New Horizons Nigeria, a leading ICT training and solutions provider, has introduced the Chinese Mandarin language into its ICT curriculum as an elective, becoming the first institution in Nigeria to take this step. The initiative is aimed at equipping Nigerian students with skills that match the realities of a fast changing global economy, especially as China continues to play a dominant role in global production, trade and technology.
Speaking on the initiative, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of New Horizons Systems Solutions Limited, Mr Tim Akano, said the programme goes beyond learning a new language. He explained that global labour and economic power is gradually shifting towards China, and language will soon become a major advantage in technology and business spaces. According to him, Nigerian technology experts who can speak Mandarin will be better positioned to work with Chinese companies operating both locally and internationally.
As part of the programme, New Horizons Nigeria has launched a Mandarin Scholarship with China Advancement Opportunity, selecting 100 outstanding students from five secondary schools for an intensive three month online Mandarin training. At the end of the programme, 20 top performing students will be selected strictly on merit to receive an additional scholarship valued at 2,500 dollars each for a one year pre degree Mandarin and cultural immersion programme in China. From this group, the best candidates will gain fully funded admission into top universities in China, building both language skills and global exposure.
The programme also sets strict standards for participating schools, including strong attendance, early class participation, stable internet access and a conducive learning environment. While the pilot phase involves selected secondary schools, the Mandarin course will be available as an elective ICT programme at all New Horizons centres nationwide, with executive classes also open to international business people. The initiative will be capped with a Mandarin Cultural Fiesta to celebrate excellence, cultural exchange and stronger educational ties between Nigeria and China.