In the midst of the ongoing commemoration of the year 2015 which is the Year of China in South Africa, the Durban University of Technology’s Confucius Institute (DUT CI), along with students from the University, are continuously engaging in various events seeking build positive relations between the DUT, Durban and Chinese communities.
Formed in 2013, the DUT CI provides a platform for DUT students to learn about Chinese culture and language. Through its programmes at the University, the Institute has systematically selected students to partake in various activities such as the Chinese Film Festival, 14th Chinese World College Students Chinese Bridge Competition, Beautiful Tianjin-Chinese Cultural and Arts Festival as well as the 2015 – The Year of China in South Africa Summer Camp.
According to Song Bo, the Head of the Education Division in the Chinese Embassy in South Africa, the growing interest in Chinese culture from students not only formed a link of friendship between South Africa and China, it also played a vital role in the relationship between the two countries. “I must commend the commitment made by DUT CI students in their commitment of learning about the Chinese culture and language. Young people are the future and an investment in them is an investment to the relationship that both countries are building. Their visits to China play a pivotal role in effective communication between South Africans and China,” he said.
In June (2015), 18 DUT students formed part of the 70 South African students who travelled to China for the two week 2015 Summer Camp to China. This was the second summer camp that was attended by DUT students, the first taking place in 2014 and the second taking place earlier this year (January 2015).
Sharing his experiences, Sicelo Kubheka said the camps were quiet an experience for him. “China is amazing, not just the country but the people we got to meet when we were there. I took an interest in the culture out of curiosity but my love for the language and culture just keeps growing. We are very grateful to the DUT CI for the opportunities they have afforded us,” he said.
Dr Eddie Chaobo Fu, the Head of the DUT CI, said another camp will take place at the end of 2015 for selected registered and excellent Mandarin students from the University’s CI. “It is always a pleasure to see students enjoying themselves while they learn. There will be another camp at the end of this year,” he said.
- Noxolo Memela
Pictured: Students at the 2015 Summer Camp to China. Pictured first from right (stripped t-shirt) is Dr Eddie Chaobo Fu, the Head of the DUT CI
