Chinese New Year Celebrations at Sabaragamuwa University

A colourful cultural performance was held recently at Sabaragamuwa University to mark the Chinese New Year. The event was organised by the Confucius Classroom of Subaragamuwa University graced by Mr. Zhang Yingbao, Cultural Counsellor and Ms. Li Qingrui, First Secretary of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Sri Lanka.

The performances were choreographed by the teachers and students of the Confucius Classroom which is the Chinese language learning center at the university jointly operated by Sri Lanka and China. The students performed traditional and modern dances, songs and Taiji combined with Sri Lankan elements of dance which captured the audience attention.

At the opening remarks, Prof. Udaya Rathnayake, Vice Chancellor of Sabaragamuwa University wished the Chinese diplomats on their traditional new year and recalled the fruitful discussions on the construction of Confucius Classroom for China - Sri Lanka educational exchange and cooperation. Professor Rathnayake, praised the positive contribution the Confucius Classroom has made in the teaching of Chinese language at the university.

Counsellor Zhang Yingbao said that China - Sri Lanka friendship has a long history and hoped that the Confucius Classroom would serve as a bridge to strengthen cultural communication and cooperation. Cultural Counsellor Zhang Yingbao commended the cultural event. He also handed over books and stationery to the students, encouraging them to learn Chinese and look for opportunities to study in China.

The Chinese Director of Confucius Classroom, Zhu Song, expressed her gratitude to Cultural Counsellor Zhang Yingbao, First Secretary Li Qingrui, Vice Chancellor Udaya Rathnayake and all the teachers, students and friends who attended the event.

More than 200 people, including heads of faculties and departments, teachers and students attended the celebration.