Seychelles-China ties in culture and education get further boost

A Confucius classroom has been launched at the University of Seychelles (UniSey) with the aim of promoting Chinese language learning in Seychelles.

The Confucius classroom, which was officially opened on Friday evening, has been described as another example of cultural and educational cooperation between Seychelles and China.

The launch ceremony at the UniSey theatre at Anse Royale was attended by the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor of the UniSey, professors Rolph Payet and Dennis Hardy respectively; the Chinese ambassador to Seychelles Shi Zhongjun; leader of the opposition in the National Assembly David Pierre; acting Chief Justice Durai Karunakaran; the President of Dailan University of China Professor Pan Chengsheng and other high officials of both UniSey and the Dailan University. Dailan is providing lecturers for the Confucius classroom.

Prof. Payet described the launch of the Confucius classroom as a collaboration and cultural exchange between Seychelles and China as the facility is not only about learning the Chinese language but also about so many things like the Chinese culture and history that we share with China. 

He said he is also looking forward to the exchange of students between the two countries.

“The Confucius classroom is not only another means of sharing or enjoying what we have in common with China but also sharing of diversity,” said Prof. Payet.

Prof. Hardy expressed his pride at the launch of the Confucius classroom and welcomed the generosity and support of the Chinese government in making this a reality. 

He also noted that it is not the first time that China has contributed to the advancement of education in Seychelles, making reference to the Anse Royale campus itself which was built by the Chinese government.

“The Confucius classroom is a visionary venture not only to learn the Chinese language but also to get knowledge of the Chinese culture. In the present world this opportunity is much needed as China is a growing influence around the world and it is to the benefits of all parties to learn more about each other,” said Prof. Hardy. 

He noted that there is a healthy number of Seychellois students who are already showing interest in the opportunity to learn the Chinese language.

Ambassador Shi described the launching of the Confucius classroom as another milestone in the cultural and educational cooperation between Seychelles and China.

“One hundred and fifty years ago the first Chinese stepped in Seychelles and brought friendship and culture. Since then Chinese culture has merged with the Creole culture and the cultural exchange between the two people has kept gaining momentum,” said the Chinese ambassador.

“I firmly believe that the Confucius classroom will be loved by Seychellois and become the base camp for learning the Chinese language and Chinese culture,” he said.
Professor Pan said it was a great honour for him to attend the launching ceremony as it is the first Confucius programme in Seychelles. 
He also said the classroom is a gift from China for the Seychelles National Day.

The director of Confucius classroom at UniSey, Professor Ma Min, said he was certain the Confucius classes in Seychelles will achieve great success.
Prof. Hardy and Prof. Pan then unveiled the plaque marking the inauguration of the Confucius classroom which was followed by  exchange of gifts between the two universities.

The Confucius classroom of the UniSey operates under the aegis of the Faculty of Science & Humanities. Apart from running various Chinese language courses for the benefit of UniSey students and the general public, the Confucius classrooms also aims at disseminating Chinese culture in Seychelles.

Everyone is being encouraged to take full advantage of this opportunity for linguistic enrichment, given the growing importance of China on the world stage.

As China’s economy and exchanges with the world have seen rapid growth, there has also been a sharp increase in the world’s demand for Chinese learning. China began its exploration through establishing non-profit public institutions which aim to promote Chinese language and culture in foreign countries in 2004: these were given the name Confucius Institute. By the end of 2013, there were in total 435 Confucius institutes and 644 Confucius classrooms distributed in 117 countries. Among them 35 are in Africa.

Forrás: www.nation.sc