New Taipei City has the highest population of new immigrants in Taiwan. To assist immigrant families in adapting to life in Taiwan, the New Taipei City Government has offered nearly 300 free Chinese language courses over the past three years. These classes help new immigrants overcome language barriers and integrate smoothly into society. Many immigrant mothers, despite facing pressures from daily life, health issues, and parenting challenges, remain committed to learning, demonstrating admirable perseverance and passion.
Nguyễn Thị Kim Thanh, a student from Vietnam, had only completed secondary school due to financial hardships in her home country. After marrying in Taiwan, she resolved to learn Chinese and enrolled in adult education classes. Even during her post-surgery recovery, she eagerly returned to the classroom. She stated that her hard work is not only for personal growth but also to find her place in Taiwanese society.
The learning achievements of new immigrant children are equally impressive. This year, Clarissa, a Filipino student at Xiude Elementary School, won top honors in a Chinese singing competition. For two consecutive years, she has also participated in a Chinese video competition for foreign students. From not knowing Chinese to now being able to take her parents out to dine and even help classmates solve math problems, her progress has been remarkable. Her teacher, Lin Cui-lian, noted that since Clarissa’s award-winning performance of the song Childhood last year, her motivation to learn has skyrocketed. After joining the choir, her Chinese expression and singing skills have further amazed everyone.
Music teacher Ai Ching-Tzu (right) from Xiude Elementary School has guided student Ke (left) in participating in the Chinese language video competition for foreign students for two consecutive years (Photo/Source: National Education Radio website).
Phạm Đình Phú, a Vietnamese student at Fuying Junior High School, initially struggled with learning due to language barriers when he started school in Taiwan in seventh grade. He even considered returning to his home country. However, his Chinese teacher, Zeng Jiaxun, used games and practical teaching methods to engage him in activities such as shopping at the market and playing Monopoly. Gradually, he opened up and integrated into campus life. Phạm later took the initiative to participate in a Chinese video competition and won an award, marking a significant milestone in his educational journey.
Under the dedicated guidance of Chinese teacher Zeng Jia-Xun (left), student Pei (right) no longer resists learning Chinese and has made significant progress (Photo/Source: National Education Radio website).
The New Taipei City Government emphasized that the Chinese language courses not only help new immigrants and their children adapt to life in Taiwan but also allow them to gain confidence and a sense of belonging through learning. The city plans to continue providing more resources to help immigrant families establish themselves in Taiwan with peace of mind.
