MUSCAT: Students from Omani schools showcased Chinese language skills and a deep understanding of Chinese culture at the first 'Chinese Bridge' competition in Oman, held at the Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate.
The audience cheered and gave warm, enthusiastic standing ovations to the performances, which took place in the presence of Dr Masouma al Ajmi, Adviser to the Minister for the Department of Development of Linguistic Skills at the Ministry of Education, and Lyu Jian, the Chinese Ambassador to Oman.
Over 200 people, including Directors General of the Education Directorates of Muscat and Al Dakhiliyah governorates, the Director-General of the Oman Across Ages Museum, students learning Chinese from four Omani high schools, and Chinese teachers dispatched by China, were present to support the contestants.
Ten students from four Omani high schools studying Chinese advanced to the final round through a selection process. Despite studying Chinese for less than a year, they displayed excellent language skills that captivated the audience.
"The Omani government places great importance on Chinese language education. Learning Chinese is essential for preparing for the future, and introducing Chinese language courses in high schools is a crucial step for Oman in embracing the future, opening up to the world, and implementing Oman's 'Look East' strategy," said Masooma. She added that the Ministry of Education is willing to collaborate closely with China's Ministry of Education and the Chinese Embassy in Oman to expand Chinese language education in Oman and nurture talents who will continue the friendship between Oman and China for generations to come.
During the subsequent 'Amazing China' Chinese Camp event, 160 Omani students were recognised and immersed themselves in themed exhibition areas featuring Hanfu displays, Go matches, Chinese martial arts, intangible cultural heritage handicrafts, tea art and calligraphy, traditional Chinese musical performances, and 'A Bite of China' culinary experiences. At the BGP exhibition booth, students used VR headsets to experience China's advanced exploration technologies and the company's commitment to environmental protection.
"China has proposed the Global Civilisation Initiative, which aims to promote inclusiveness, coexistence, exchanges, and mutual learning among civilisations. Supporting the integration of Chinese language education into Oman's national education system and organising colourful cultural exchange activities not only reflects the traditional friendship between China and Oman but also represents a valuable gift from China to Omani youth," said Ambassador Lyu Jian.
The event was jointly organised by the Chinese Embassy in Oman and the Ministry of Education, Oman, undertaken by BGP and China-Arab TV, and supported by the Across Ages Museum and overseas Chinese associations in Oman.
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