Cultural bridge: Chad and China strengthen academic ties through chinese language contest

N’Djamena — The national finals of the global Chinese language competition recently concluded in Chad, marking a milestone in cultural and academic exchange between Chad and China. Organized by the Chinese Embassy in Chad and the Confucius Institute at the University of N’Djamena (UNDJ), the event showcased linguistic talent while fostering deeper connections between the two nations. Held at the Mother-Child University of Human Sciences in N’Djamena, the competition served as a celebration of language proficiency and a testament to the growing friendship between Chad and China.

The President of the University of N’Djamena, Mahamat Saleh Daoussa Haggar, emphasized that this event transcends academic achievement. In his address, he described the finals as “a symbol of a changing world” and “a rising generation stepping forward”, highlighting Chad’s growing openness to global knowledge and intercultural dialogue. He praised the youth’s role in shaping the future, stressing that investing in education is an investment in peace, development, and stability. Chinese proverbs were woven into his speech to underscore the importance of knowledge sharing and long-term vision.

This year’s competition, titled “Bridge to Chinese”, aligns with the University of N’Djamena’s mission to deepen cultural and academic exchanges with China. It also encourages students to embrace international languages and seize global opportunities. Notably, 2026 marks the sixth anniversary of the Confucius Institute at UNDJ—a milestone that has reshaped the university’s academic and international landscape. What began as a language center has evolved into a vibrant hub for cultural dialogue, intellectual exchange, and human connection.

Diplomatic and academic leaders unite to celebrate collaboration

Addressing the crowd, China’s Ambassador to Chad, Wang Xining, underscored the significance of hosting a prestigious competition in Chad. The event, held at the University of N’Djamena, reflects the pivotal role academia plays in strengthening bilateral ties. He highlighted the deepening cooperation between Chad and China, particularly in higher education, university exchanges, and youth development.

The Ambassador praised the Confucius Institute’s impact, noting its scholarships, exchange programs, and cultural activities that empower Chadian students. Learning a foreign language, he explained, is more than mastering vocabulary—it’s about building bridges between civilizations and nurturing a generation capable of navigating an interconnected world. The theme “Bridge to Chinese” embodies this vision, symbolizing not just a linguistic challenge but a cultural and human connection between the two countries.

He extended gratitude to university leaders, educators, and students for their dedication, calling language learning a gateway for Chadian youth to explore new personal and professional horizons. Cultural exchanges, he noted, are the foundation of lasting friendship, with students becoming ambassadors of this bilateral relationship and contributors to a shared future.

Looking ahead: Economic and cultural integration

Beyond education, both governments are aligning Chad’s Chad Connexion 2030 plan with China’s 15th Five-Year Plan to create new avenues for pragmatic cooperation. These efforts aim to modernize both nations while delivering tangible benefits to their people.