The Confucius Institute at the University of Cabo Verde (Uni-CV) is marking a decade of teaching Chinese language and culture in the archipelago. According to Ermelinda Tavares, the institute’s National Director, more than 11,000 students have taken Mandarin courses during this period.

The number of students rose from about 400 in 2016 to 1,235 in 2026. The team, initially made up of three Chinese volunteer teachers and one Cabo Verdean teacher, now comprises 15 Chinese teachers, in addition to local teaching staff.

Following an agreement signed with the Ministry of Education in 2017, Mandarin instruction was extended to secondary schools. The Institute currently has classes in Praia, São Domingos, Assomada and Santa Cruz.

In addition to classes, the institution organises competitions, cultural weeks, summer programmes, international language-proficiency examinations and academic exchanges. These initiatives include the “Chinese Bridge” competition, whose winners may receive scholarships and study trips to China.

The Institute also co-ordinates the degree programme in Languages, Literatures and Cultures – Chinese Studies, which is currently being offered for the second time. Among the students in the first cohort, one teaches Mandarin and another works at the Chinese Embassy in Cabo Verde. In the coming years, the institution plans to continue expanding Chinese-language teaching and strengthening exchange programmes.

(Source: Balai, 6 August)