Ctg Correspondent
The Confucius Institute has formally begun its activities at Chittagong University (CU) to promote educational, cultural, linguistic and research ties between Bangladesh and China.
Established jointly by Yunnan Minzu University of China and Chittagong University, the institute is expected to provide opportunities for language learning, research, cultural exchange and greater people-to-people communication.
The formal launch took place on Monday morning with the unveiling of a plaque on the fifth floor of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. A discussion and cultural programme were later held at the auditorium of the Faculty of Business Administration.
CU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Forkan attended the programme as chief guest, while Ruan Chaoqi, Secretary of the Party Committee of Yunnan Minzu University, China, was the guest of honour.
Professor Dr Md Kamal Uddin, Director of the Confucius Institute at Chittagong University and Convener of the inauguration committee, chaired the programme.
In his speech, Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Forkan described the launch as a historic occasion for the university and said it would create new opportunities for internationalisation, language education, cultural exchange and research.
He said introducing Chinese as a third language for students could create opportunities for employment and professional development, noting that China is an important development and economic partner of Bangladesh.
Ruan Chaoqi said they were pleased and proud to establish the institute in partnership with Chittagong University. He said the initiative would further strengthen cooperation between the two universities in education, research, language and culture.
Professor Dr Md Kamal Uddin described the institute as a new milestone for Bangladesh and said it would contribute to stronger and more cooperative relations between Bangladesh and China.
Jia Wangwei, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute at Chittagong University, delivered the welcome address.
The programme was attended by university officials, teachers, students, members of the Chinese delegation and invited guests. A cultural programme featuring performances by students of Yunnan Minzu University and Chittagong University followed the discussion. #EK
