By Ibrahim Sesay 

Confucius Institute, Fourah Bay Colleage, University of Sierra Leone in Sierra Leone has hosted the 24th Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition on the theme: "One World, One Family." The event, held on June 10 at Bintumani Conference Centre, saw twelve contestants from Fourah Bay College and the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences competing to demonstrate their Chinese language proficiency and cultural talents. The competition also featured rounds in Chinese speaking, image interpretation and talent performance, underscoring the growing educational and cultural ties between China and Sierra Leone.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie commended the Confucius Institute and the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone for promoting language learning and cultural understanding.

“This event is not just a competition, it is a celebration,” she said. “ It is also a celebration of language, of youth and of the enduring friendship between the people of Sierra Leone and the People's Republic of China.”

The Minister emphasized that the Chinese language serves as a bridge that fosters global cooperation and mutual respect and applauded students for mastering one of the world’s oldest and richest languages.

“Learning Chinese opens doors to academic opportunities, trade, innovation and diplomacy,” she added. “Whether you win today or not win, you are already Ambassadors of learning, cultural connection and Sierra Leone’s future.”

Professor Aiah Lebbie, Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone, shared the Minister’s sentiments. He praised the students for their courage and commitment to becoming "global citizens through language."

“This competition is not just about language proficiency; it’s about becoming a bridge between cultures,” Prof. Aiah Lebbie said. “Through calligraphy, song or speech, you have demonstrated a deep embrace of global understanding rooted in respect, harmony and lifelong learning.”

He called on the participants to carry the values of "Confucian wisdom" with them and lauded their excellence and perseverance.

Also in attendance was His Excellency Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, who emphasized the increasing popularity of the Chinese language globally and its role in strengthening China-Sierra Leone relations.

“The Chinese language is more than a communication tool, it is a key to unlocking over 5,000 years of uninterrupted civilization,” he said. “It offers better job prospects for local youth and strengthens the bond of cooperation between our two countries.”

Ambassador Wang Qing highlighted the significance of the recent UN resolution, co-sponsored by China and Sierra Leone, establishing June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations.

This year’s competition concluded with Effiong Solomon Joshua, a year four student majoring in Chinese language from Fourah Bay College, emerging as the winner. With visible excitement, he shared how the moment marked the climax of years of dedication.

“I feel very, very excited. I've been praying for this since my first year,” Solomon Joshua said. “This competition isn’t just a certificate for me; it's a milestone. I believe I’m now more confident to compete on the international stage.”

He revealed how he plans to further develop his talents in performance, writing and spoken Chinese in preparation for global competitions where he will be representing Sierra Leone.

The Chinese Bridge competition, held annually, serves not only as a language contest but also as a celebration of cultural exchange and global friendship. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/confucius-institute-hosts-24th-chinese-bridge-chinese-proficiency-competition-in-freetown/