This agreement paves the way for a Chinese teacher to join the faculty of the prestigious Lycée d’Excellence Alassane Ouattara high school in Grand-Bassam.
The MoU was signed by Minister Mariatou Kone and Chinese Ambassador Wu Jie at the Ministry’s office in Abidjan. Minister Kone hailed the agreement as a significant step forward in cultural and educational exchange between the two nations. She highlighted China’s renowned educational expertise and expressed confidence that the new teacher will not only impart language skills but also enrich the students’ educational experience with insights into Chinese culture.
“This initiative strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and China,” stated Minister Kone. “It fosters intercultural dialogue, a crucial element in preparing our youth to be well-rounded global citizens.”
Ambassador Wu Jie echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the MoU’s role in expanding Sino-Ivorian educational cooperation. He explained that the placement of a Chinese language teacher aligns with China’s goal of promoting full-time Mandarin instruction within Ivorian schools.
The Ambassador further emphasized the strong and multifaceted partnership between Côte d’Ivoire and China, citing achievements in various sectors such as economics, social development, education, healthcare, and culture. He pointed to the Chinese government’s significant contributions in the education sector, including the construction of 32 primary and secondary schools across Côte d’Ivoire, benefitting over 5,000 students. Additionally, China funded the construction of the Alassane Ouattara High School in Grand-Bassam and the renovation of the Lycée Moderne Alassane Ouattara in Anyama.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Wu Jie highlighted the upcoming China-Africa Cooperation Forum scheduled for September in Beijing. He described the summit as a platform for African and Chinese leaders to chart a promising future for their collaborative endeavors, fostering an even stronger “community with a shared future.”
Ambassador Wu Jie concluded by extending an invitation to Minister Kone for the celebration of Chinese Language Day on April 26th at the Lycée Moderne Alassane Ouattara in Anyama.
AP/fss/abj/APA