Liberia: University of Liberia to offer Bachelor’s Degree in Chinese Language, Culture

The University of Liberia has announced plans to begin offering a Bachelor’s degree program in Chinese Language and Culture, signaling a significant step towards preparing students for an increasingly interconnected world.

The decision by the University, which runs an elective program in Chinese language and Culture, comes at a time when China's global influence continues to grow as a result of its rapid economic growth, and technological advancements.

The comprehensive curriculum of the program is designed to cover both linguistic and cultural aspects of China.  Students enrolled in the program will undergo rigorous training in Mandarin, the official language of China — which will enable them to  become effective Chinese speakers on an international scale. 

Dexter  Sumo, the University’s Director of Confucius Institute, noted that the move is intended to provide Liberians with an education that transcends boundaries.

Sumo, who is a fluent Chinese speaker, added the decision not only reflects the University’s commitment to “global education”, but also deepens the relationship between Liberia and China.

“The establishment of a Bachelor’s degree in Chinese Language and Culture is a testament to the forward-thinking approach of the University of Liberia,” Sumo is also an Assistant Professor at the University. 

“The initiative will undoubtedly contribute to nurturing a generation of professionals who can actively engage with China in various sectors, from diplomacy to business and beyond,” he added.

The program, which is expected to be one of the newest courses added to the Amos Sawyer College of Social Sciences and Humanities, comes at a time when Liberia's relationship with China is growing stronger. 

The two countries have enjoyed diplomatic relations for over a decade, and this academic venture is expected to further strengthen the bonds. The degree program is however expected to bridge the cultural and language gap that has long existed between Liberia and China.

The Chinese Confucius Institute at the University of Liberia, which is responsible for the design and teaching of curriculum for new degree programs, was established in 2008 with the help of   Changsha University of Science and Technology.

Since then more than 150 Liberians have graduated from the Institute with certificates, diplomas, and even studying Mandarin as a minor course.

In a related development, the University has for the first time launched a Master of Science Degree Program in Procurement Management.

The launch of the Program is expected to enhance the capacity of the civil service, and solve most of the public financial management challenges in Liberia.