Nepali Chinese teacher Sushila: Bridging cultures through vivid teaching

In 2008, Sushila embarked on her Chinese learning journey, eventually earning a master's degree in International Education of Chinese in Beijing. With over a decade devoted to teaching, her students range from youngsters to those in their sixties.

Sushila's teaching experiences are diverse. She once tutored Chinese border defense personnel in Nepali at the Zhangmu Port to help them communicate with the local people. She has also instructed many Nepalis who want to do business or study in China, offering short-term intense courses to help them pass the Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK).

Currently, Sushila teaches at the Confucius Institute at Kathmandu University, offering elective Chinese courses for middle and high school students.

In her free time, Sushila wears another hat as a stage actress, incorporating her theatrical experience to guide students in bold and relaxed self-expression. She took students to vibrant places for public speech, observing and offering guidance on language, posture, facial expressions, and so on.

The efforts lead to her students' achievements. At the 22nd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign Students in Nepal, one of Sushila's students secured the second prize, while another earned a "Chinese Bridge" scholarship, fulfilling her and her family's dream of going to study in China.

In November, Sushila translated some Nepali and Chinese songs, teaching pronunciation to famous Nepali singer Subani Moktan. The singer later appeared on CCTV's program "The Beauty of Shared Arts," contributing to Sino-Nepalese friendship.

"In my students' eyes, I always make learning funny. We sing, dance, create stories, and celebrate Chinese festivals. Learning a language is about practicing and finding joy in the process," said Sushila.

"There's no universal teaching standard. What matters is that students benefit from what they learn and apply it in daily life," she emphasized.

Sushila is pleased to see children who have not been learning Chinese for a long time but can confidently speak the language when shopping in Chinese stores. "I hope everyone discovers what they love, using their interests, knowledge, and skills to explore the world," she concluded with a warm smile.

Writing and translating by Guo Yao. Photo provided by the interviewee.