Mabuhay Temple Launches Three Acts of Goodness Chinese Language Class for Children; Fo Guang University Students Inspire Young Learners

By BLIA News | Manila, Philippines

To nurture young minds and promote Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Three Acts of Goodness philosophy, Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple launched its Three Acts of Goodness Chinese Language Class for Children on July 5. This session is taught by three social work students from Fo Guang University in Taiwan—Wang Wei-Ling, Luo Wei-Ru, and Yeh Chih-Keng—with the assistance of volunteer teacher Pan Hsiu-Chiung. More than twenty children between the ages of seven and twelve enrolled, beginning an exciting journey of learning Chinese language and culture in a joyful and caring environment.

Designed around the concept of learning through play, the program introduces children to Chinese language and culture in an engaging and interactive way. The first lesson focused on self-introduction in Chinese, helping students build confidence and encouraging them to speak the language from the very beginning. Through games, interactive activities, conversations, and practical vocabulary exercises, the teaching team created a lively classroom atmosphere where children gradually transformed from being shy and hesitant to eagerly answering questions and participating in group activities. Their bright smiles and enthusiastic participation became the highlight of the classroom.

Beyond language learning, the course also emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and character development. During a blank puzzle art activity, the children expressed their dreams and favorite memories through colorful drawings, including family portraits, sports cars, and beautiful ocean scenes. Puzzle challenges and cooperative board games further encouraged communication, critical thinking, and teamwork while allowing students to learn through collaboration and play.

Volunteer teaching assistants Pan Hsiu-Chiung and Chen Chen-Chen shared that one of the most rewarding moments was watching children who were initially too shy to speak gradually become confident enough to ask questions in Chinese. Some even began teaching the volunteers Filipino words in return, creating a heartwarming two-way cultural exchange that enriched everyone involved.

Mabuhay Temple has long been committed to cultivating talent through education by offering a wide range of community learning programs, including Chinese language classes and cultural education initiatives. More than simply improving language skills, the children's Chinese class aims to instill the values of the Three Acts of Goodness—Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts—in the hearts of young learners.

As the first class came to an end, many children were reluctant to leave and eagerly asked when the next lesson would be held. Their excitement and sincere anticipation became the greatest encouragement for the volunteer teachers and a joyful reminder that the seeds of kindness, learning, and cultural understanding had already begun to take root.