The Consul-General of China in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, has advocated for the expansion of Mandarin language teaching in Nigerian schools. She made this call during a visit to Grace Schools in Lagos.
Yuqing interacted with pupils learning Mandarin as part of the school’s foreign language programme. Grace Schools began teaching Mandarin as a subject 16 years ago.
China supports Mandarin education in Nigeria
According to the envoy, China already supports Mandarin education in Nigeria. This support comes through the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos. It also includes Chinese language classrooms in primary and secondary schools.
“I am happy to visit Grace School,” she said. “I can see that many Nigerian students like the Chinese language, culture, history and people. Children are the hope of every nation, and I am glad to hear many of them say they dream of visiting China.”
She commended the pupils for their proficiency in Mandarin. She also expressed optimism that more Nigerian students would study and work in China.
“I’m happy that the children are learning Chinese well,” she added. “I love Nigeria. We have similar attire, and I enjoy moi moi, jollof rice and egusi.”
2026 designated China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchange
Speaking further, she noted that greater educational and cultural exchanges would strengthen relations between both countries. These exchanges would also equip young Nigerians with global opportunities.
She said 2026 has been designated the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchange. Education and cultural cooperation occupy a central place in bilateral relations.
The envoy said China would continue to support Nigerian students through scholarships, teacher and student exchange programmes, and educational donations. These initiatives aim to deepen mutual understanding.
She noted that the Chinese government provides scholarships through its Ministry of Education to students from African countries, including Nigeria.
Grace Schools introduced Mandarin in 2010
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Grace Schools, Mrs Olatokunbo Edun, said the school introduced Mandarin in 2010. The school recognised China’s growing economic influence and the opportunities it presents for young Nigerians.
She said Mandarin is taught from Nursery Two to Senior Secondary School II. Many pupils can now read, write, and converse fluently in the language.
According to Edun, proficiency in Mandarin gives students a competitive advantage in the labour market.
“Even if you have a degree, you may not get a job,” she said. “But if you speak Mandarin, the job is yours. We are trying to prepare our children for the global workplace from an early age.”
She disclosed that one pupil had already attained HSK Level 3 at the age of six. This is an internationally recognised Chinese language proficiency qualification.
Edun said the school had invested significantly in the programme. This investment came through its partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos, which has trained several teachers in Mandarin instruction.
Parents express satisfaction with programme
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Parents-Teachers Association, Omoruyi Edoigiawerei, said parents were pleased with the programme. He expressed confidence that it would position their children for future opportunities in international business and diplomacy.
He also commended China for promoting trade and educational cooperation with Nigeria.
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