UNIZIK Confucius Institute Wins Global First Prize at “Chinese Bridge” for the Third Time

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has recorded another international milestone as its Confucius Institute emerged winner of the Global First Prize at the 24th “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College (University) Students, held in Pingtan, Fujian.

Ms. Ukachukwu Chizurum Nwanneka, who represented the Institute, distinguished herself among top global contestants, breaking into the Top 10 before claiming the Global First Prize and the prestigious title of “Chinese Language Ambassador.” Remarkably, she began her Chinese language journey at the Institute in September 2023 with no prior knowledge and, in less than two years, rose to international acclaim.

Announcing the achievement, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr. Njelita Louis, described it as a proud moment for the institution and a testament to the Confucius Institute’s excellence in language teaching and cultural exchange.

Since 2018, the Confucius Institute at UNIZIK has produced 10 contestants for the “Chinese Bridge” World Competition, all of whom reached the global Top 30. Among them, 3 have won Global First Prize, 4 Global Third Prize, and 3 emerged African Champions—a record that underscores the Institute’s impact in transforming complete beginners into world-class competitors.

In addition, Chizurum’s coach, Ms. Qiu Nan, was honored with the award of “Outstanding Chinese Bridge Instructor” by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation of the Ministry of Education. Since 2022, she has successfully guided 4 contestants into the global finals, including 1 Global First Prize winner, 2 Global Third Prize winners, and 1 African Champion.

She is expected to lead contestants in the Secondary School category to China on September 12, with high hopes of continuing the winning streak.