STORY: Chinese language teaching builds cultural bridge between Türkiye, China: Turkish educator
SHOOTING TIME: Dec. 12, 2024
DATELINE: Dec. 13, 2024
LENGTH: 00:03:21
LOCATION: Ankara
CATEGORY: CULTURE 

SHOTLIST:
1. various of city views of central Türkiye's Kayseri city (Courtesy of Ihlas news agency)
2. various of Mount Erciyes (Courtesy of Ihlas news agency)
3. various of Erciyes University (Courtesy of Erciyes University)
4. various of the Chinese Language and Literature Department of Erciyes University
5. SOUNDBITE 1 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University
6. various of Erciyes University (Courtesy of Erciyes University)
7. SOUNDBITE 2 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University
8. various of Erciyes University (Courtesy of Erciyes University)
9. SOUNDBITE 3 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University
10. various of Erciyes University (Courtesy of Erciyes University)
11. SOUNDBITE 4 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University       

STORYLINE:

The Chinese language department at Türkiye's Erciyes University serves as "a cultural bridge" for enhancing understanding between Türkiye and China, a Turkish educator has said.

"The Chinese Language and Literature Department at our university is not just an academic program. It is a cultural bridge, a tool for understanding," Cevdet Kirpik, vice rector of Erciyes University, said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

Erciyes University is one of the top ten universities in Türkiye to be designated as a research university.

In 1998, the university established the Department of Chinese Language and Literature, with the aim of cultivating graduates who would help enhance the understanding between Chinese and Turkish communities.

After more than two decades, Erciyes University has become a central hub for Chinese language education in Türkiye, boasting over 200 undergraduate students. Its alumni are now making their mark in numerous industries throughout Türkiye.

SOUNDBITE 1 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University
"We placed significant importance on the presence of the Chinese Language and Literature Department at our university. Its existence fostered a strong bond between two nations, two cultures, and two states. Language, as we know, is a tool that connects nations, opens doors to nations, and opens doors to cultures." 

According to Kirpik, the benefits of learning Chinese for Turkish students are multifaceted.

SOUNDBITE 2 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University
"On a personal level, it enriches one's knowledge and broadens horizons. Professionally, as the trade potential between Türkiye and China continues to grow, proficiency in Chinese enhances the employability of our graduates."

On the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Turkish educator said, the trade network "facilitated not only commerce but also the exchange of culture, art and literature."

SOUNDBITE 3 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University
"I believe that this initiative (BRI) will develop the economic, infrastructure, and trade potential of the countries along this route. Over time, we expect this initiative to serve as a boon for all parties involved." 

Referring to Türkiye and China as homes to ancient civilizations with rich cultural traditions, Kirpik believes that both countries can draw the lessons and values from these civilizations to address contemporary global challenges.

SOUNDBITE 4 (Turkish): CEVDET KIRPIK, Vice rector of Erciyes University
"As far as I know, Confucius and other prominent philosophers, who laid the foundations of Chinese thought, attached great importance to peace, unity, and solidarity. They have very important views that can contribute to humanity living in peace. Both countries (Türkiye and China) can draw on their rich histories to contribute to global peace and stability. In order to overcome global crises, we have to act with an understanding that considers the well-being of humanity. I think there is potential in both countries." 

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Ankara.
(XHTV)