by Burak Akinci
NEVSEHIR, Türkiye, March 16 (Xinhua) -- At Nevsehir Haci Bektas Veli University in Türkiye's famed Cappadocia region, the Chinese Language and Literature Department is preparing to celebrate its first graduating class.
Established four years ago, the department has seen a steady increase in student applications. "The Chinese language study has been flourishing in Türkiye," said Fatma Ecem Ceylan, head of the department, adding that 10 of her students who have received scholarships are currently studying in China.
With the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, an increasing number of Chinese companies are operating in Türkiye, providing more job opportunities for the locals, Ceylan noted.
"The promising job prospects inspire more young people to learn the Chinese culture and language," she said.
Cappadocia, known for its unique volcanic terrain and hot air balloon rides, is a popular tourist destination for international travelers, including many Chinese tourists.
Given this, the department has introduced specialized Tourism and Business Chinese courses, in addition to the regular curriculum, to better prepare students for careers in tourism and trade between Türkiye and China.
According to Ceylan, students are motivated not only by language acquisition but also by a genuine interest in cultural exchange.
Emrecan Olmez, a third-year student, shared his passion for Chinese culture. Chinese movies and TV dramas that have gained popularity in Türkiye, along with "the similarities between the two cultures," drew this young man from Istanbul to move to Nevsehir for Chinese language and culture study.
"There are shared values in both cultures that emphasize family, friendship, and harmony, and I find that very appealing," Olmez said.
Berra Sen, another student, echoed her classmate's feelings, saying that language, which is more than just a tool for communication, helps connect the hearts and minds of people from different nations.
"I believe that we, as Turkish students learning Chinese, can serve as a bridge between China and Türkiye," Sen said.
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