UB Confucius Institute and Chinese Embassy Host Vibrant 2025 ‘Chinese Bridge’ Proficiency Competition
The Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana (CIUB), in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy in Botswana, hosted the much anticipated annual ‘Chinese Bridge’ Proficiency Competition on the 29th of April 2025. Held at Block 253 Theatre Hall, the event celebrated the growing interest in Chinese language and culture among Batswana students and served as a platform for showcasing their linguistic abilities and cultural appreciation.
The competition, now a mainstay on the cultural calendar, drew participants from across the country and reflected the deepening ties between Botswana and China. Through engaging speeches and captivating performances, students demonstrated not only their command of the Chinese language but also their passion for cultural exchange.
In her welcome remarks, CIUB Director, Professor Rosaleen Oabona Nhlekisana, commended the students for their commitment and achievements.
“We have come together to celebrate the dedication of our students as they showcase their language skills and cultural knowledge. The competition strengthens the friendship and collaboration between Botswana and China. We are thrilled to witness this vibrant exchange,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address, Chinese Ambassador to Botswana, His Excellency Ambassador Fan Yong, hghlighted the historical significance of the Chinese language and the broader importance of cross-cultural understanding.
“Chinese language has a long history and is the crystallisation of China’s profound civilisation. Learning it allows for a better understanding of China’s past, present and future,” he said. Ambassador Fan also highlighted the significance of this year’s theme, “One World, One Family”, which aligns with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s vision of building “a community with a shared future for mankind.”
The competition featured two categories: the Chinese Speech Competition and the Chinese Talent Performance. In the speech segment, participants addressed the theme “One World, One Family,” while the talent showcase featured a variety of performances including music, dance and drama.
Out of nine finalists, Teto Thomas Bonno emerged as the overall winner, followed by Dineo Dichaba in second place and Aone Tamsyn Kyla Kinnear in third. Sharon Gracious T. Khumomotse secured fourth place, while Tankiso Kgomonyane from UB’s Chinese Studies Programme and Chilume Onkabetse Gabriel from BIUST received consolation prizes.