In a remarkable display of linguistic prowess, Miss Jacob Omotola Angel, a student from Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s Confucius Institute, has emerged as the African champion in the 16th Global Chinese Bridge Competition for Secondary School Students held in China.
The competition, which saw participants from 93 countries, witnessed Miss Jacob’s stellar performance throughout, culminating in an impressive third-place finish globally. Despite facing a challenging question in the final round, described as tricky even by the Chinese audience and professional teachers present, she managed to secure her position among the top contestants.
What makes Miss Jacob’s achievement even more astounding is the fact that she studied Chinese for a mere 18 months before entering the competition. This stands in stark contrast to her competitors, with the global champion having lived in China for six years and the first runner-up having studied Chinese for nine years. Despite the apparent head start of her counterparts, Miss Jacob’s linguistic acumen and dedication to learning the Chinese language set her apart.
Prof. Yu Zhangbao, head of the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, expressed immense pride in Miss Jacob’s accomplishment. “She is the third African champion and the second African champion of Secondary School Students. We believe that, in actuality, she was the best in the world,” said Prof. Zhangbao.
Miss Jacob’s victory comes with prestigious recognition as she is awarded the title of “Chinese Language Ambassador” along with a full scholarship for a four-year bachelor’s degree in China, complete with a round-trip international flight ticket.
This success adds another feather to the cap of Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s Confucius Institute, which has consistently demonstrated excellence in Chinese language education on the global stage. Since October 2018, the institute has secured four global “Third Prizes,” two global “First Prizes,” three African champions, and two world champions in the Chinese Bridge competition for foreigners studying in Chinese universities.
The achievements of the Confucius Institute have not gone unnoticed, contributing significantly to the international standing of both the institute and Nnamdi Azikiwe University as a whole. Prof. Zhangbao extended gratitude to the university Management for their unwavering support, acknowledging their pivotal role in these accomplishments.