Students pose for a photo with UNIVEN and the Limpopo office of t he Premier representatives
A sense of anticipation filled the air on Monday, 09 February 2026 as 12 students from the Limpopo Premier’s Office took their first steps into a new linguistic and cultural journey at the University of Venda’s Green Technology Confucious Institute (GTCI). Gathered at the GTCI boardroom, students were officially welcomed during an opening session that signalled the start of a two‑week Chinese language programme, and promised an immersive experience in both language learning and cultural exchange.
Mr Ted Xiong, Manager at GTCI
Setting the tone for the programme, Mr Ted Xiong, Manager at GTCI, opened the proceedings by warmly welcoming the cohort and outlining the purpose of the gathering. He explained that the session formally marked the beginning of the students’ participation in the Chinese lan-guage classes, describing the programme as a structured learning journey aimed at equipping them with foundational language skills while deepening their appreciation of Chinese culture over the two‑week period.
Mr Thabo Dikgale
Adding broader context to the initiative, Mr Thabo Dikgale spoke about the role of the GTCI programme in advancing international engagement and cultural understanding. He noted that the initiative seeks to “promote Chinese language and culture” while supporting key provincial priorities linked to economic development, tourism and energy. Encouraging students to make the most of the opportunity, Mr Dikgale reminded them that the experience was not just about language, it is about culture, urging them to approach the programme with pride and purpose as “the start of your journey” in strengthening South Africa–China relations.
Prof Pfarelo Matshidze, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education
Delivering remarks on behalf of Prof Tawanda Runhare, the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education (FHSSE), Prof Pfarelo Matshidze, described the pro-gramme as “more than just a visit” and “the beginning of a journey” with the potential to shape students’ future. She drew attention to Chinese as “one of the most spoken languages in the world” and aligned the initiative with the faculty’s people‑centred academic mission, stressing that language remains one of the most important tools for understanding humanity and would “add value to your life” as students grow into globally minded citizens.
Mr Ndivhuwo Phathela, Director at Limpopo Department of International Relations and Cooperatio (DIRCO)
The message of support was reinforced by Mr Ndivhuwo Phathela, Director at Limpopo DIRCO, who reflected on South Africa’s close ties with China and its growing influence on the world stage. Mr Phathela spoke of the importance of early exposure to language and culture in eas-ing cultural shock and preparing students for international engagement, reminding the group that the opportunity was highly competitive and that they should consider themselves very lucky.
UNIVEN welcomes 12 students for the Chinese language class
The programme concluded on a note of appreciation, with Mr Ted Xiong extending thanks to the Department of International Relations and Partnerships for their “massive support” in mak-ing the initiative possible. He also acknowledged the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education for its collaboration, expressing confidence that the inaugural group of students would be well supported and would pave the way to encourage the next groups as the pro-gramme continues to grow.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
