On May 10 local time, the final of the 24th “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students, Romania Division, successfully concluded at the Confucius Institute at Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj. The Confucius Institute at University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa” from Iași (hereinafter referred to as “CIUMF”) participated in the competition for the first time and achieved impressive results, adding a brilliant chapter to its efforts in Chinese language education and cultural exchange.
This year’s competition attracted 22 contestants from five Confucius Institutes and one independent Confucius Classroom across Romania. Four students represented CIUMF. Despite being first-time participants in the Romanian division of the “Chinese Bridge” competition, the students showed great composure and enthusiasm as they engaged fully in every part of the contest.
During the themed speech session titled “One World, One Family”, the four contestants shared their profound understanding of concepts such as world peace and a community with a shared future for mankind. Their speeches demonstrated broad perspectives and a proactive attitude toward intercultural communication. In the Chinese Knowledge Quiz, the contestants were tested on their understanding of Chinese history, geography, and culture. Confronted with challenging questions, the CIUMF team remained calm and responded thoughtfully, drawing on their accumulated knowledge from daily learning.
In the Chinese Talent Show, each contestant showcased their unique abilities. Zavtoni Doina captivated the audience with her heartfelt rendition of the Chinese song “The World Bestows Upon Me”, expressing love and gratitude through music. Tataru Adrian Gabriel performed Tai Chi, demonstrating the harmony of strength and softness, a testament to the profoundness of Chinese martial arts. Iețcu Dimitrie delivered an emotional performance of the classic song “The Moon Represents My Heart”, touching the audience with his delicate expression and moving voice. Bechir Andreea performed the Chinese dance “Red Horse”, bringing the stage to life with vibrant energy and graceful movements.
After intense competition, all four contestants from CIUMF were awarded third prize. This accomplishment not only reflects their individual efforts but also vividly illustrates the achievements of CIUMF in Chinese language instruction and cultural promotion. After the event, the contestants expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support of the institute and their instructors. They emphasized that while this was their first “Chinese Bridge” competition, it would not be their last. With passion and determination, they plan to continue studying Chinese and strive for even greater success in the future.
CIUMF’s impressive debut at the Romanian division of the “Chinese Bridge” competition fully demonstrates its strength and potential in Chinese language education and intercultural exchange. Looking ahead, the institute will continue its mission to promote Chinese teaching and cultural dissemination, further strengthening the bridge of mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Romania.