Young South African learners from Gauteng and the Free State were honoured this week at an awards ceremony hosted by the Chinese Consulate General in Johannesburg, following their participation in the Driving Education Culture (DEC) Short Video Competition.
The competition, launched in May 2025, was held under the theme “The China–South Africa Learner Correspondent.” It aimed to deepen cultural understanding between the two countries and form part of South Africa’s Youth Month celebrations.
Chinese Consul General Mr PAN Qingjiang welcomed learners, parents, teachers, education officials and media to the consulate’s offices for the prize giving event, expressing his admiration for the passion and creativity displayed in the entries.
“This competition has gone beyond our expectations,” said Mr Pan. “We received nearly 140 entries involving close to 200 learners from more than 80 schools. Each video reflected colour, thoughtfulness and a desire to connect across cultures.”
Submissions explored a wide range of themes, including historical landmarks, food, traditional customs, daily life, and the similarities between South African and Chinese society. Mr Pan said the competition served as a “bridge of understanding” and helped nurture friendships between young people in both nations.
The Driving Education Culture initiative is a key youth-focused outreach programme of the Chinese Consulate in Johannesburg, created to promote people-to-people exchange and cooperation in education. The Short Video Competition was part of the consulate’s broader efforts to mark Youth Month and invest in the next generation of global citizens.
Mr Pan also thanked education departments from both Gauteng and the Free State for their support, as well as the learners’ teachers and families for encouraging participation.
“Amity between people is the foundation of strong state-to-state relations. The community support around these learners injects fresh energy into our shared future,” he said, Looking ahead, Mr Pan reaffirmed China’s commitment to youth cooperation in Africa. He referenced the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), where President Xi Jinping announced youth exchange as one of ten focus areas for deepening China-Africa partnerships.
“In today’s complex global environment, we need solidarity and cooperation more than ever,” Mr Pan added. “We are one global village, and our shared challenges require shared solutions.”
He concluded by inviting young South Africans to continue engaging with China through education and exchange opportunities.“You are all welcome to visit and study in China,” he said. “China opens its arms to the world and to you.”
The event concluded with a showcase of winning videos and presentation of awards. It was a proud moment for the young participants, whose voices and visions had helped strengthen the bond between two nations one story at a time.
