The Confucius Institute at Rhodes University in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at Jinan University (Guangzhou, China) run a yearly programme that allows Chinese teachers to teach Chinese studies at Rhodes University.
As such, the Confucius Institute recently welcomed three new lecturers namely, Ms Chen Xinlei (Chinese 1), Ms Yi Danni (Chinese2), and Ms Deng Yiping (Chinese 3). This programme promotes knowledge-sharing and knowledge exchange as these lecturers get to teach Chinese Studies while getting to know more about South African languages, cultures, and experience the country.
Spreading beaming smiles across their faces, the lecturers expressed so much excitement and gratitude about joining the programme. “I was so excited when I got accepted to come teach Chinese Studies at Rhodes University. There were complications and delays with the visa applications, and I did not think that we would make it here. I am so happy to finally be here,” Ms Chen said.
“This is a good opportunity for me to spread knowledge because I enjoy teaching and I am grateful for the ability to do so,” Ms Yi added. With so much joy and happiness, Ms Deng shared that she is grateful for the opportunity to impart knowledge, as she is passionate about teaching Chinese. “I am very excited to teach Chinese to South African students, and I look forward to experience local culture”. Pleased with the warm welcome they got from their students, the lecturers shared their experiences so far and hopes for the year. “I received a warm welcome from my students. They are hardworking and you can tell that they are eager to learn Chinese. I am happy to teach them the language, and culture,” Ms Deng said.
Echoing the same sentiments as Ms Deng, Ms Chen added, “my students welcomed me wholeheartedly and that motivates me more to teach. This means that I am doing something good”. On the other hand, Ms Yi expressed that her experience so far has been amasing because her students show a positive spirit to learn Chinese. “I am happy with teaching my class as I get to teach them words, phrases, and songs in Chinese. I hope to show them moral support and be a friend to them”.The new lecturers shared that they are happy about the new family they have created. They are excited about this new journey and hope to experience South Africa by visiting other places during holidays.
