Thirty students took part in the Lifetime Language Acquisition course at the China University of Political Science and Law from 20 to 29 July 2026. The course was designed and delivered by Dr Eirini Sanoudaki of Bangor University for the second consecutive year, as part of the continuing academic collaboration between the two universities.

The course introduced students to key areas of linguistics, including the development of speech sounds and grammar, the benefits of bilingualism, language learning in childhood and adulthood, and language in individuals with developmental and acquired conditions.

Students also explored the latest research from Bangor University’s Child Bilingualism Lab, shared their own linguistic and cultural experiences, and participated in interactive, hands-on activities. Open discussion and the exchange of ideas created a welcoming learning environment in which students felt comfortable asking questions and learning from one another.

One student commented:

“Our class if full of discussion and opinion exchange... that’s fantastic! I have never done this in class before.”

Another student highlighted the course’s cultural dimension:

“The class discussion enables me to understand better and encounter more diverse cultures. I enjoy your class so much!”

Reflecting on her experience, Dr Sanoudaki, Reader in Linguistics (Bilingualism) in the School of Arts and Humanities said:

“Making genuine connections with the students and seeing them enjoy and benefit from the classes was truly rewarding. I also learned a great deal from the students about China’s culture and languages, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a pleasure to make new connections and reconnect with familiar faces, including students from last year's visit and colleagues from Bangor University's China Office. Initiatives like this help strengthen our international partnerships, and I am grateful to the Bangor University Confucius Institute for organising these valuable exchanges.”

Commenting on the course, Dr Lina Davitt, Director of the Bangor University Confucius Institute, said:

“We are delighted that Dr Sanoudaki returned to the China University of Political Science and Law for a second year. Her course is an excellent example of the wider academic collaboration between our two universities and reflects the continuing success of our partnership. Through initiatives such as this, we remain committed to creating meaningful opportunities for academic and cultural exchange.”

The course was facilitated by the Bangor University Confucius Institute as part of its work to strengthen the partnership between Bangor University and the China University of Political Science and Law.