It was a fun-filled moment to experience varieties of Chinese socio-cultural heritage displayed by students of Confucius Institute, University of Lagos (UNILAG) and students from other parts of Nigeria at the Annual Chinese Spring Festival organised by CI, UNILAG. The event, which took place at the J. F. Ade. Ajayi Auditorium of the University on Thursday, February 29, 2024, also featured performances by pupils of UNILAG Staff School, UNILAG Women Society (ULWS) Nursery and Primary School, Redeemer Church, Onipan etc.
Setting the tone of the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola OON, FAS, welcomed everyone present and expressed her profound delight for the mutual relationship between the university and the Confucius Institute. While noting that “it was high time we understood the philosophy behind each language, and that through technology the world has become a very small village”. She wished everyone a happy experience at the festival.
The Nigerian Director of Confucius Institute, University of Lagos, Professor Obi Iwuagwu, in his welcome address, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone for gracing the event. He made it known that more Nigerians have registered with the Institute to learn the Chinese language and its culture. He assured the audience of different activities of entertainment.
The Chinese Director of the Institute, Professor Zhao Hongling, equally welcomed the audience to the Confucius Institute Annual Spring Festival, inviting them to feel relaxed and enjoy what the institute has in store to amuse them.
The activities of the festival were lined up with pleasant varieties of Chinese dance, sign language, songs, drama, poetry recitation, solo songs among others, to promote the socio-cultural heritage of China. Present at the event were: Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Mr Yan Yuqing; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Lucian Chukwu; Deputy Director, Confucius Institute, University of Lagos, Dr Adetoro Banwo; UNILAG Staff School pupils; ULWS pupils; Grace Secondary School; Redeemer Secondary School; Redeem Church, Onipan; Blooming Green School, to mention a few.
Author: Oluwatoyin Ojo-Alo
Photographer: Samuel Dosumu
