From RUDN to Beijing: How Moscow Stage of Chinese Bridge Competition Unfolds

Poetry and vocal performances

During these days, the main building of RUDN resounded with the Chinese language: participants demonstrated not only impeccable pronunciation but also sheer artistry, ranging from recitations of classical poetry to vocal performances. Among the honored guests were representatives from the leadership of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Russian Federation.

The “Chinese Bridge” Competition is a ticket to Beijing: the strongest participants of this stage will form the national team that will represent Russia at the global finals.

RUDN University traditionally serves as one of the key centers for Oriental languages studies in Russia. Today, RUDN implements over 90 agreements with Chinese universities, including 18 double-degree programs; students undergo internships in the largest educational centers of China — Shanghai, Beijing, Wuhan and Xi’an. One of the largest Chinese student communities in the country creates a rich language environment at RUDN and opens up opportunities for intercultural communication.

The partners and organizers of the Moscow stage of the competition were international and educational organizations that actively develop cooperation in the field of learning Chinese language and culture. Among them are the China Intercontinental Communication Center (CICC) and the Educational and Methodological Center for the Chinese Language Autonomous Non-profit Organization for Continuing Education “ChiLanC.”

The responsible organizer was the Education Department of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Russian Federation. Organizational support was also provided by the online Chinese language school “Media+” and the Huaming Chinese Language Study and Testing Center.

A step towards future career

Competition participants note that the “Chinese Bridge” is not only a contest but also an important step towards their future career.

“I am participating for the second time. For me, it is an opportunity to make myself known and assess how much I have progressed in learning the language. Chinese is my investment in the future: I dream of becoming a designer and, perhaps, I’ll launch my projects precisely in the Celestial Empire,” said Sofia Lukyanenko, a student of grade 4 “E” at the Kurchatov School.

Natalia Chesnokova, Vice-rector for Admission at RUDN University, emphasized the importance of the competition for helping schoolchildren find their career paths.

“The ’Chinese Bridge’ Competition is not just a test of knowledge; it is a real social elevator for talented schoolchildren. The winners will get a unique chance to represent Russia at the global finals in Beijing, and we are proud that this journey begins within the walls of RUDN. Our university creates all the conditions for studying Oriental languages and deeply immerses students in Chinese culture. I’m sure that for many participants, today’s event will be the first step not only towards winning the competition but also towards a successful professional career in an international environment,” said Natalia Chesnokova.

Another competition participant, Evgeniy Belonogov, also shared his motivation. “I really want to get to the global finals in China, so I am trying to show my best. At RUDN you can feel the sheer scale, and this really inspires me. I realize that my dream of teaching music in China is quite feasible if I persistently study the language and pursue my goal,” said Evgeniy Belonogov.

Holding the Moscow stage of the competition at RUDN underscores the university’s role as an international educational platform, where language becomes a tool for professional growth, and culture serves as the foundation for dialogue and cooperation.