GABORONE, June 6 (Xinhua) -- The final of the "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for primary school students in Botswana was held Friday in the capital, Gaborone.

Organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana (CIUB) and hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Botswana, the event showcased local people's growing interest in learning the Chinese language and culture and highlighted the deepening cultural and educational ties between the two countries.

The competition featured three segments, namely a written test, a speech, and a talent show. Ten students from five local primary schools demonstrated their skills in poetry, singing, dancing, martial arts, and traditional Chinese paper-cutting.

Eleven-year-old Nomsa Kelepile, who began learning Chinese at the CIUB in March this year, emerged as this year's champion. Delighted by her achievement, she said she looks forward to representing Botswana in the global finals to be held in China.

"Children are the future, and language is the bridge (that) connects people," said Cui Yin, counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Botswana. "Botswana's bright young minds will brighten the future of Botswana and bridge our two countries and peoples."

As this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties between China and Botswana, Cui said that such educational exchanges will continue to deepen bilateral cooperation.

Pansy Mphinyane, a representative from the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, emphasized the broader impact of cultural exchange, noting that learning Chinese at a young age lays a foundation for lasting friendship and mutual understanding among children from both countries. ■