Burundi Students Prepare for Academic Journey in China with Pre-Departure Training

In a significant step toward fostering international education and cultural exchange, 30 Burundian scholarship recipients are set to embark on an academic journey to China, thanks to a comprehensive pre-departure orientation program organized by the Confucius Institute and funded by the Chinese Embassy in Burundi.

Building Bridges Through Education

The two-day workshop, held on August 18–19, 2025, in Bujumbura, aimed to equip these bright young minds with the essential tools—linguistic, cultural, and practical—to thrive during their studies abroad. The initiative underscores the deepening ties between Burundi and China, two nations with rich historical legacies and a shared commitment to education and mutual growth.

As one participant noted, “Understanding a new culture is just as important as mastering the coursework. This training has been an eye-opener in more ways than one.”

A Collaborative Effort

The event was hosted under the patronage of the Chinese Embassy in Burundi and organized in close partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of Burundi. Key figures in attendance included Barthélémy Cimpaye, Director of the Scholarships and Internships Office at Burundi’s Ministry of National Education and Scientific Research, and Fang Guoqing, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy.

Their presence highlighted the importance both governments place on educational collaboration and cross-cultural dialogue. “This is more than a scholarship program—it’s a bridge between two peoples,” remarked Mr. Cimpaye during his address to the students.

What the Training Covered

Over the course of two days, participants engaged in a variety of sessions designed to demystify life in China. Key focus areas included:

• Basic Chinese Language Skills: An introduction to Mandarin to help students navigate daily interactions.
• Cultural Awareness: Insights into China’s millennia-old traditions, social norms, and values.
• Practical Guidance: Advice on accommodation, transportation, health, and academic life in China.

Perhaps one of the most valuable segments involved interactions with alumni of the scholarship program. Former students shared firsthand experiences, answered questions, and offered tips on how to make the most of the opportunity.

Ancient Civilizations, Shared Values

One of the most compelling aspects of the orientation was its emphasis on the cultural and philosophical parallels between Burundi and China. Both nations boast ancient civilizations with deep-rooted traditions that have been carefully preserved and passed down through generations.

Burundi, known locally as Ingoma y’Uburundi, is home to a unique dyarchic system historically centered around the sacred drum Karyenda—symbolized by the Mukakaryenda or “Drum Woman”—and the Mwami (king). The Burundian people adhere to Ubungoma, a cosmological worldview that emphasizes harmony, rhythm, and communal values, much like the beat of a drum unifies a performance.

China, on the other hand, is often symbolized by the dragon—a creature representing power, wisdom, and good fortune. Its philosophical heritage, deeply influenced by Taoism and Buddhism, revolves around concepts like balance, duality, and the interplay of yin and yang.

By drawing these parallels, the training encouraged students to see their journey not just as an academic pursuit, but as a meeting of two great civilizations. “We are not just students—we are cultural ambassadors,” one attendee reflected.

Why This Matters

In an increasingly multipolar world, initiatives like this pre-departure training play a crucial role in promoting soft diplomacy and people-to-people connections. For the students, the program is more than a preparatory course—it’s a foundation for success, reducing culture shock and fostering a sense of confidence as they step into a new chapter of their lives.

Moreover, such exchanges contribute to the broader goals of South-South cooperation, enabling developing nations to share knowledge, build capacity, and strengthen bilateral relations.

Looking Ahead

The 30 scholarship recipients are set to depart for China in the coming weeks, where they will enroll in various undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines including engineering, medicine, economics, and the humanities.

Their journey is being closely followed by educational stakeholders in both countries, who see this as a model for future collaborations. As Counselor Fang Guoqing noted, “Education is the cornerstone of lasting friendship. These students are the future leaders who will carry forward the spirit of Burundi-China cooperation.”

Conclusion

The pre-departure training organized by the Confucius Institute and supported by the Chinese Embassy marks a significant milestone in Burundi-China relations. By investing in the next generation of leaders, both nations are not only enhancing educational outcomes but also building a lasting bridge of understanding and respect.

As these 30 students prepare to spread their wings, they carry with them the hopes of their communities and the promise of a brighter, more interconnected future.

Image Credit: Confucius Institute at the University of Burundi

Source: Burundi AGNews