The Confucius Institute at the National University of Samoa (N.U.S) will be offering community courses for the public to learn the Chinese language.

There will be two different course levels available, the first being the Chinese for beginners Part A for those who are studying the language for the first time, and Chinese for Business Communication Part A which is an intermediate course for those who have studied basic Chinese skills. 

The Director of the Confucius Institute at N.U.S, Dr. Tony Liang told the Samoa Observer on Wednesday via WeChat that he was pleased with the community courses. 

“I feel very glad that Chinese languages Community courses are being offered through the Confucius Institute at the University again,” Dr. Liang said.

“We have recruited two local lecturers to teach Chinese language. The restarting of Community Chinese Courses gives an opportunity  and can help those community residents and students who are interested in learning Chinese.

“There are almost no requirements for someone to attend the beginner-level classes, only perhaps above 8 years old. For the intermediate level courses which focus on business communication, basic Chinese skills in listening and speaking will be preferred.” 

He said the Beginner-level will teach elementary knowledge about Chinese language, and basic skills will be trained in an integrated approach; while Intermediate level will focus on Chinese language and culture for business purposes, and frequently used vocabulary and expressions in business context will be taught and practised in a communicative approach.

“I think it is a good opportunity for Samoans to learn and understand Chinese language and culture. Especially for people who want to find a job in Chinese-funded companies, to do trade or tourism businesses and cooperations with Chinese enterprises, to get scholarships and study further in China,” he said. 

“I think Community Chinese courses is specially useful and helpful for those Samoans who have Chinese blood. 

“The course will start from March 8 at Confucius Institute at the N.U.S. We sincerely welcome Samoans to join this wonderful program. The children of Chinese people in Samoa are also welcome to attend our classes if they need to improve Chinese language skills, because most primary schools and colleges do not teach kids Chinese language.”