KABUL: Interest in learning Chinese is growing among Afghans, not only in Kabul but also increasingly in eastern provinces, particularly Nangarhar, according to a report by Xinhua News Agency on Sunday.
The report, based on interviews with students and teachers, highlights a surge in demand for Chinese language education in eastern Afghanistan.
According to Xinhua, the rising interest is driven by job opportunities, especially in the mining sector and with Chinese companies as well as access to scholarships offered by China.
The report notes that beyond economic incentives, many learners are motivated by cultural exchange and the opportunity to share Afghanistan’s heritage while gaining insight into Chinese traditions, history, and values.
However, instructors at institutions in Nangarhar pointed to challenges, including a lack of classrooms, teaching materials, and standard facilities.
Observers say the growing interest comes amid expanding Chinese investment in Afghanistan over the past four years, particularly in mining, raising the prospects for deeper, more sustained cooperation between Kabul and Beijing.
Nangarhar sees surge in students learning Chinese
