Embracing Chinese Language Through Martial Arts: Botswana’s Unique Learning Approach – Xinhua

Botswana Students Sharpen Mandarin Skills with “Chinese Gongfu” Immersion

March 22, 2025

By Archyde News Staff

Confucius Institute event blends language practice and martial arts, reflecting growing Chinese influence in Africa and its implications for U.S. businesses.

Immersion in Language and Culture

GABORONE, Botswana – On Friday, March 22, 2025, the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana (CIUB) hosted an engaging cultural and language event. the focus was clear: provide Chinese language learners with a dynamic habitat to hone their speaking skills while simultaneously delving into the rich traditions of Chinese martial arts.

The event, themed “Chinese Gongfu,” masterfully intertwined the linguistic and the physical. Participants were introduced to essential vocabulary related to Chinese martial weaponry – knives, swords, spears, and whips – learning the terms in Mandarin. This wasn’t just rote memorization; the students actively practiced essential martial arts movements, solidifying their understanding through physical engagement.

This approach mirrors accomplished language immersion programs found in the United States, such as those offered at the Middlebury Language Schools, where students live and breathe the target language, accelerating their proficiency. The CIUB’s integration of culture and language reflects a similar commitment to holistic learning.

Voices of the Learners

The enthusiasm of the students was palpable. Keagile sebetlela, a CIUB student, confidently introduced himself in Chinese: Hello, everyone. My name is Shen Chenggong. He explained his motivation for learning Mandarin: I am interested in learning Chinese because, in my view, it has become one of the major international languages. I believe knowing Chinese can open many doors. Sebetlela also noted his enjoyment of writing Chinese characters,appreciating its unique nature compared to alphabet-based languages.

Sharon Khumomotse and Lindiwe Lile Ramooki, other students, showcased their linguistic skills through a performance, introducing themselves with their Chinese names before challenging the audience with Mandarin tongue twisters. Ramooki, who has been studying Chinese for three years and works at a bank, demonstrated her fluency, stating, I’m a Chinese learner studying the language for three years. I work at a bank office.

For Fidelity Monthe, who uses the Chinese name Fei Di’an, learning Mandarin is a strategic business decision.I run a small business and have traveled to China to source products. The biggest challenge has been interaction. Learning Chinese will help me expand my business and form partnerships with Chinese companies, Monthe explained. She also shared her appreciation for the artistic nature of Chinese characters, saying, Writing Chinese feels like drawing. It’s almost like being an artist. But what I enjoy most is speaking the language and being able to converse with Chinese people. I’m also learning about Chinese culture and want to explore it further.

The “Chinese Corner” Concept

The event,which drew approximately 70 participants,including both learners and teachers,encompassed a diverse range of activities. These included Chinese song performances, engaging language games, and stimulating group discussions.

Pu Durong, the Chinese director of CIUB, drew a parallel between the event and “English corners” common in China, where individuals practice their English speaking skills. he noted, In China, we have english corners for practicing English.Here in Botswana, we have a Chinese corner for students to improve their speaking skills. These learners are very passionate about the language, as many plan to do business in China.

Confucius Institutes in Botswana: A Growing Trend

The CIUB stands as the first Confucius Institute in Botswana, paving the way for a second institute which opened in October 2023 at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology in Palapye.This expansion highlights China’s increasing cultural and economic influence in Africa.

For American businesses, this trend underscores the growing importance of Mandarin language skills in international trade and diplomacy.As china’s economic footprint expands across Africa, understanding the language and culture becomes increasingly critical for effective communication and partnership. Many american companies are now offering language training benefits for employees to stay competitive in the global market.

Implications for U.S.Businesses

The rise of Mandarin learning in Botswana, and Africa more broadly, has significant implications for U.S. businesses.

• Increased Competition: As more individuals in African nations become fluent in Mandarin, Chinese companies gain a competitive edge in these markets.
• Supply Chain Considerations: For U.S. companies relying on African supply chains, Mandarin proficiency among local partners can streamline communication and improve efficiency.
• New Market Opportunities: Understanding the nuances of Chinese culture and language can unlock new market opportunities for U.S. businesses seeking to expand into Africa.
• Geopolitical Strategy: As China strengthens its presence in Africa, U.S. businesses need to adapt their strategies to navigate this evolving landscape.

Counterarguments and Considerations

While the rise of Mandarin learning in Africa presents opportunities, it also raises potential concerns.Some may argue that increasing Chinese influence could lead to economic dependence or political leverage. It’s vital for U.S. businesses to engage with African partners in a way that promotes mutual benefit and lasting advancement.

How can U.S. businesses leverage the growing number of Mandarin speakers in Botswana and Africa to their advantage?

Interview: Dr. Anya Sharma on the Rise of Mandarin in Botswana and its Impact on U.S. Businesses

Introduction

Welcome to Archyde News. Today, we have Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in international trade and language acquisition, to discuss the growing trend of Mandarin language learning in Botswana and its potential impact on U.S.businesses. Dr. sharma, thank you for joining us.

Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be hear.

Mandarin Learning and its Importance

Archyde News: Dr. Sharma, the Confucius Institute in Botswana is hosting events blending language and culture, specifically “Chinese Gongfu.” Could you elaborate on why this approach is gaining traction?

Dr. Sharma: Absolutely. Integrating Chinese martial arts, or “Gongfu,” with Mandarin language learning is a very effective strategy. It’s a form of immersive learning that encourages both linguistic and cultural understanding. It’s not just about memorizing vocabulary related to swords and spears, but experiencing the culture while practicing language skills. This approach, as seen with the “Chinese Corner”, mirrors successful language immersion programs like those found in the U.S.

Archyde news: Why is mandarin becoming so important for Botswana and Africa overall?

Dr. Sharma: The increase in mandarin learning reflects China’s growing influence in Africa, notably in areas like trade, infrastructure, and investment as mentioned in the UKZN Extended Learning programme. As China’s economic footprint expands, proficiency in Mandarin becomes essential for interaction and collaboration within international markets.

Implications for U.S. Businesses

Archyde News: how could the rise of Mandarin language skills in Africa impact U.S. Businesses?

Dr. Sharma: There are several ramifications. Firstly, it creates increased competition. As more Africans become fluent in Mandarin, Chinese companies will have an advantage in these markets. Secondly,supply chains will potentially become more efficient if U.S. companies can communicate effectively with local partners. understanding Chinese language and culture could unlock new market opportunities within Africa.

Archyde News: What advice would you give to U.S. companies looking to navigate this evolving landscape?

Dr. Sharma: U.S. businesses need to adapt. This means investing in Mandarin language training for employees, fostering partnerships with local African businesses, and understanding the nuances of Chinese culture. Strategic planning is crucial.

Looking Ahead

Archyde News: Are there any potential challenges or counterarguments to consider with the growing chinese influence?

Dr. Sharma: Certainly. Some may express concerns about economic dependency on China. Thus, it’s vital for U.S. businesses to work with African partners in a way that creates mutual benefit and long-term investment.

Archyde News: Thinking long-term, how do you see the relationship between the U.S., China, and Africa evolving over the next decade?

Dr. Sharma: It’s a very interesting situation.I believe we’ll see a more nuanced relationship.The U.S. will need to balance its economic interests with its geopolitical strategies. adaptability and a deep understanding of language and culture will be key.What are your thoughts, our readers? Do you see this rise of Mandarin in Africa as a challenge, an possibility or something else entirely? Your comments are welcome below.

Dr. Sharma: It has been a pleasure.