The grand opening ceremony of the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML) at Tzu Chi Academy, Miami was held on May 20th, attended by General Director Charles Chou of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Miami, and Senior Secretary Maria Liu of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC). The event marked a significant milestone in promoting Mandarin learning and cultural exchange.
Director Chou expressed his deep honor in attending the event and emphasized the importance of cultural preservation through the opening ceremony. Notably, May 20th also marked the seventh anniversary of the Taiwan President's inauguration, underscoring the government's commitment to language education and youth development abroad. Director Chou expressed gratitude to Tzu Chi Academy for their exceptional dedication to teaching Mandarin and instilling core values such as gratitude, respect, and compassion through their character education program. He also paid tribute to the hardworking principal, teachers, and students present at the ceremony.
The ceremony commenced with a captivating Taiko drum performance by the faculty and a vibrant lion dance, setting a festive atmosphere. Director Chou emphasized that learning extends beyond language acquisition—it encompasses embracing a rich cultural heritage. The establishment of the TCML at Tzu Chi Academy Miami plays a vital role in promoting both aspects. Director Chou reaffirmed Taiwan's commitment to providing the best Mandarin learning environment. He warmly invited attendees to visit Taiwan and experience its renowned hospitality while further enhancing their Mandarin language skills.
Principal Chang also delivered a speech during the ceremony, highlighting the academy's exceptional teaching faculty and diverse curriculum. She emphasized the significance of learning traditional Chinese characters, as they offer deeper insights into their origins and meanings. In addition to language instruction, Principal Chang highlighted the integration of rich cultural content, including discussions on Chinese New Year, paper-cutting, tea ceremonies, geography, customs, and traditions. She extended a warm invitation to attendees to join their classes and immerse themselves in the unique Chinese culture with Taiwanese characteristics.
Director Chou, Principal Chang, and the teachers demonstrated their dedication to promoting language education and cultural exchange, with the aim of fostering a diverse and harmonious society. The event was further elevated by the rendition of popular Mandarin songs, "Dui Bu Qi, My Chinese is Not So Good" by the band ‘Transition’ and Teresa Teng’s "The Moon Represents My Heart," performed by the talented TCML students, showcasing their remarkable progress and proficiency in Mandarin.
The establishment of the TCML at Tzu Chi Academy, Miami is part of the OCAC’s ongoing efforts to promote the overseas Mandarin learning market, with a specific emphasis on Europe and the Americas. The TCML at Tzu Chi Academy, Miami becomes the fourth center in Florida and the 54th center in the United States, further expanding access to exceptional Mandarin language services for individuals aged 18 and older in South Florida who are eager to learn Mandarin.
Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed refreshments and engaged in meaningful conversations, further fostering connections. Director Chou expresses sincere appreciation to Tzu Chi Academy, Miami, for their warm hospitality. TECO hopes that the establishment of the TCML will strengthen cultural ties and ignite a passion among individuals to explore the richness of Taiwan's language and culture.
The next semester at the TCML at Tzu Chi Academy, Miami will commence on August 26th. For more information and course registration, interested individuals can contact the academy via email at academy_miami@tzuchi.us.
