Source: CCTV.com

11-15-2006 09:19

China and Vietnam share not only a border, they've had a relationship of mutual affection for most of the past century. And recently more and more Vietnamese have taken interest in Chinese language. As far as this trend is concerned, cultural proximity plays as much a role as pragmatism.

At Hanoi University, the Chinese Department is overflowing. Ten classes are in session simultaneously. Add those making Chinese their second major, plus participants in the adult education program, the number reaches nearly 2,000 students, at this school alone. The motives for learning Chinese vary from person to person.

A student said:"It's much easier for graduates with Chinese language skills to find a job, especially at a time when China's economy is booming."

Some students in the Chinese Department have found part-time jobs related to their major. And almost everyone in the program gets snatched up by the job market, well before graduation.

Noting the Chinese fever in America and many parts of Europe, it might seem surprising the language is just catching on in neighboring Vietnam. But given the two countries' shared history and culture, the trend, once started, is very likely to stay on.

 

Editor:Lu Yuying