On December 16, the 2024 Overseas Chinese Language Teachers’ Seminar commenced at Huaqiao University, themed “Inspiration through Chinese Language, Leading by Educators.” A total of 79 Chinese language teachers from 24 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, Mongolia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, the UAE, Thailand, and Myanmar, gathered for a 14-day training session.

The program invites 24 experts and academics from Chinese Language and Culture College, School of Journalism and Communication, School of Computer Science and Technology, School of Information Science and Engineering, School of Architecture, and from outside the university to discuss key principles of Chinese language education, theories of Chinese culture, and the integration of digital tools and AI technology. Participants will also engage in cultural excursions, teacher well-being courses, and exchange seminars to foster their communication, friendship, and collaborative learning.

During the opening ceremony, the head of Office of Chinese Language and Culture Education emphasized the themes of “Inspiration” and “Leading”, highlighting the innovative curriculum design. They encouraged overseas teachers to actively participate in all activities, share knowledge and experiences, and apply their learning to enhance teaching effectiveness, thus becoming ambassadors of Chinese culture. Representatives from the International Exchange and Cooperation Office and Institute of Overseas Chinese Language and Culture Education also attended the ceremony.

Mo Peixia, principal of the Melbourne Chinese Ethnic School, Australia, returned to Huaqiao University after seven years. She noted that the program’s theme resonates with her educational philosophy and expressed enthusiasm about sharing insights with her teaching team to further develop Chinese language education. Mo emphasized the role of Chinese language teachers as cultural bridge builders, passing on the essence of Chinese culture to future generations.

Duan Shuling, a teacher at the Mongolia-China Friendship School in Mongolia, shared her aspiration to help more overseas Chinese students learn Chinese language and promote on Chinese culture, thereby strengthening the friendship between China and Mongolia. She noted that the diverse and rich curriculum of the training program would broaden her horizons, enhance her skills, and facilitate discussions on the development of Chinese language education with peers from around the world.

This training program is specifically targeted at Chinese language teachers from Central Asian countries within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS nations, marking a significant adjustment in HQU’s commitment to overseas Chinese language education.

Opening Ceremony

Group Photo of the Participants

(Editor: Wei Linying)