Rwandan students keen on learning Chinese language

Local students from the Confucius Institute of the University of Rwanda are developing a keen interest for learning Chinese language.

These are students reciting a famous Chinese poem called "Chu He" or "weeding."

Students and teachers from the Confucius Institute at the University of Rwanda exchange ideas in the Chinese reading room.[Photo:China Plus]

This is one of the events of a Chinese-learning summer camp held by the Confucius Institute at the University.

Students are learning Chinese by reading classics stories and singing songs.

This year's summer camp has seen more than 300 participants.

Zhang Xian, the Chinese director of the Confucius Institute, says both China and Rwanda share the same goals concerning development.

"China, like Rwanda, has also undergone poverty. There are still poverty-stricken areas in China now. We're making efforts to alleviate poverty and build a moderately prosperous society in all respects. We hope Rwanda, as well as all African countries, can also achieve common prosperity, where people can live decent lives and achieve common development."

Masezerano Divine, a student from the Confucius Institute, says she loves learning Chinese.

"I think that learning Chinese is of great significance, since it can bring me more opportunities to communicate with the Chinese people. I love Chinese culture as well. I have learnt to make Chinese dumplings, singing Chinese songs. But Chinese Tai Chi is my favorite."

The Confucius Institute of the University of Rwanda has also set up Chinese learning classes outside the campus - at Chinese businesses in Rwanda, the Masaka Hospital where Chinese medical teams are providing services, and even the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration.

Many local Rwandan people are now interested not only in learning Chinese language, but also other activities such as singing songs or Chinese martial arts.

Su Wen, a Chinese teacher with the Confucius Institute, says there is much room for further boosting people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

"When I arrived in Rwanda in 2013, I was surprised by some of its cities' appearance and environmental sanitation. I think there are many experiences that China can use for reference. At the same time, my students have also said several times that Rwanda can learn from China's experiences, especially in the economy, science and technology, culture and politics. They are also willing to study in China to help boost people-to-people exchanges."

Niyomunkiza Gildas, a student from the Confucius Institute, is set to study at Liaoning University in northeast China this September.

"I will work hard so that I can become a native Chinese teacher when I come back. I will learn the advanced technology and knowledge in China. I think learning Chinese can deepen the friendship between Rwanda and China. I want to help Rwandan people know more about China, and enhance the development of both countries."