Saudi Arabia Introduces Chinese Language Classes in Schools to Foster Cultural Exchange

Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Arabia has launched Chinese-language instruction in its schools, aiming to equip young students with valuable linguistic skills and foster a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture. The initiative, introduced at the primary and middle school levels, is part of an education agreement signed between Saudi Arabia and China last year.

According to reports, 175 educators are currently teaching Mandarin across the Kingdom, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations. The Saudi Ministry of Education believes the program will improve students’ prospects for employment and higher education, particularly at prestigious Chinese universities.

Hanan Alharbi, a mother from Riyadh, expressed her support for the initiative, calling it “an important step toward promoting global culture and providing students with new and useful language skills.” She emphasized the value of having native Chinese teachers, which enhances the learning experience for Saudi students.

China’s growing influence in the global economy and its flourishing trade relations with Saudi Arabia have driven this educational collaboration. A Chinese mother from Tianjin, known as Taotao, praised the initiative as a positive development, saying, “It helps to remove barriers to effective communication between our two nations. This cultural exchange is about finding beauty in our differences and growing together.”

Alice, a teacher from China’s Guangdong province, also described the initiative as a “win-win” for both countries. “Saudi Arabia is a young, energetic country with increasing numbers of Chinese people doing business and traveling here. Teaching Chinese in schools will make communication easier and more direct for the youth of both countries,” she said. Alice also noted that Arabic is being taught in Chinese universities and secondary schools, further enhancing cultural and commercial exchanges.

The Saudi Ministry of Education has selected several schools to pilot the language program, with plans to expand it to secondary schools by 2029. This phased approach will allow for assessments of the program’s effectiveness and necessary adjustments.

Education Minister Yousef Al-Benyan highlighted the government’s commitment to the initiative, which aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and reflects the Kingdom’s substantial investment in education to prepare the next generation for global opportunities.