The Durban University of Technology (DUT) and Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (FAFU) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening educational and cultural cooperation between South Africa and China, as the two institutions marked the third anniversary of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s reply letter to faculty and students of the DUT Confucius Institute.
Distinguished guests at the symposium.
Held on 18 August 2026, the symposium was hosted by DUT’s Chinese partner university, FAFU, and also featured a Seminar on International Education and Exchange. The event brought together more than 100 participants, including university leaders, academic and administrative representatives, staff and students.
DUT Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu, participated virtually in the opening ceremony, while Deputy Vice Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, and Chinese Director of the DUT Confucius Institute, Mr Lin Wu, attended the event in person.
In his virtual address, Professor Mthembu emphasised that the DUT Confucius Institute has evolved beyond its traditional role as a centre for language instruction. It has become a platform that connects language, culture, vocational education, technology, research and industry.
DVC:RIE Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola delivering the opening remarks.
He highlighted the Institute’s contribution to developing globally competent graduates while creating opportunities for deeper institutional collaboration between South Africa and China. He further noted that President Xi’s reply letter was an important affirmation of the value of educational cooperation and cultural dialogue, as well as the role universities can play in strengthening relations between nations.
Reflecting on the Institute’s 13 year journey, Professor Nemavhola highlighted its contribution to advancing international collaboration in higher education, particularly through knowledge exchange, academic cooperation and opportunities for staff and student development.
He noted that the continued partnership demonstrates the value of sustained institutional collaboration in creating opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
Director of the DUT Confucius Institute, Mr Lin Wu sharing CI’s practical experiences.
Mr Wu highlighted the progress of the Confucius Institute, with particular emphasis on its Chinese Plus programmes, which combine Chinese language education with vocational and professional skills. The programmes reflect the Institute’s growing focus on equipping students with complementary language, cultural and career oriented competencies. He also shared practical experiences and proposed opportunities for further development of the Institute.
President Xi Jinping’s reply letter, dated 18 August 2023, was addressed to faculty and students of the DUT Confucius Institute, encouraging them to learn the Chinese language well and contribute to strengthening friendship and cooperation between China and South Africa.
The letter followed the establishment of the DUT FAFU Confucius Institute in 2013 during President Xi’s diplomatic visit to South Africa. Over the past 13 years, the Institute has grown into an important platform for Chinese language education, cultural exchange and international collaboration.
The symposium provided an opportunity for both universities to reflect on the achievements of the Confucius Institute and explore opportunities for the next phase of their partnership. Chairperson of the University Council of FAFU, Professor Lai Hairong, and President of FAFU, Professor Xie Suyuan, expressed their appreciation for DUT’s continued support for the sustainable development of the Confucius Institute.
Looking ahead, DUT and FAFU reaffirmed their commitment to expanding opportunities for student and staff exchange and strengthening collaboration in education, culture, research and skills development. The symposium therefore served not only as a reflection on the Confucius Institute’s achievements, but also as a platform for shaping the next phase of the longstanding DUT FAFU partnership.
Pictured: DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu delivering a virtual address at the opening ceremony.
Photos: Supplied
Lin Wu
