Cultural bridge Chad China strengthen ties through language contest

The national finals of the Chinese language competition in Chad have just concluded, marking six years of fruitful cultural and academic collaboration between Chad and China through the Confucius Institute at the University of N’Djamena.

Nurturing young minds and bridging civilizations

The finale unfolded at the Mother-Child Humanities University in N’Djamena, where students showcased their linguistic prowess in a celebration of intercultural dialogue. The event, co-organized by the Chinese Embassy in Chad and the Confucius Institute at the University of N’Djamena, highlighted the growing importance of Chinese language education in Chad.

In his opening speech, Mahamat Saleh Daoussa Haggar, President of the University of N’Djamena, emphasized that this competition transcends mere academic achievement. He described it as “a symbol of a changing world,” a testament to “youth rising to meet global challenges,” and proof of Chad’s commitment to opening its doors to international cooperation through knowledge and cultural exchange.

The President underscored the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future, asserting that education investments are investments in peace, development, and national stability. He wove traditional Chinese wisdom into his remarks, reinforcing the message of intergenerational knowledge transfer as a cornerstone of progress.

Celebrating six years of transformative partnership

The 2026 edition of the “Bridge to Chinese” competition coincides with the sixth anniversary of the Confucius Institute at the University of N’Djamena. Since its establishment, the Institute has evolved from a language learning center into a vibrant hub for cultural diplomacy and intellectual exchange.

“The Confucius Institute has become more than a classroom,” stated a university spokesperson. “It is a gateway to the world, a platform where young Chadis discover new horizons through the Chinese language and culture, preparing them for the global stage.”

Diplomatic perspectives on linguistic and cultural diplomacy

Addressing the audience, Chinese Ambassador to Chad Wang Xining framed the competition as a bridge connecting the two nations. He stressed that mastering Chinese goes beyond linguistic skills—it builds bridges between civilizations and prepares a generation capable of navigating an interconnected world.

“The theme ‘Bridge to Chinese’ is not just a challenge; it is a symbol of connection,” the Ambassador stated. “We are not only teaching a language—we are fostering mutual understanding and building a future where Chad and China stand closer together.”

He praised the dedication of university leaders, teachers, and students, calling language learning a gateway to personal and professional growth for young Chadis. By embracing Chinese, students become ambassadors of this bilateral friendship, strengthening ties that extend beyond the classroom.

Aligning visions for shared progress

Both nations are now aligning their strategic development plans—the 15th Five-Year Plan of China and Chad’s Vision 2030—to create new avenues of pragmatic cooperation. These efforts aim to modernize infrastructure, enhance educational exchanges, and unlock opportunities for mutual benefit.

The competition finale concluded with a renewed commitment to cultural and educational diplomacy, setting the stage for even deeper collaboration between Chad and China in the years ahead.