Confucius Institute, University of Lagos, has produced two finalists at this year’s edition of the Chinese Bridge Competition sponsored by Mobile giant, Huawei.
The gold medalist, Gbemisola Fadeyibi, and the silver medalist, Daniel Ehiagwina, of the Institute, won first and second place respectively, on Friday, beating 16 participants from 16 schools across the country.
The winner was awarded a certificate of participation, a cash price of half a million naira and an opportunity to represent Nigeria at the international edition of the Competition in China later this year.
Second place, was awarded a certificate of participation, a Huawei smart phone, and a travelling ticket to be part of the international audience at the Chinese Bridge Competition grand finale.
The Chinese Bridge Proficiency Competition in Nigeria, organized and sponsored by Confucius Institute Headquarters (Hanban) consists of three events: Chinese Bridge Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students, Chinese Bridge Competition for Foreign High School Student and the Proficiency Competition for Foreign Students in China.
Speaking on the increasing relevance of the Chinese language, Dr. Anthony Okeregbe, a senior lecturer in the department of Philosophy and the Deputy Director of the Confucius Institute, said that the federal government initially designed the competition for public schools but is currently having participants from both public and private schools.
He said the massive turn up at the event is a proof that interest from various schools at all levels is fast growing, explaining that the competition cuts across primary, secondary and tertiary levels of education.
“I will encourage every Nigerian who comes across any Chinese learning opportunity to cash on it and never miss it,” Dr Anthony said, adding: “China is where the world is headed.”
Meanwhile, the winner, Gbemisola Fadeyibi, has expressed delight at beating other participants to the price, saying she never expected to win.
