N’Djamena — The national finals of the “Bridge to Chinese” competition, co-hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Chad and the Confucius Institute at the University of N’Djamena, celebrated linguistic excellence and cultural exchange between Chad and China. Held at the Mother-Child Human Sciences University in N’Djamena, the event highlighted the growing ties between the two nations.

The ceremony was addressed by Professor Mahamat Saleh Daoussa Haggar, President of the University of N’Djamena, who framed the competition as more than an academic exercise. He described it as a reflection of a changing world, a rising generation, and Chad’s expanding global engagement through intercultural dialogue and knowledge. He emphasized the pivotal role of youth in shaping the nation’s future, noting that education investments lay the foundation for peace, progress, and stability. Chinese proverbs were shared to underscore the value of lifelong learning and intergenerational knowledge transfer.

The “Bridge to Chinese” competition serves as a platform to strengthen academic and cultural exchanges between Chad and China while inspiring students to explore international opportunities through language mastery. This year’s event also commemorates six years since the establishment of the Confucius Institute at the University of N’Djamena—a milestone that has redefined the institution’s identity. Beyond language instruction, the institute has become a hub for cultural dialogue, fostering connections between people and nations, and serving as a catalyst for intellectual and societal transformation.

Diplomatic and academic leaders unite for collaboration

Addressing the audience, Ambassador Wang Xining of China underscored the significance of hosting the competition’s national finals in Chad. The event, held within the halls of the University of N’Djamena, symbolized the central role of higher education in fostering bilateral relations. He highlighted the robust cooperation between Chad and China in higher education, student exchanges, and youth development initiatives, particularly through scholarships, exchange programs, and Confucius Institute activities.

Ambassador Wang stressed that language learning transcends vocabulary and grammar—it builds bridges between civilizations. The competition’s theme, “Bridge to Chinese,” embodies this vision, representing not just a linguistic challenge but a human and cultural connection between the two countries. He praised the dedication of university leaders, faculty, and students, and encouraged young learners to embrace Chinese language studies as a gateway to global opportunities and personal growth.

He also highlighted the broader diplomatic efforts underway to align China’s 15th Five-Year Plan with Chad’s *Chad Connexion 2030* initiative. These strategic frameworks aim to create new avenues for practical cooperation and accelerate modernization in both nations, ultimately benefiting their peoples.