A student takes part in the 18th Chinese-Bridge Proficiency Competition for college students in Windhoek, capital of Namibia, April 23, 2019. The Confucius Institute at the University of Namibia (UNAM) Tuesday held the 18th Chinese-Bridge Proficiency Competition for college students in the capital Windhoek. (Xinhua/Wu Changwei)

WINDHOEK, April 23 (Xinhua) -- The Confucius Institute at the University of Namibia (UNAM) Tuesday held the 18th Chinese-Bridge Proficiency Competition for college students in the capital Windhoek.

The annual Chinese language and culture proficiency competition this year saw 10 students take part in the Namibia leg.

The competition was split into three categories, namely free speeches, question and answer segment as well as the talent show.

At the event, 4th-year student Hileni Eelu at UNAM's Hifekunye Pohamba Campus, situated in northern Namibia, emerged as the winner and will represent the country in the finals in China.

Speaking at the event, UNAM's Pro-Vice Chancellor Ellen Namhila, said the competition is of importance since the relationship between China and Namibia is growing in "leaps and bounds".

More and more students are learning the Chinese culture and language through the exchange program which is vital for our economic, cultural, education ties and growth, she added.

Political Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Namibia Yang Jun said language is the bridge for a win-win situation and enhancing Namibia-China relations.

"The education cooperation begins with language learning and training. It starts in the classrooms and ends in people's hearts," he added.

UNAM's Confucius Institute this year enrolled more than 700 students, setting a new record. The institute also opened four more Chinese learning centers in the city of Walvis Bay, Windhoek, and Swakopmund.