East China Normal University hosted the innovative Chinese Character Competition at Gezhi Building. This competition, part of the 60th-anniversary activities for international students, is open to all international students on campus. The tournament featured tiered competitions (Beginner to Advanced levels) with team-based challenges in character recognition, composition, dictation, and cultural creativity. The event successfully combined academic rigor with cultural immersion, inspiring greater enthusiasm for Chinese language learning among international students.

Elementary Level Challenges

The elementary division focused on core character skills through three rounds: "Pictograph Spy" tested rapid character recognition and teamwork, "Radical Rush" challenged competitors to assemble character components under time pressure, while "Dictation Challenge" used elimination rounds to crown a writing champion through progressively difficult vocabulary.

Intermediate Level Challenges

The intermediate tier raised the difficulty with "Character Bingo", where contestants circled words on a 12×12 grid while avoiding duplicates and errors for high scores. "Character Magic" required adding strokes or radicals to transform given characters, showcasing structural versatility. The intensified "Dictation Challenge" featured advanced vocabulary and fiercer competition.

Advanced Level Challenges

The advanced competition delivered peak excitement: "Character Riddles" tested teams' speed and wisdom in solving puzzles based on form, sound, and meaning; "Word Chains" challenged vocabulary depth and quick thinking through homophone connections; finally, the crowd-favorite "Idiom Charades" combined cultural depth with entertainment as teammates acted out idioms for guessing.

Honorees Announced

Following three intense rounds, champions from each proficiency level and individual winners were crowned. During the awards ceremony, victorious teams proudly posed with certificates and prizes amid cheers and applause, capping off the lively event.

After fierce competition, the International Students Chinese Character Competition successfully concluded. Participants demonstrated solid Chinese character skills and a passion for Chinese culture. We will continue to provide international students with more platforms for exchange and showcase, helping Chinese characters maintain their vitality. We look forward to more international students falling in love with Chinese characters and mastering the language!