The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Confucius Institute successfully hosted the South African Finals of the prestigious Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition at the Coastlands Hotel Umhlanga, marking a significant milestone in the 25th anniversary celebrations of the global Mandarin language competition.
This year’s event brought together outstanding primary and secondary school learners from across South Africa, representing a wide network of participating institutions and Confucius Institute teaching stations. Among the participating centres were the teaching stations of the University of Cape Town, the University of the Western Cape, the University of Venda, Rhodes University, and Stellenbosch University, as well as the Pretoria Chinese School and the Confucius Classroom at the Chinese Culture and International Education Exchange Centre. These institutions played a key role in preparing learners and promoting Mandarin language education across the country.
The competition created a dynamic platform for learners to demonstrate Mandarin proficiency, cultural understanding, and artistic expression. Participants impressed judges and audiences through structured speeches, written assessments, and vibrant talent performances that included singing, dancing, painting, and traditional Chinese cultural presentations.
The finals followed DUT Confucius Institute’s continued academic success, where its university students recently achieved first and second place in the national Chinese Bridge university category. The winning learners will represent South Africa at the international finals in China, competing against top Mandarin learners from around the world.
Speaking at the event, Dr Lavern Samuels, Director of International Education Partnerships at DUT, reflected on the long-standing value of the Confucius Institute within the university. He stated, “It is a very important part of the fabric of our university to have this Confucius Institute.” He further highlighted education as a transformative force, quoting Nelson Mandela: “Education is the great engine of personal and social development.” Dr Samuels also reinforced the importance of unity and collaboration, adding, “If you want to go far, go together.”
Representing the Department of Basic Education, Hleki Mabunda described the competition as a symbolic and practical bridge between cultures. He noted, “We have a bridge so that when we walk across to the other side, we do not struggle,” emphasising that the initiative connects young South Africans to global opportunities in education, culture, and future careers.
Acting Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Durban, Miao Miao, described the Chinese Bridge as far more than a language competition, stating, “The Chinese Bridge is more than a language competition. It is a bridge of friendship, understanding, and cultural exchange.” She encouraged learners to continue engaging with Mandarin as a pathway to deeper cultural appreciation and international cooperation.
Additional remarks highlighted that 2026 marks a key year for China Africa people to people exchanges, as well as a decade since Chinese language education was formally integrated into South Africa’s national education system. This reflects the growing interest among South African learners in Mandarin and the strengthening of educational ties between the two countries.
The competition followed a rigorous three-part evaluation process, consisting of a written Chinese knowledge test, a Chinese speech component, and a talent showcase. Judges applied a standardised scoring system, ensuring fairness before calculating final results.
Learners delivered powerful and creative performances that showcased both linguistic ability and cultural appreciation. Many participants wore traditional Chinese attire, while others integrated storytelling, visual art, and stage performances that reflected their understanding of Chinese culture and global communication.
Mr Wu Lin, Director of the Confucius Institute at DUT, delivered the closing remarks, thanking learners, educators, parents, judges, and partners for their contribution to the success of the event. He encouraged students to view the competition as a starting point for continued growth, stating that their journey in Mandarin learning should extend beyond the stage and into future academic and professional opportunities.
He further emphasised that collaboration between South African institutions and Chinese educational partners remains central to the success of the programme, recognising the shared effort behind every stage of planning, training, and execution.
The competition concluded with the announcement of winners. In the secondary school category, first place was awarded to Awethu Malusi (15) from Cape Academy of Maths, Science and Technology. In the primary school category, first place was awarded to Aleah Ramouthar (9) from Virginia Preparatory School.
Organisers commended all participants for their dedication and courage, noting that every learner who participated had already succeeded by embracing cross-cultural learning and stepping confidently onto the stage. The event ended on a celebratory note, reinforcing the Chinese Bridge as a powerful symbol of friendship, education, and global connection.
Pictured: DUT Confucius Institute staff member and secondary school learners who participated on the competition.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Sinamile Sithole
