Emerging Ties: The Rise of Mandarin in Saudi Schools

Mandarin Chinese has been introduced as a compulsory second language in Saudi Arabian schools, reflecting the increasing ties between Saudi Arabia and China. This initiative aims to bolster economic diversification as the kingdom nurtures its relations with new partners while preparing its youth for future global interactions. Thousands of students are already engaged in this learning process, with numerous educational advancements being made across the country.

In a notable sign of increasing ties between Saudi Arabia and China, 14-year-old Yasser al-Shaalan is among thousands of Saudi children learning Mandarin in schools. The introduction of Chinese as a compulsory second foreign language after English reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy. Shaalan stated, “I know Arabic, English, and Chinese, which is a great asset for my future,” highlighting the value of multilingualism in today’s world.

Mandarin’s presence in educational institutions expanded significantly in August 2023 when it was mandated in six of Saudi Arabia’s 13 administrative regions. Shaalan and his peers receive three Mandarin lessons weekly from Ma Shuaib, a Chinese national fluent in Arabic. The students engage in interactive learning, using electronic whiteboards for character study. Shaalan noted how the initially challenging language has become enjoyable: “At first it was difficult, but now it has become easy and fun.”

This shift in language education was inspired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s 2019 visit to China, leading to the integration of Mandarin throughout the Saudi education system. New Chinese language programs have emerged at various Saudi universities, including the opening of a Confucius Institute branch in Riyadh. This development aligns with a global trend toward learning Mandarin, despite concerns voiced in countries like Germany and the United States regarding the motives of some Confucius Institutes.

In Riyadh, Chinese language teacher Ma Shuaib describes his pedagogical approach as utilizing modern methods to simplify the learning process. Students first focus on listening and speaking before moving on to reading and writing. Although Chinese is a mandatory subject, it does not contribute to students’ overall grades, suggesting a supportive rather than punitive educational environment.

With numerous Chinese nationals working in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Riyadh, there has been an influx of trilingual signage at the airport. Saudi Arabia’s evolving relationships have extended beyond traditional allies like the United States, significantly strengthening ties with China, which has become its leading trade partner with bilateral trade exceeding $100 billion in 2023. This partnership has flourished under the Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the kingdom’s oil-dependent economy.

China’s involvement in the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape continues to grow, as evidenced by its mediation between Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023. Umer Karim, an expert in foreign policy, noted, “For Saudi Arabia, the relationship with China has become one of the most important.” With multiple investments totaling over $10 billion agreed upon at the Sino-Arab Investment Forum, the educational initiatives reflect the shifting global dynamics where China attains economic prominence.

The introduction of Chinese language lessons in Saudi schools symbolizes the deepening diplomatic and economic ties between Saudi Arabia and China. This educational initiative is part of a broader strategy to prepare Saudi youth for future opportunities in a rapidly changing global economy. As Saudi Arabia looks to diversify its economy and strengthen its strategic partnerships, language education plays a crucial role in fostering a multilingual and adaptable workforce.

Original Source: www.mykxlg.com