Assessment of Chinese Language Programme Outcomes at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in Enugu State hosts one of the longest-established Chinese Studies departments in Nigeria's South East zone, providing a valuable site for assessing programme-level language learning outcomes. This study assesses the Chinese language learning outcomes achieved by graduates, tracing their linguistic proficiency, academic experiences, and post-graduation employment trajectories. A graduate tracer study design was adopted, with surveys administered to 180 graduates who completed the programme between 2015 and 2022. Data were supplemented by interviews with ten departmental faculty members and a review of programme syllabi and assessment records. Results indicate that 64 percent of graduates achieved HSK Level 4 or above by the time of graduation. Employment in Chinese-affiliated organisations within one year of graduation was secured by 71 percent of employed respondents. Graduates identify conversational Mandarin and business Chinese as the most career-relevant skills acquired. Major curriculum weaknesses cited include insufficient exposure to contemporary Chinese business culture and limited practicum opportunities in Chinese commercial environments. The study concludes that the programme produces graduates with meaningful Mandarin proficiency and strong employability but recommends curriculum modernisation, expanded industry internship programmes with Chinese companies in the South East zone, and enhanced HSK preparation support to bring outcomes in line with regional employment demand.

Keywords: Chinese Studies outcomes, University of Nigeria Nsukka, graduate tracer study, Mandarin proficiency, South East Nigeria