Chinese-owned company donates R200 000 to enhance digital learning at Clairwood Secondary
Supporting education
Nontembeko Nothemba Boyce (Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature); Li Zhigong (Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Durban); Nicholas Latha (Principal of Clairwood Secondary School); Steven Cai (CEO of JINA Trade); and Lin Wu (Director of Confucius Institute at Durban University of Technology).
Image: Supplied
THE spirit of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival recently mingled with South Africa’s rich tapestry of cultures at the recent Moon Festival Gala at Suncoast. Co-hosted by the Confucius Institute at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and the South African KZN Chinese Fujian Association, the gala was a celebration of art, unity, and community spirit.
Dancing under the theme, “The Ethereal Beauty of Dance,” performers from the renowned Beijing Dance Academy transported guests on an unforgettable journey through traditional and contemporary Chinese dance.
During his address, Lin Wu, Director of the Confucius Institute, said: "By showcasing traditional dances, music and customs associated with the Moon Festival, we are not only highlighting the depth and beauty of Chinese culture but also contributing to the vibrant cultural mosaic that defines South Africa.”
He noted event showed that in a diverse country "we embrace one another’s cultures. We learn from each other, appreciate one another, and celebrate together".
The local Chinese-owned company JINA Trade made a generous gesture of social investment, announcing a donation of R200 000 to support the DUT Confucius Institute’s teaching station at Clairwood Secondary School. This contribution will facilitate the establishment of a state-of-the-art multimedia classroom, enhancing digital learning and cultural education for local students.
Steven Cai, CEO of JINA Trade, said: “Youth development is the key. We should always consider supporting the development of our local community. It is our responsibility and our privilege to invest in the future of South Africa.”
The night culminated in a special presentation of a cheque to the principal of Clairwood Secondary School, Nicholas Latha.
Present at the event were Nontembeko Nothemba Boyce, Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, and Li Zhigong, Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Durban.
Latha expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the school's governing body, staff, pupils, and parents.
“Our learners come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, so this donation will greatly help our school to bring the latest multimedia technology to our learners”, said Latha.
He also reflected on the pre-Covid-19 partnership between Clairwood Secondary School and the Confucius Institute, reaffirming their intent to rebuild and maintain this relationship in the years ahead.