By Jennifer Yusuf
Chinese Cultural Centre has organized the first Chorus Competition for secondary schools in Abuja as part of activates to celebrate the 70th National Day of the founding of the People’s Republic of China which coincides with Nigeria’s national day of October 1st.
The musical showpiece which had 9 secondary schools in Abuja competing was hosted by Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse, in the Bwari area council of the Federal Capital Territory.
In a speech delivered by the Director, China Cultural Centre, Mr. Li Xuda, he stated that the competition was put together to promote education and the cultural values of Nigeria and China. He noted that China and Nigeria are blessed with rich cultural heritage which should be promoted and protected at all cost.
“China and Nigeria would benefit a lot in the future by these acts we have undertaken to harness talents and promote cultural heritage through this “Jasmine flower song competition.”
Mr. Xuda, also used the occasion to reiterate the commitment of China towards the sustenance of the cordial and bilateral relationships that exist between Nigeria and China.
“Nigeria has gained a lot of benefits since the inception of diplomatic ties with China. Both countries have had shared benefits in education, social, cultural and economic development, of which Education and Culture are priority to the Chinese Cultural Centre” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman, FCT secondary Education Board, Hon. Yahaya Musa Muhammad who sent a representative said, China has done a lot to promote education in Abuja, noting that lots of students have been beneficiaries of its scholarships and awards.
“I am glad to see our students beautifully kitted and performing the ‘Jasmine flower song in Chinese language. I would give honor to the Chinese Embassy and the Cultural Centre for organizing this competition to harness the exceptional talents of our students The Education Board will continue to work hand in hand with the Chinese Cultural Centre to see that this maiden edition is not the last,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the competing schools Mr. Yusuf Barde, Vice- Principal, Government Girls Secondary school, Dutse thanked the Chinese Cultural Centre for its eagle eye in identifying “culture” as a tool of moral regeneration in our youths saying that our culture has been devalued by copying negative western cultures which are presented as popular culture to our youths.
“What China Cultural Centre has done is first of its kind by an international cultural organization and we are very grateful that our students have experienced speedy cultural orientation as it concerns Chinese and Nigerian cultures. Since the announcement of this competition earlier this year, our students have shown a lot of enthusiasm” he said.
The competition which is a first in the country, had Government Secondary School, Jabi, Abuja claiming the first prize. Awards were given to outstanding performers and consolation prizes to all participants.
