China has unveiled plans to establish a Chinese Centre at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Rivers State, as part of efforts to promote cultural and educational collaboration between both countries.
The announcement was made by China’s Consul-General in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, during a courtesy visit to UNIPORT by a delegation from the Chinese Consulate.
According to a statement issued by UNIPORT’s Public Relations Officer, Dr Sammy Kpenu, in Port Harcourt, Yuqing, who was represented by Prof. Liu Hongwu, Director of the Institute of African Studies at Zhejiang Normal University, expressed confidence that the centre would strengthen China-Nigeria relations.
“The centre will further strengthen educational and cultural exchanges between China and Nigeria, providing UNIPORT students with greater access to Chinese resources, training, and opportunities,” she said.
Yuqing also revealed plans to launch the ‘China Window,’ a platform aimed at increasing Nigerians’ exposure to the Chinese language, culture, and academic opportunities.
“Our aim is to open a window through which Nigerians can gain a better understanding of China. This is part of our ongoing commitment to strengthening educational and cultural ties with Africa, particularly with institutions such as UNIPORT,” she added.
She expressed hope that the initiative would yield lasting benefits for both nations.
In his remarks, UNIPORT’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, applauded the Chinese Government’s consistent engagement with Africa, especially in the areas of education, culture, and infrastructure.
He appreciated the Chinese Consulate for choosing UNIPORT among universities in the Niger Delta and affirmed the institution’s readiness to support the success of the Chinese Centre.
Georgewill noted that UNIPORT had now officially launched a Chinese Language Programme.
“This is part of our broader initiative to expand our academic offerings to students and to bridge the skills gap in Nigeria’s evolving labour market,” he said.
He added that language exchange programmes would improve students’ employment prospects, particularly in Chinese-owned businesses operating within the country.
“The growing presence of Chinese companies in Nigeria makes it essential for our people to acquire language and cultural skills that will enhance their employability and competitiveness. This collaboration is timely, and we must fully leverage the opportunities it presents,” he stated.
The Vice-Chancellor described the planned centre as a major step forward in UNIPORT’s efforts to boost cultural and academic ties with China.
(NAN)