Education

Taiwan's Foreign Students Face Off in Mandarin Speech Competition

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By Hank Hsu/Chris Gorin

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Foreign students studying Mandarin in Taiwan have the chance to show of their skills in a Mandarin speech competition. That's as fewer students choose to go to China for language study.

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Taiwan is becoming a major destination for foreign students seeking to master Mandarin. The country’s annual speech competition in Taipei, where students from 17 countries showcase their skills, highlights this growing trend. The competition, fierce yet friendly, allows learners to test their language proficiency through humor, wit and even song, with the chance to win up to US$600. As Mandarin's global appeal increases, many students are choosing Taiwan over China for their studies. 

The reasons behind students’ decision to learn Mandarin can vary. Some, like Jake from the U.K., see language acquisition as essential for adapting to life in Taiwan, while others, like Vipul from India, are doing it for work.  

Despite Taiwan’s small size, its appeal is growing, with over 36,000 foreign students coming to learn Mandarin last year. By contrast, China has seen a significant drop in foreign students since the COVID-19 pandemic, especially among countries such as the United States. Teachers in Taiwan attribute this shift to the country’s more relaxed atmosphere and convenient lifestyle. As Taiwan cements its position as a premier language destination, learners continue to seek not only linguistic mastery but also the chance to experience a vibrant and open society.