Assessment of Chinese Language Learning Infrastructure at the University of Maiduguri

The University of Maiduguri in Borno State has been a pioneer in establishing Chinese Studies programmes in the North East geopolitical zone, making it an important site for evaluating the state of Chinese language learning infrastructure in a conflict-affected region. This study assesses the physical infrastructure, instructional resources, faculty quality, and student satisfaction at the university's Chinese language learning facilities. A case study design was adopted, with data gathered through facility inspection using a structured checklist, document review of departmental records, interviews with ten faculty members, and questionnaires administered to 120 students. Findings indicate significant infrastructure gaps, including insufficient multimedia classrooms, an outdated language laboratory, and a shortage of current Mandarin textbooks aligned with the HSK standard. Faculty quality is a relative strength, with four of six permanent Mandarin instructors holding Chinese government-sponsored postgraduate qualifications. Student satisfaction is moderate, with the majority expressing enthusiasm for the programme despite physical constraints. Internet connectivity limitations constrain access to online Mandarin learning platforms. The study concludes that the university's Chinese Studies infrastructure requires substantial investment in digital learning tools and updated learning materials. Given the university's location in a conflict-sensitive region, it also recommends building partnerships with international online Mandarin platforms to ensure continuity of instruction during periods of campus disruption in the North East zone.

Keywords: Chinese language infrastructure, University of Maiduguri, North East Nigeria, Mandarin instruction, Borno State