Wenzhou University’s 14th Chinese Classics Recitation Contest for international students was held March 25 at the College of International Education. The event celebrated participants’ Chinese language skills and their engagement with traditional Chinese culture.

Judges Luo Chui Lian, Shen Lan Qing, and Huang Yi Yao evaluated contestants across two categories: Classics Recitation and Poetry Explanation.

In the recitation category, 10 teams competed for a spot in the university finals. Highlights included Zhan Xunmei and Tan Chi’s moving performance of When I Truly Begin to Love Myself, and a multinational team’s well-synchronized delivery that drew warm applause from the audience. Other teams also delivered strong performances, demonstrating their grasp of Chinese literary works.

The Poetry Explanation segment featured five contestants who analyzed classical poems, discussing historical context, cultural meaning, and personal reflections. Their presentations offered fresh perspectives shaped by cross-cultural backgrounds.

Judges praised the contestants for their enthusiasm and language ability, offering feedback on pronunciation, expression, and stage presence. They encouraged students to continue exploring the cultural depth behind the language.

Beyond a language contest, the event served as a platform for cross-cultural exchange. It reflected the growing interest among international students in Chinese classics and added to the university’s vibrant cultural life. Winners from the preliminary round will advance to the university final.