A group of Chinese teachers has arrived in Saudi Arabia to embark on a mission to enhance Mandarin education in the kingdom’s public schools as part of a broader effort to foster language and cultural ties between the two nations.

Introduction of Mandarin in Saudi Public Schools

The Saudi Education Ministry has organized a familiarization meeting for the teachers upon their arrival, as part of an integrated program designed to support the introduction of the Chinese language into public schools across the kingdom.

Familiarisation Program for Chinese Teachers

Workshops and Landmarks Tour

The week-long program includes a series of workshops aimed at familiarizing the teachers with the Saudi education system, as well as visits to various landmarks within the kingdom. This initiative is crucial in ensuring the smooth integration of Mandarin into the educational framework.

Teaching Locations and Government Decisions

The Chinese language will be taught in schools across several regions, including Riyadh, Yanbu, the Eastern Province, Jeddah, Jazan, and Tabuk, following a 2023 government decision that approved the teaching of Mandarin alongside Arabic and English.

Growing Mandarin Education in Saudi Arabia

Expansion in Universities and Schools

Mandarin education is not limited to public schools. It is also expanding in Saudi universities. The College of Languages at the Riyadh-based Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University recently celebrated the graduation of its first batch of 45 students who earned a bachelor’s degree in the Chinese Language program.

Bilateral Cooperation in Language Education

The introduction of Mandarin into Saudi educational institutions is part of an agreement between Saudi Arabia and China to strengthen cooperation in language education. The Saudi Education Ministry, along with the Centre for Language Education and Cooperation under China’s Ministry of Education, co-organized pre-service training for the teachers at Tianjin Normal University.

Future Prospects for Chinese Language Education in the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia plans to further expand the teaching of Mandarin, following Chinese President Xi Jinping's official visit to the kingdom in late 2022. During his visit, Xi met with King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed, where he announced that China would offer thousands of opportunities to teach the Chinese language across Gulf countries.

Related Articles

Saudi Arabia To Introduce Chinese Language Program In Middle Schools Amid Growing Ties With Beijing

Saudi Education Ministry's Directive: 2 Weekly Chinese Language Classes