News

On October 7, the Tourism Confucius Classroom at the University of Donja Gorica, Montenegro held a welcome event for new students at the beginning of the new semester. A total of 85 students have registered for Chinese language courses this semester — the highest number in the Classroom’s history — demonstrating the growing enthusiasm among local students for learning Chinese.

(Photos 1: Scene from the new student welcome event)

At the start of the semester, the Confucius Classroom organized a series of activities such as Chinese language workshops and a Mid-Autumn Festival cultural experience event, which sparked students’ interest in learning Chinese. Ms. Fu Lili, the Chinese director of the Confucius Classroom, remarked at the event, “I’m delighted to see so many students enrolling in Chinese courses — breaking our previous record.” She also noted that about one-third of the new students actively participated in the recent Mid-Autumn Festival cultural event. She emphasized that “Chinese is not just a language tool, but also an important gateway for students to explore the world and broaden their horizons,” encouraging students to persevere in their studies.

(Photo 2: Chinese Director Fu Lili delivering remarks at the event)

This semester, the Confucius Classroom also welcomed a new teacher to the team. Lu Lingrong, the new Chinese instructor, said she was deeply impressed by the warm and friendly atmosphere in Montenegro and delighted by the students’ strong interest in learning Chinese. She encouraged students to overcome the initial challenges of language learning and to persist, believing that “with dedication, they will surely gain rewarding results.”

Lai Peiyu, who has been teaching at the Confucius Classroom since 2021, reflected on her journey from online to in-person instruction. She expressed her hope to make classes more lively and engaging, allowing students to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture alongside language learning.

Shi Xinwei pointed out that Chinese grammar—particularly regarding tenses and word inflections—is much simpler compared with Montenegrin. “I believe that through hard work, everyone will be able to master Chinese,” she said confidently.

(Photos 4–6: Teachers Lu Lingrong, Lai Peiyu, and Shi Xinwei sharing their teaching and learning experiences)

As student enrollment continues to rise, the Confucius Classroom’s teaching and cultural activities have expanded significantly. It now offers courses ranging from HSK Level 1 to HSK Level 5, as well as specialized Chinese classes for students majoring in Chinese Studies and International Hotel Management. Facing diverse and multi-level teaching needs, the teaching team remains fully dedicated, ensuring smooth course delivery with a strong sense of responsibility and enthusiasm.

Despite the tight schedule, teachers continue to teach attentively and organize events with care, demonstrating their professionalism and commitment. Moving forward, the Confucius Classroom will continue to provide students with a richer Chinese learning experience and more diverse cultural activities, helping them broaden their global perspectives.

Text: Shi Xinwei

Photos: Lai Peiyu

Reviewed by: Fu Lili

Translated by: Lu Lingrong