For many students at the University of Venda (UNIVEN), learning Chinese is becoming more than just an academic pursuit โ it is a pathway to scholarships, career opportunities and international exposure.
This was evident during a certificate awarding ceremony held on 14 April at the Green Technology Confucius Institute (GTCI) on the UNIVEN campus, where more than 100 students received certificates recognising their Chinese language proficiency.
Among the graduates was fourth-year International Relations student, Tshililo Khwathisi, who proudly received his certificate from UNIVEN Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Bernard Nthambeleni.
Khwathisi, who has been studying Chinese for two years, achieved Chinese proficiency levels 2A and 2B and is currently working towards HSK Level 3, an internationally recognised Chinese language qualification.
โMy goal is to continue studying Chinese and eventually reach Level 4 by the end of the year. I would like to further my studies in China and return to South Africa to work for a Chinese company,โ he said.
HSK Level 3 enables students to communicate effectively in everyday situations and perform basic reading and writing in Chinese, providing access to employment opportunities in Chinese-speaking environments.
โI chose to learn Chinese because I believe it will give me an advantage when searching for a job after graduation,โ Khwathisi added.
Known by his Chinese name, Wang Li, Khwathisi can now communicate fluently with his Chinese lecturers. According to GTCI Manager and Senior Lecturer Ted Xiong, efforts are underway to assist talented students in securing scholarships to continue their studies in China.
The institute’s Chinese Director, Grace Ruihong Ge, said learning Chinese strengthens communication and understanding between South Africa and China.
โWe are encouraged by the growing number of African students choosing to study Chinese. The language broadens their horizons, strengthens cross-cultural skills and improves their competitiveness in the global job market,โ she said.
Founded in December 2023, the Green Technology Confucius Institute was established as a platform where language, culture, innovation and sustainability intersect. Since launching Chinese language classes in March 2024, the institute has expanded rapidly.
Professor Nthambeleni said language serves as a bridge between cultures and opportunities.
โWhen we established this institute, we envisioned more than language lessons. We envisioned a platform where culture, innovation and sustainability meet. Language is the key that unlocks understanding,โ he said.
Addressing students at the ceremony, Nthambeleni highlighted China’s advancements in green technology and encouraged learners to use their language skills to access global knowledge and opportunities.
โYour achievement goes beyond learning vocabulary and grammar. You have gained access to a world of knowledge, particularly in areas such as renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, waste management and eco-friendly innovations,โ he said.
The institute has also facilitated international exchange opportunities. In June and July 2025, 11 UNIVEN students participated in a 15-day study and cultural exchange programme in China, where they experienced academic life at Hubei University of Technology and visited the historic cities of Wuhan and Yichang.
Chinese language education has since expanded beyond the university campus. Classes are now offered at the UNIVEN kindergarten, Munzhedzi Primary School and Marude Secondary School.
To date, more than 1,500 students aged between five and 65 have registered for Chinese language courses, while community events hosted by the institute have attracted more than 6,000 participants.
Professor Nthambeleni urged students to view their certificates as the beginning of a lifelong journey.
โUse your Chinese language skills to read research papers, communicate with international partners, apply for scholarships and bring new technologies back to our communities. You are now ambassadors of cultural understanding and environmental stewardship,โ he said.
The growing popularity of Chinese language studies at UNIVEN reflects increasing interest among young Africans in acquiring skills that can unlock educational, business and employment opportunities in one of the world’s largest economies.
