Initiative aims to strengthen Bangladesh-China ties and equip students with international language skillsSpecial Correspondent: At a time when language proficiency is becoming increasingly important for higher education, employment and international communication, Manarat International University has launched a Chinese language course to enhance students' global competencies and expand their career opportunities.The inaugural ceremony was held on Monday (November 9) at 10:00am at the Cordoba Hall of the university's Gulshan campus, organised by its Centre for General Education (CGED).Professor Dr Mohammad Abdur Rob, Vice-Chancellor of Manarat International University and an internationally renowned environmental scientist, formally inaugurated the course by cutting a cake as the chief guest.Dr Yang Hui, Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Dhaka, attended the programme as the special guest, while Akib Irfan, a lecturer at the same institute, was present as the guest of honour.The programme was chaired by Dr Mohammad Abul Kalam Azad, Director of CGED. University Registrar A H M Abu Saeed also addressed the event.Speaking on the occasion, Professor Abdur Rob highlighted China's significant role as a development partner of Bangladesh and stressed the growing importance of learning Chinese in the context of the changing global landscape.He said that creating opportunities to learn Chinese would benefit not only university students but also people from different walks of life in Bangladesh."To understand a country, one needs to know its people, economy, history, culture and traditions. There is no alternative to language in developing a deeper understanding of these aspects," he observed.He further said that language could serve as a vital bridge for strengthening mutual understanding and friendly relations between Bangladesh and China.Expressing optimism, the Vice-Chancellor said the initiative would make an important contribution to further consolidating the longstanding friendship between the two countries.At the beginning of the ceremony, the guests welcomed students enrolled in the Chinese language course with flowers.Among others, Tasmiya Moslehuddin, Head of the Department of English; Associate Professor Dr Sabiha Sultana of CGED; and Associate Professor Dr Mohsina Akter of the Department of Business Administration attended the programme.The introduction of the course is expected to provide students with an opportunity to develop additional language skills and gain insights into Chinese culture and society. Proficiency in Chinese could also help them explore future opportunities in higher education, research, business, trade, employment and international professional engagement.Earlier, Manarat International University and the Confucius Institute at the University of Dhaka (CIUD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate Chinese language education.Under the agreement, the course has been launched with the support of the Confucius Institute and under the supervision of the university's Centre for General Education.The initiative marks a new step in educational cooperation between the two institutions and is expected to contribute to stronger people-to-people and institutional ties between Bangladesh and China.