Students learn handicraft during a Chinese Language Day celebration in Central Region, Ghana, on April 16, 2025. Some schools in Ghana's Central Region and the Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Coast (CIUCC) on Wednesday presented splendid performances to herald the United Nations Chinese Language Day, annually observed on April 20. (Xinhua/Seth)

ACCRA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Some schools in Ghana's Central Region and the Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Coast (CIUCC) on Wednesday presented splendid performances to herald the United Nations Chinese Language Day, annually observed on April 20.

Chinese language learners in the region showcased lion dances, martial arts, and Chinese songs during the event, winning rounds of applause from the audience.

Emmanuel Essuman, central regional director of the Ghana Education Service, lauded the CIUCC for its cooperation with the regional educational directorate to promote multilingualism among learners in the region.

"As educators, we are called to be versatile, adaptable, and forward-thinking in the increasingly interconnected world. The ability to navigate multiple languages and cultures is not just an advantage, but also a necessity," said Essuman.

He urged the learners to develop an interest in multilingualism due to the opportunities that may arise from that in the future. "Embracing languages opens doors to new experiences, cultures, and connections that can profoundly enrich your lives," said the regional director.

In his remarks, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana Tong Defa highlighted the Chinese language as a bridge for communication and a golden key to deepening understanding and fostering cooperation.

"In recent years, Chinese language education in Ghana has flourished. As a vital platform for China-Ghana cultural exchanges, the Confucius Institutes have cultivated numerous outstanding students," Tong said.

"China and Ghana have been enjoying a long, traditional friendship, as we are now strategic partners. A close and friendly relationship has brought great benefits for our two countries and two peoples. It could not be achieved without efforts by Ghanaian brothers and sisters who mastered the Chinese language," the ambassador added.

Representatives from the Chinese community in Ghana and Ghana's traditional rulers and educators also attended the event. ■

Students learn Chinese calligraphy during a Chinese Language Day celebration in Central Region, Ghana, on April 16, 2025. Some schools in Ghana's Central Region and the Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Coast (CIUCC) on Wednesday presented splendid performances to herald the United Nations Chinese Language Day, annually observed on April 20. (Xinhua/Seth)