Ningbo's Confucius Institute celebrates 10 years of cultural exchange

Mary, who studies at the Confucius Institute, performs. [Photo/Yongpai App]

Nottingham Confucius Institute China Ningbo Branch, based at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), celebrated its 10th anniversary on Oct 16, marking a decade of connecting China and the world through language and culture.

Since its establishment in 2016, the institute has enrolled more than 2,000 students from around 60 countries and regions and hosted over 400 HSK Chinese proficiency tests.

Beyond language lessons, it introduces both international students and residents to Chinese traditions through activities such as making dumplings, writing Spring Festival couplets, and experiencing traditional crafts.

For Mary, a 72-year-old American who has lived in Ningbo since 2013, learning Chinese at the institute inspired her to give back. Since March 2022, she has volunteered to teach English to residents free of charge, helping people of different ages build language skills and friendships.

The institute has also expanded cultural exchange beyond the classroom, helping 30 primary and secondary schools in Ningbo establish sister-school partnerships and sending Chinese painting teachers to Britain.

From helping newcomers navigate daily life in China to fostering international friendships, the institute has spent a decade demonstrating how language learning can build bridges between cultures.