On June 15, 2025, the grand finale of the “Bridge of Chinese Language” competition took place in Bahrain, showcasing the impressive mastery of Mandarin among foreign students at local universities and schools. This event celebrated linguistic and cultural exchange and attracted students from various educational backgrounds, highlighting the growing interest in Chinese language studies in Bahrain. The “Bridge of Chinese Language” competition aims to foster understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture while nurturing language skills among participants.
Ceremony Highlights
The awards ceremony was hosted at the University of Bahrain in Al-Sakhir, drawing nearly 200 attendees, including educators, students, and representatives from Chinese businesses and organizations in Bahrain. The competition’s local coordination was managed by the University of Bahrain, its Confucius Institute, Saint Christopher’s School, and Abdulrahman Kanoo School. Among the 32 finalists, participants showcased their talents through various cultural performances, including lion dances, traditional Chinese songs, and artistic displays of Chinese calligraphy.
A Platform for All Ages
Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, Ni Ru Chi, remarked on the significance of this year’s “Bridge of Chinese Language” competition, which for the first time encompassed all age groups, from university students to elementary school pupils. “This inclusive approach provided a comprehensive platform for Chinese language enthusiasts of all ages to demonstrate their skills,” he stated, emphasizing the event’s role in strengthening the strategic partnership between China and Bahrain.
Recognition and Future Aspirations
Dr. Hessa Jassim Al-Junaid, Vice President of the University of Bahrain, voiced her pride in organizing the event in collaboration with the Confucius Institute. “This celebration honors the students’ passion and hard work in learning Chinese and understanding its culture,” she expressed. The highlight of the evening was the announcement of Dalia Eid Hamida Khalaf Al-Ammash from the University of Bahrain as the winner in the university student category, earning her the opportunity to represent Bahrain in the global finals of the “Bridge of Chinese Language” competition in China.
A Bright Future Ahead
In her acceptance speech, Dalia shared her enthusiasm for mastering the Chinese language: “Every day, I strive to improve my skills in this beautiful language. This experience has granted me greater confidence, and I am excited to travel to China for further learning. This is just the beginning.” Her achievement underlines the potential for future linguistic and cultural exchange, fostering deeper ties between the two nations through education and language proficiency.