The Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has celebrated the 2026 United Nations Chinese Language Day on the theme: "Chinese: Sparking Colourful Dreams.”
The celebration, held at the Perfect Peace Preparatory School in Elmina, aimed to promote the richness of the Chinese language and culture while highlighting the contributions of Chinese language professionals within the UN system.
As part of the day's activities, students at the Confucius Institute treated the audience to Chinese songs, dances, and cultural performances that highlighted the growing global appeal of the Chinese language.
Addressing the gathering, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, Prof. Zang Yonghong, encouraged the students present to study the Chinese language and culture.
"Chinese learning nurtures talents and builds confidence. Chinese learning also opens doors to international exposure. Students who reach HSK level 2 have the opportunity to participate in a two-week summer camp in China, where they experience Chinese culture firsthand and immerse themselves in a real-life language environment," She added.
She said students of the Confucius Institute regularly perform at high-profile events organised by the Chinese Embassy in Ghana and the Ghana Association of Chinese Associations.
"Their excellence is further recognised through the Prestigious Ambassador Award presented to outstanding Chinese language learners," she added.
She outlined many economic benefits for students who would learn the Chinese language, including securing employment with Chinese companies in Ghana.
Prof. Zang Yonghong maintained that the achievements demonstrate that learning the Chinese language was not just about language; it was about building careers, accessing global opportunities, and transforming lives.
She used the opportunity to praise Hunan City University for establishing the Confucius Institute at UCC.
She also mentioned that the institute had programmes that helped entrepreneurs recruit talented individuals who could speak Chinese, noting that graduates from the institute often received higher salaries.
Also present was the Ghana Director of the Confucius Institute, Professor Emmanuel Amo Ofori, who reiterated that the Institute was not merely a language centre, but a cultural bridge connecting Ghana and China.
He praised the students for being ambassadors of cross-cultural learning and encouraged them to continue exploring the opportunities language learning presents.
Professor Amo Ofori emphasised the role of the Confucius Institute in cultural exchange and education.
"Through education and cultural programmes, the institute aims to strengthen ties between China and Ghana and provide valuable opportunities for students and professionals alike," he said.
For his part, the President of the Ghana Association of Chinese Societies and CEO of Fet Mining, Zhang Xiufeng, in his remarks, encouraged students to learn the Chinese language and contribute significantly to economic and cultural development.
"As we gather today to showcase the unique charm of the Chinese language and the profound depth of Chinese culture, it also reflects the vibrant enthusiasm and aspiration for knowledge among young students. Seeing your dedication to learning Chinese and your active engagement with Chinese culture fills me with great joy," he continued.
He said the Chinese language serves as an important bridge that transcends geographical boundaries and connects hearts and minds.
"It is also a vital bond that carries civilization forward and helps shape a shared future. Mastering Chinese not only enables a deeper understanding of China’s stories and cultural essence, but also broadens international perspectives and opens up greater opportunities for personal development," he said.
On his part, the Registrar of the College of Humanities and Legal Studies, Mr. Ebenezer Aggrey, expressed gratitude to the Chinese government and the Confucius Institute for their continuous support in promoting Chinese language education in Ghana.
He highlighted the value of language as a cultural tool, stating, “Language reflects identity and heritage. By learning Chinese, we embrace knowledge that enhances Ghana-China relations.”
He also expressed gratitude to the event organisers, acknowledging their hard work and dedication in putting together such an amazing and impactful celebration.
Other Chinese business tycoons in Ghana also delivered solidarity messages to mark the day.
In 2010, the UN Department of Public Information established the day, with the aim "to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity, as well as to promote equal use of all six of its official working languages throughout the organisation".
Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC
