By Sarafina Christopher
China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, on Tuesday in Abuja said the Chinese government was committed to strengthening educational exchange programmes with Nigeria.
Dunhai stated this during the commissioning of the Chinese Corner and Award Ceremony for the 2024 Chinese Ambassador Drawing Competition at Government Secondary School, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja.
The ambassador noted that education was very important in fostering economic development and social progress.
“Education is a fundamental driver for national development.
By enhancing educational opportunities in Nigeria, we can work together to build a brighter future for both our nations.
“We believe that education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about building lasting friendships and partnerships,” he said.
Dunhai said China had established and equipped about 13 Chinese Corners in Nigeria with computers, Chinese books, and Chinese movies to promote education and cultural diversity.
He also outlined several ongoing key initiatives aimed at improving educational infrastructure and access in Nigeria.
“These initiatives include scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students to study in China, providing educational materials, and supporting the construction of schools in underserved areas,” he said.
Dunhai also mentioned the potential for collaborative programs between Chinese and Nigerian institutions to facilitate knowledge exchange and technological advancements..
Dr. Muhammed Ladan, the Director/Secretary of FCT Secondary Education Board, expressed gratitude for China’s unwavering support in improving the quality of education in Nigeria through valuable partnerships.
“The partnership with China in education is vital for our efforts to improve the quality of education in Nigeria.
“The Corners serve as resource centres for Chinese education and also serve as hubs for cultural exchange between Nigeria and China.
“We welcome these initiatives and look forward to working closely with the Chinese government,” Ladan said.
Mrs Josephine Ogwu, the school principal, appreciated the Embassy and Mr Martin Chen, Chairman of China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited, for establishing the Cultural Centre.
She noted that the centre signified China’s strong commitment to educational and cultural exchange.
Ogwu said the corner was important for facilitating educational and cultural interactions between Nigeria and China, broadening students’ global perspectives, and fostering tolerance to create global citizens.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that awards were given to students from 12 Chinese Corner schools for the drawing competition.
(NAN)
