THE CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE AT NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA: CHALLENGES, PROSPECTS, AND THE PROMOTION OF CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

It is evident that several factors can influence the teaching and learning of a language within any linguistic establishment. This paper focuses on the challenges Nigeria currently faces regarding the effective teaching and accessible learning of the Chinese language at the Confucius Institute, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State. The research employed a descriptive survey design and utilized questionnaires and interviews for data collection. During the second semester of the 2023/2024 academic session, the researcher designed, distributed, and retrieved questionnaires, and conducted interviews. The data obtained from both instruments were analyzed and revealed several challenges, including a shortage of native Chinese teachers, irregular electricity supply, and the absence of an informative online presence. The study also found that learning the Chinese language is of great importance to Nigeria’s economic development, particularly in the international arena, and that there is growing interest among students in learning the language. The paper concludes with recommendations such as recruiting and training more teachers, developing a learning website, and exploring alternative energy sources.