Classrooms linking worlds

Bridging cultures

While Hicks' experience centers on "dispelling doubts", the story of Burundian Sinologist Bankuwiha Etienne is about "building trust" through cultural resonance.

Etienne's journey into Sinology began at the Confucius Institute in Burundi, where he progressed from student to teacher and eventually to researcher. He is now pursuing a doctorate at Nanjing University in Jiangsu province, focusing on China-Africa relations and cross-cultural communication.

Through his studies, Etienne has noticed deep connections between traditional Chinese culture and indigenous African cultures. For instance, the Ubuntu philosophy prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa — often summarized as "I am because we are" — closely aligns with the collective mindset found in Chinese society. Its emphasis on social harmony and moral virtue also echoes core Confucian values.

"Whether in relationships between individuals or between humans and nature, Africa and China share many similarities," he said.

Leveraging this cultural affinity, Etienne explores the practical relevance of Chinese modernization for Burundi and the broader African continent. He believes that Africa, as a developing region with rich agricultural traditions, can benefit from China's experience in agricultural modernization and rural transformation.

As a scholar, Etienne is dedicated to bringing a distinctive African voice to global Sinology. "We view China through a friendly and constructive lens," he noted, adding that a new generation of African Sinologists is seeking cooperation and mutual benefit rooted in long-standing traditional ties.

He has translated these ideas into action by authoring a French-language monograph on the mission of Confucius Institutes in Africa, analyzing their role from an African perspective.

He also co-founded the Chinese translators' association in Burundi, which has grown into a network of more than 60 members across multiple African countries. The association provides crucial translation services for Chinese investment and aid projects in Burundi while also creating local employment opportunities.