The management and students of the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos joined in the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival on Friday, September 16, 2022.
At the event held at Afe Babalola Hall, UNILAG, friends and well-wishers of the Institute were serenaded with colourful performances by different contingents of students across different levels.
Professor Chimdi Maduagwu, the Nigerian Director of the Institute, described the festival as a very important Chinese festival which commemorates the values of harmony, togetherness, and family reunion.
“These are values that are universal in nature and should normally find expression in our own society too. I therefore enjoin you all to join us in the celebration.”, Professor Maduagwu said.
The Chinese Director of the Institute, Professor Zhao Hongling took the audience down memory lane by recounting the Legend of Hou Yi, the archer who saved the earth from the scorching heat of Ten Suns, and his wife, Chang’e.
“It is my hope that this colourful celebration and the lessons of love, harmony, and family reunion will remain in your memory for a long time and find expression in your lives”, said Professor Hongling.
In addition to the choreographed performances and drama presentations of students of the Institutes, the highlight of the event was the cutting of the Moon Cake, which was shared with the audience.
The celebration also provided the opportunity for students of the Confucius Institute to demonstrate their proficiency of the Chinese language.
The Wife of the Vice-Chancellor, Mrs Oluwaseun Ogundipe and Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Alabi Soneye added glamour to the event with their presence.
The Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is the second most important festival in China after the Chinese New Year. It is celebrated annually.
