?To mark International Chinese Language Day 2025, the Confucius Institute at Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (CISU), hosted a cultural celebration on 25 April, highlighted by the Maritime Silk Road Photo Exhibition.
The event formed part of the global celebration of Chinese language and culture and was held with the support of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Cape Town. Deputy Consul General Mr Tang Chang'an attended the opening of the exhibition, reinforcing the strong and growing cultural ties between China and South Africa.
Also in attendance were Prof Rou Juan Zheng, Director of the Confucius Institute at Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU); Mr Robert Kotzé, Senior Director of Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 International (SUI); and representatives from the Confucius Institutes of the 万博体育官网 of Cape Town (UCT) and the 万博体育官网 of the Western Cape (UWC).
The Maritime Silk Road Photo Exhibition offered a striking visual journey tracing the ancient trade route that historically linked China to Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Quanzhou, historically known as “Zayton," was showcased as a vibrant origin point in China, while the Cape of Good Hope represented a symbolic southern gateway, anchoring South Africa's connection to this global exchange. Through carefully curated imagery and historical interpretation, the exhibition shed light on centuries of trade, exploration, and cultural dialogue along the Maritime Silk Road.
“This exhibition aligns with the Confucius Institute's (CI) mission by highlighting the historical exchanges and cultural connections fostered through the Maritime Silk Road, encouraging mutual understanding between China and South Africa," said Prof Zheng. “One of the most important missions of CI is to promote better understanding between China and South Africa."
Zheng added “Through the photo exhibitions and cultural experiences we organised we hope that the CI can serve as a window for South African students and local community members to gain a deeper appreciation for the spirit of openness, cooperation, and cultural exchange that has connected people across continents for centuries — especially between China and South Africa."
Complementing the exhibition, attendees engaged in interactive cultural activities including Chinese tea ceremonies, calligraphy, paper cutting, and traditional beading. A variety of authentic Chinese snacks, such as mooncakes (yue bing) and savoury rice crackers (xian bei), were also served, creating an immersive and festive environment.
The celebration also welcomed principals, teachers, and learners from CISU's partner schools, where introductory Chinese language classes are offered. These included Stellenbosch High School, Kylemore High, False Bay Primary, Makupula Secondary School, and St Paul's Primary. The event provided learners with a rare opportunity to deepen their appreciation of the language and culture they are studying through live experience.
The CISU continues to promote intercultural understanding through language education and cultural programming. By hosting initiatives such as the Maritime Silk Road Photo Exhibition, CISU aims to illuminate the shared histories and global connections between China and Africa, fostering mutual respect, curiosity, and collaboration across cultures.
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