Confucius Institute in Dhaka: Where you can learn language, dragon dance and more

When Yang Hui first arrived in Dhaka in 2022, he struggled to breathe. The noise, the chaos, and the waste pollution overwhelmed him. Coming from Kunming—a clean, moderately populated city where honking is rare—Dhaka felt impossible to endure.

But three years later, the city has grown on him. Today, Yang Hui calls Dhaka his own. The Chinese restaurants, markets filled with Chinese products, and the small community of Chinese expatriates have given him a sense of belonging. "Dhaka no longer feels foreign," he said with a smile. "It feels like my new home." 

Bridge between cultures

Yang Hui is the director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Dhaka. The Institute was established in 2016 as a joint initiative between Dhaka University and Yunnan University. Hui himself studied at Yunnan University, where he completed his PhD in International Relations, focusing on African Studies. His research took him to South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria—regions he found remarkably similar to South Asia in their post-colonial structures.

Chinese is incredibly interesting. Each character is like a miniature picture, and when written together, they form a visual story. The tones are like musical notes—five in total—rising, falling, and flowing like waves. Once you master them, the language feels natural.

SADIA, STUDENT, CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURE, DU

"Both Africa and South Asia were European colonies," he explained. "That colonial influence still shapes their politics and education systems."

When asked what qualities are essential to work in an institution like the Confucius Institute, Hui replied, "Global knowledge, administrative skills, respect for different cultures, and strong social skills are crucial. And, of course, an understanding of China's foreign policy is necessary."

Learning flows both ways

The Confucius Institute operates much like the British Council, Alliance Française, or Goethe-Institut. Since the first Confucius Institute was established in Seoul in 2004, more than 1,200 institutes and classrooms have opened worldwide.

In Bangladesh, there are two such institutions—one at the University of Dhaka and another at North South University, along with a Confucius Classroom at Shanto-Mariam University. Their primary focus is on Chinese language instruction, but the curriculum also includes practical training in business communication, culture, and everyday conversation.

The Dhaka University branch employs 12 Chinese teachers and one Bangladeshi instructor, apart from the director. The Bangladeshi teachers also conduct Bengali lessons for Chinese entrepreneurs and professionals working in Bangladesh.

Beyond language, students immerse themselves in Chinese culture through courses on calligraphy, martial arts, tea culture, painting, paper cutting, and the intricate Hanzi writing system. Every year, the Institute celebrates the Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival with fan dances, lion and dragon dances, and traditional plays. Students even get to wear Hanfu, the traditional Chinese attire.

Admission and course structure

"There is no selection process or age barrier," Hui explained. "Anyone can enrol by paying the fixed fee. We only advise students on which level suits them best."

The course fee is Tk3,500 for Dhaka University students and Tk5,000 for others. The full programme spans four semesters—from HSK-1 to HSK-4—but students may join at any level. Each course runs for four months and concludes with a final examination. Successful candidates receive certificates upon completion.

According to teacher Nilu Akter, around 7,000 students have become proficient in Chinese since the Institute's establishment. Currently, about 600 students are enrolled.

"After completing HSK-4, students can communicate almost like native speakers," Hui noted.

Language and opportunity

Why are so many Bangladeshis eager to learn Chinese? Hui believes the answer lies in global trends. "Many students want to study in China," she said. "But beyond that, Chinese is the language of the future. China is emerging as a superpower, and its Belt and Road Initiative connects over 150 countries. This will create countless job opportunities."

One such student is Sadia Khan, who received a scholarship to study at Sichuan University through the Institute's recommendation. She is also pursuing a degree in Chinese Language and Culture at Dhaka University.

Sadia's journey to the language was unexpected. After studying in the Commerce stream in school, she was admitted to the Chinese Language Department instead of Commerce at university. "At first, I was disappointed," she admitted. "But once I started learning Chinese, I was fascinated."

By her fourth year, she had completed HSK-4 and achieved fluency.

Photo: Asma Sultana Prova

"The language is like music"

When asked what makes the language so appealing, Sadia said, "Chinese is incredibly interesting. Each character is like a miniature picture, and when written together, they form a visual story. The tones are like musical notes—five in total—rising, falling, and flowing like waves. Once you master them, the language feels natural."

She also fell in love with China itself. "I was worried about the food before going," she laughed. "But I loved it once I got there. The flavours vary by province—saltier in some, spicier in others. Sichuan's chili is famous, and I loved the dishes made with it."

Sadia found Chinese people warm and curious. "They are a lot like us. When they see foreigners, especially older people, they come up and talk. They are always surprised when I speak fluent Chinese. They ask about my family—it feels like home."

Interpreting a new future

Working as an interpreter, Sadia said, not only helps her practise the language but also brings financial rewards. She has worked at several international events, including an international trade conference at Hotel InterContinental and multiple programmes at the Bashundhara International Convention City (ICCB).

Once, when a tragic plane crash occurred at Milestone School and College, a Chinese medical team came to assist the victims. Sadia was invited to work as their interpreter, but family commitments forced her to decline. "It broke my heart to miss that opportunity to help," she lamented.

The teacher who chose Bangladesh

Sadia's teacher, Zhao Xiangyan, is another Yunnan University graduate who came to Bangladesh in 2022. Her research focused on "Teaching Methods of the Chinese Language," and she previously taught at Confucius Institutes in Uganda and Thailand.

"I love teaching Bangladeshi students," she said enthusiastically. "They are attentive, passionate, and full of energy."

Zhao has travelled to Cox's Bazar and Old Dhaka. "I love the biriyani at Sultan's Dine!" she laughed.

When asked which country she would choose between Switzerland, the United States, and Bangladesh, Zhao replies without hesitation: "Bangladesh. There are more opportunities to teach here, and I love teaching."

Regarding the growing presence of Chinese products, food, and cosmetics in Bangladesh, Zhao said, "I like it. We also have Bangladeshi products in China—mangoes, sarees, and handmade crafts. Our relationship is strong, and I believe it will only grow stronger."

Dhaka's mini China

Nestled on the sixth floor of the Arts Building at Dhaka University, the Confucius Institute may not occupy much space, but it is alive with colour. Chinese lanterns, dragons, lion figurines, lucky cats, and elegant calligraphy line the walls, transforming it into a miniature China—a little piece of the Far East in the heart of Dhaka.

For many students, it is more than a classroom. It is a gateway to a new language, a new culture, and a bridge between two nations whose ties are growing stronger day by day.

This article was originally written and published in Bangla, and has been translated by Anonno Afroz.