opportunities in China.
“I am delighted to be at Grace Schools. It is clear that many Nigerian students have a keen interest in the Chinese language, culture, history and people. Young people are the future of every nation, and it is inspiring to hear so many of them say they hope to visit China,” she said.
“I am pleased that the children are learning Chinese so well. I love Nigeria. We have similar traditional attire, and I enjoy moi moi, jollof rice and egusi,” she added.
Ms Yan also said China would continue to support Nigerian students through scholarships, teacher and student exchange programmes, educational assistance, and other initiatives aimed at strengthening mutual understanding between both countries.
She further disclosed that the Chinese government, through its Ministry of Education, awards scholarships each year to students from African countries, including Nigeria.
The Chief Executive Officer of Grace Schools, Mrs Olatokunbo Edun, added that the school introduced Mandarin in 2010 after acknowledging China’s expanding economic influence and the opportunities it offers to young Nigerians.
She added that learning additional languages also enhances children’s cognitive development while fostering cultural understanding.
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Also speaking, the Chairman of the Parents-Teachers Association of Grace Schools, Omoruyi Edoigiawerei, said parents were satisfied with the programme and expressed confidence that it would equip their children for future opportunities in international business and diplomacy.
Chinese Diplomat Calls for Mandarin to Be Taught in Nigerian Schools
Chinese Diplomat Calls for Mandarin to Be Taught in Nigerian Schools