The National University of Lesotho (NUL) came alive with culture and colour on Wednesday as the Kingdom celebrated United Nations Chinese Language Day with a vibrant event that showcased the growing ties between Lesotho and China.
Held at the Netherlands Hall on NUL’s Roma campus, the celebration unfolded under the theme “A Gift Across Time and Space”, drawing together dignitaries, academics, students, and members of the public to honour the rich heritage of the Chinese language.
Although UN Chinese Language Day is officially observed on April 20, in tribute to Cangjie, the mythical inventor of Chinese characters, Lesotho’s event was rescheduled due to the recent Easter holidays.
The day was made possible through collaboration between the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Lesotho, the NUL Confucius Institute of Agriculture, Science and Technology, and the Confucius Class at Machabeng College.
The event offered a compelling glimpse into the cultural connections between the two countries and the importance of mutual understanding.
In his keynote address, Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho Yang Xiaokun explained the origins of the observance.
“In 2010, the United Nations designated April 20 as Chinese Language Day, coinciding with Grain Rain, one of China’s 24 traditional solar terms,” he noted.
Reflecting on over 30 years of bilateral cooperation, Ambassador Yang praised the deepening cultural and educational ties between Lesotho and China.
“The Chinese government will continue to offer scholarships and training opportunities for Basotho youth. We look forward to your academic successes and to writing a new chapter in the exchange and mutual learning of civilisation between China and Lesotho,” he added.
Prince Seeiso Bereng Seeiso attended on behalf of the Royal Family, lending royal gravitas to the occasion.
Representing NUL, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Kananelo E. Mosito described the celebration as especially fitting during the university’s 80th anniversary.
“Language is not merely a tool for communication—it is the mirror of thought, the reservoir of memory, and a builder of peace,” he remarked.
NUL Vice-Chancellor Professor Isaac Olusola Fajana also addressed the gathering, alongside Basotho alumni who shared personal testimonies about studying in China and the transformative impact of cross-cultural learning.
The event’s festive atmosphere was enriched by a fusion of captivating performances: traditional Hulusi flute music, Tang dynasty poetry recitations, and a live performance by a Traditional Lesotho music group, creating a dynamic East-meets-South experience.
Attendees also enjoyed interactive games, prize giveaways, and a sampling of Chinese cuisine, making it a day of learning, laughter, and cultural appreciation.
More than just a celebration of one of the United Nations’ six official languages, the event stood as a powerful reminder of the unifying power of language and culture.
In a time marked by global uncertainty, the celebration at NUL underscored how cross-cultural dialogue can foster peace, understanding, and lasting friendship, right here in the Mountain Kingdom.
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