The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has hosted the Ghana Local Chinese Language Teacher Training Programme, an initiative designed to enhance the capacity of Ghanaian teachers in Chinese language instruction.

Organised by the Regional Training Centre for local Chinese teachers, the programme attracted key stakeholders in education and diplomacy, highlighting the increasing collaboration between Ghana and China through language and cultural exchange.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prof. Emmanuel Amo Ofori, Ghana Director of the Confucius Institute, underscored the importance of the training.

“This initiative is a strategic step toward promoting global partnerships,” he said. “Proficiency in Chinese opens doors to academic exchanges and international collaboration. We are committed to bridging the gap between Ghana and China.”

Dr Mrs Juliette Dufie Otami, Central Regional Director of Education, commended the teachers for taking part in the programme and urged them to make the most of the opportunity.

“As educators, we are also learners who must remain deeply committed and globally aware,” she said. “Embrace this opportunity with dedication and a sense of purpose.”

Prof Kwame Osei Kwarteng, Provost of the College of Humanities and Legal Studies at UCC, echoed the importance of international cooperation in modern education.

“We are all aware that in the 21st century, the world is a global village. This calls for greater collaboration,” he said.

“I commend the University’s management for staying ahead with such positive initiatives.”

Representing the Central Regional Minister, Hon. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, Gustav Cobbinah Atu Esq described the programme as timely and impactful.

“We need more such initiatives because China has become a global force to reckon with,” he said.

“I urge participants to embrace collaboration, curiosity, and mutual support. Refrain from polluting your learners; guide them to grow in global competence.”

The ceremony marked the beginning of an intensive training programme designed to equip local teachers with the skills and knowledge to teach Chinese effectively, further solidifying Ghana’s educational and diplomatic relations with China.