In the heart of Serbia, at the University of Novi Sad, stands the Confucius Institute, an emblem of the deep cultural and educational ties between China and Serbia. Under the leadership of Director Chen Xiu, the institute has flourished as a crucial bridge between the two nations, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
Established in 2014, the institute celebrated its ninth anniversary in May and has since played a pivotal role in the cultural landscape of Serbia. It proudly boasts having trained over 1,000 dedicated learners, whose age groups span from young children of just 5 to adults as old as 55.
The motivation behind learning Chinese varies widely among these students. For some, it’s a personal interest, while for others, it’s a glimpse into a new world of opportunities and cultural wonders. There are those who juggle their day jobs or manage households, and yet, find the time and passion to immerse themselves in Chinese studies.
For younger learners, the drive often comes from their parents, who view Chinese proficiency as an invaluable asset in today’s global landscape. They see it not just as a language, but as a key to unlocking understanding about one of the world’s most influential cultures and economies.
One such tale of discovery is of Jana Todorčeska from Karlovci Grammar School. A decade into her Chinese learning journey, she recalls how her mother’s serendipitous discovery of a beginner’s Chinese course at a city library set her on a cultural odyssey. Today, she cherishes her deep-rooted connection with Chinese culture and the bonds she has formed with its people.
Serbian middle schools offer a smorgasbord of foreign languages, including Chinese. While the intrinsic beauty of the language and culture is a draw for many, some students are also swayed by the growing professional opportunities that China offers, especially with the expansion of projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Luka Simic and Milena Karanović, who recently experienced a memorable summer camp in China, are testimony to the warmth of Sino-Serbian ties. Their tales resonate with experiences of China’s unmatched hospitality and the deep-seated camaraderie between the two nations.
Unique to the Novi Sad Confucius Institute is its pioneering focus on China’s intricate tea culture. Over the past nine years, tea art classes have become one of its distinguishing features. Chen elaborates on how tea seamlessly melds the philosophies of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Whether it’s the Confucian etiquette, the Zen essence of Buddhism, or the Taoist pursuit of a balanced life, tea embodies them all.
But the institute’s offerings don’t stop there. It also delves into diverse realms of Chinese traditions, from martial arts and music to calligraphy, painting, and traditional paper-cutting, ensuring a holistic immersion for its students into the multifaceted world of Chinese culture.
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