SATV Dec 16,Kathmandu, Nepal — Aiming to provide knowledge of the Chinese language to journalists actively working in Nepal, a Chinese language training program was launched today at the Confucius Institute of Kathmandu University. The program, jointly organized by the Nepal-China Media Forum and the Confucius Institute, marks a significant step in fostering cross-cultural communication and professional development for Nepali journalists.

The program witnessed the participation of over 40 journalists and media professionals from leading outlets, including Khabarhub, Gorkhapatra, and Jan Aastha. Originally initiated before the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has now resumed to further its mission of bridging linguistic and cultural gaps.

Speaking at the inauguration, Kishor Shrestha, Chairperson of the Nepal-China Media Forum, emphasized the importance of learning Chinese for Nepali journalists, even as a means of documentation. "Despite being a neighboring country, Chinese has not flourished in Nepal. This initiative aims to change that by equipping journalists with the skills to better understand and analyze Chinese publications," he said. Highlighting the benefits, Shrestha added, "Mastery of the Chinese language will enable our journalists to identify errors or biases in Chinese media, just as we do with our other neighboring countries. Beyond journalism, it will enhance personal and professional growth."

Director of the Confucius Institute, Li Shuwang Cheng, welcomed the participants and expressed optimism about the program's impact. He noted that learning Chinese is relatively simple and could positively influence the lives of participants. He believed that improving language proficiency among Nepali journalists would strengthen the Nepal-China friendship and enhance bilateral media cooperation. "Every Chinese character holds a unique piece of wisdom," he remarked, underlining the depth of learning involved.

Uddhav Pyakurel, Global Acting Director of the Engagement Division at Kathmandu University, conveyed his best wishes for the program's success. He shared his satisfaction with the growing interest in Chinese language education in Nepal, reflected in the increasing number of Chinese students at the university.

Trainer Chang Hong Wei described the opportunity to teach Chinese to Nepali journalists as a privilege. The program, planned to run for three months, could be extended if needed. The organizers also promised to provide outstanding trainees with opportunities to pursue further studies in China.

The program is expected to elevate Nepal-China media and technology exchanges to new heights. Organizers believe it will also enable the people of Nepal and China to explore each other's art and culture more comprehensively through journalism.

This initiative stands as a testament to the growing collaboration between the two nations, fostering a deeper mutual understanding and strengthening their longstanding ties.