Guang Ming College and School Community Chinese & Enrichment Classes Bring Warmth, Hope, and the Spirit of the Three Acts of Goodness

By BLIA News | Manila, Philippines

Guided by Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision of "cultivating talent through education," Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple and Guang Ming College launched a series of educational outreach programs throughout July. Three students from Fo Guang University in Taiwan—Wang Wei-Ling, Luo Wei-Ru, and Yeh Chih-Keng—served as volunteer instructors, offering Chinese language classes for faculty and staff, enrichment classes for Guang Ming College's affiliated elementary and high school students, and community arts programs for children living near Mabuhay Temple. The initiatives introduced the values of the Three Acts of Goodness alongside Chinese language and culture, receiving an enthusiastic response from participants.

The Chinese language class for faculty and staff officially began on July 5. Participants came with varying levels of Chinese proficiency: while a few were able to engage in basic conversation, most were complete beginners. The first lesson focused on introducing oneself in Chinese, followed by fundamental grammar, including subjects, objects, and possessive forms. Step by step, the instructors guided participants in mastering Chinese pronunciation and tones.

Throughout the class, learners eagerly took notes, practiced pronunciation repeatedly, and actively participated in discussions. Interactive games, group activities, and short quizzes created a relaxed and enjoyable learning environment that encouraged everyone to speak with confidence. As the lessons progressed from greetings to vocabulary related to clothing and campus life, participants who had initially been hesitant gradually became comfortable responding in Chinese and even conversing with one another. The instructors hope the course will enable participants to use Chinese confidently in both their daily work and personal lives while strengthening their communication skills and self-confidence.

Meanwhile, the student enrichment classes at Guang Ming Elementary and High School and the community arts classes centered on creative learning through blank puzzle art projects. As the instructors introduced the activity, the children's faces lit up with excitement and anticipation. During the creative process, they freely shared art supplies, exchanged ideas, and encouraged one another, filling the classroom with laughter and joy.

The puzzle challenge that followed encouraged teamwork, creative thinking, and problem-solving as the children worked together to complete their artwork. Through drawing, painting, and hands-on activities, they not only practiced Chinese vocabulary but also revealed remarkable artistic talent and imagination.

At the conclusion of each class, many children eagerly gathered around the instructors to ask when the next session would be held. Their enthusiasm demonstrated that the classes had already planted joyful seeds of learning and kindness in their hearts.

Guided by Fo Guang Shan's spirit of "Giving Others Confidence, Giving Others Joy, Giving Others Hope, and Giving Others Convenience," Mabuhay Temple and Guang Ming College continue to promote Humanistic Buddhism through education, language instruction, and cultural activities. By nurturing both knowledge and character, these programs bring warmth, hope, and the values of compassion to the local community while helping the next generation grow into caring and responsible global citizens.