UCTCI Celebrates Chinese New Year 2026

The Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Town (UCT), housed within the UCT International Office, recently hosted a vibrant celebration of Chinese New Year, welcoming staff, students and external partners to the International Office on UCT’s Middle Campus.

The event marked the Year of the Horse and formed part of the launch of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, highlighting the strong cultural and academic connections between China and Africa.

The celebration began with a lively lion dance performance, symbolising prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Guests were welcomed by Prof Pengpeng Feng, Director of the Confucius Institute at UCT, who reflected on the importance of cultural exchange and collaboration between nations.

Among the distinguished speakers was Prof. Thokozani Majozi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalisation at the University of Cape Town, who emphasised the role of international partnerships in strengthening understanding and cooperation between societies.“Events such as these demonstrate how cultural exchange creates opportunities for learning, collaboration and deeper mutual understanding between Africa and China,” said Prof. Majozi.

Mr. Ren Faqiang, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Cape Town, pointed out that the Confucius Institute at UCT has become an important platform for South African youth to learn Chinese and experience Chinese culture. He expressed hope that the Institute would take the opportunity of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges to organise more cultural events and further promote friendship and mutual understanding between China and South Africa.

Prof. Danie Visser, Acting Director of the International Office, highlighted the importance of community and connection within the university’s international engagement efforts. “Celebrations like this remind us that universities are not only places of academic exchange, but also spaces where cultures meet, friendships are formed and global partnerships are strengthened,” he noted.

The programme also included a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony to mark the launch of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, followed by a series of cultural performances and artistic showcases.

The celebration concluded with a lucky draw, which brought excitement and laughter as guests gathered to see who would take home the prizes. The overall event reflected the continued commitment of the Confucius Institute and the International Office to promoting intercultural dialogue and strengthening partnerships, ensuring that UCT remains a space where cultures connect and global friendships flourish.