On June 17, 2023, the 22nd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for University Students and the 16th "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for Secondary School Students Mauritius Regional Finals were successfully held at the University of Mauritius. His Excellency Mr. Zhu Liying, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China in Mauirtius, and Professor Mohammad Issack Santally Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academia) of the University of Mauritius, attended the ceremony and delivered speeches. Mrs. Zhang Xinhong, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, Professor Fu Mingduan, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Mauritius, Associate Professor Naraindra Kistamah, the Mauritian Director of the Confucius Institute, the judges, and over 200 Chinese language enthusiasts from Mauritius attended the ceremony.
Speech by His Excellency Mr. Zhu Liying, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China in Mauritius
H.E Ambassador Zhu Liying highlighted the significant progress in the exchange and cooperation between China and Mauritius in the field of Chinese language education in recent years. The themes of the Chinese Bridge – "One World, One Family" and " Fly High with Chinese" not only embody the pursuit of a "world with shared destiny and global unity" that the Chinese nation has cherished for centuries, but also hold sincere hopes for the youth to pursue their dreams, strive forward, and make the most of their precious time. These themes reflect the cultural concept of China's "beauty of harmony lies in embracing diversity". Moreover, they serve as concrete practices in constructing a harmonious and inclusive human community, emphasizing respect for the diversity of world civilizations. Ambassador Zhu anticipates more Mauritian youths gaining insights into China through the "Chinese Bridge" competition, as well as their participation in studying, traveling, working, and engaging in China-Africa cooperation projects. They will become friendly envoys in promoting Sino-Mauritian friendship, fostering cultural exchanges, and enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
Speech by Professor Mohammad Issack Santally, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mauritius
Professor Mohammad Issack Santally, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mauritius emphasized the rich history and growing global influence of the Chinese language, stating that learning Chinese provides a window into understanding Chinese culture. The "Chinese Bridge" competition not only serves as an important platform for the students of Mauritius to showcase their proficiency in Chinese language learning but also stands as a grand celebration of building cultural bridges between China and Mauritius through language. The "Chinese Bridge" competition not only exposes more Mauritians to the beauty of the Chinese language but also inspires and encourages a greater number of students to embark on their own journey of Chinese language learning. Professor Mohammad Issack Santally hopes that the “Chinese Bridge” participants will maintain positive and open-minded attitudes while striving to excel in learning Chinese and they have the potentials to promote friendship and cooperation between China and Mauritius.
Exciting Moments of Participants' Performances
In the "Chinese Bridge" finals, there was a total of 12 finalists from the University and Secondary School Students’ group. The competition consisted of two segments: Chinese speech and Chinese talent show. The participants elaborated on their profound understanding of the themes "One World, One Family" and "Fly High with Chinese" They expressed their love for the Chinese language and culture, as well as their dreams and aspirations to contribute to Sino-Mauritian friendship. During the talent show, the participants received thunderous applause from the audience for their splendid performances, including Chinese songs, dances, tea art, and painting.
After intense competition, the results were announced with one first prize, two second prizes, and three third prizes awarded to each group. Mary Oladimeji from Middlesex University and Lara Wong Hee from Lycée Labourdonnais won the championships in the University students’ group and Secondary School students’ group respectively.
Group Photos of Participants and Guests
Announcement of the Winners of the 16th "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for Secondary School Students, Mauritius Regional Finals:
First Prize Winner
Lara Wong Hee 黄依雯
Second Prize Winners
Kate Emilie Loyeung 刘美玲
Lili-May Roland 丽丽
Third Prize Winners
Laeticya Cybele 立夏
Ritika Sewnarain 郑美佳
Benicia Radha 白雪丽
Announcement of the Winners of the 22nd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for University Students, Mauritius Regional Finals:
First Prize Winner
Mary Oladimeji 王杰
Second Prize Winners
Esther Oladimeji 常欢
Mahamoodally Mohummud Arshad 艾尔沙
Third Prize Winners
Oummeh Haani Roossaye 哈尼
Dhanrani Boolaky 芮姝
Jaumbocus Bibi Warda 仲知远