Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) held the opening ceremony of its Dhivehi language program on Sept 7. It was the first university in China to open such a program.

Representatives from the university, the international exchange and cooperation office and the School of Asian Studies attended the event, which was presided over by Zhu Fangfang, a Dhivehi language lecturer.

BFSU holds the opening ceremony of the first Dhivehi language program in China on Sept 7.

Zhao Gang, member of the standing committee of the CPC BFSU committee and vice-president of the university, addressed the opening ceremony. Zhao said that BFSU values the construction of the major and has sent excellent teachers to Maldives to study Dhivehi language. With the help of the Embassy of Maldives in China and the joint efforts on both sides, the program was successfully opened.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of BFSU and the 60th anniversary of the School of Asian and African Studies. The opening of the program is a fitting tribute to the times.  

“As the only official language of Maldives, Dhivehi carries the time-honored history and unique culture of the country. The establishment of such a program will enhance younger generation’s understanding of Maldivian civilization and boost educational and cultural exchanges between China and Maldives,” said Zhao. 

Sobah Rasheed, deputy ambassador of the Embassy of the Republic of Maldives in China, delivered a speech, in which he extended sincere greetings in Dhivehi to the attendees of the opening ceremony. Rasheed noted that BFSU was the first university outside Maldives to teach Dhivehi, and BFSU’s program proves the long-lasting relationship between Maldives and China, and can help further propel contacts and exchanges between the two countries.

China and Maldives established official diplomatic ties in 1972. Over the past half century, both sides have striven to promote friendship and enhance cooperation.

As the first university in China to teach Dhivehi language, BFSU will provide strong faculty support, engage in subject construction, and contribute to deepening exchanges between the two countries.