Armando Massoca Toronda, a student from Mozambique, who began working toward a master's degree in public administration at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics in 2023, recently shared some thoughts on Chinese New Year traditions in an interview with China Youth Daily.

This year's Spring Festival is especially meaningful. The UNESCO recognition of Chinese New Year highlights its significance, not just as a time for family reunions but also as a key part of Chinese cultural heritage.

During the festival, Toronda stayed on campus, where he made dumplings, and enjoyed the New Year's Eve dinner with friends. "At first, my dumplings were oddly shaped, with the filling spilling out. But with practice, they started to look much better," he said.

The school also organized various activities to introduce international students to traditional Chinese culture, including teaching them how to make red lanterns. "In Chinese tradition, red symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, and red lanterns are believed to ward off evil spirits and ensure family safety," Toronda explained.

"New Year celebrations in Mozambique are quite different. It is usually a small family affair, with no obligation to return to one's hometown. In contrast, Chinese New Year involves large family reunions, and New Year's Eve dinner is the most important meal of the year. Despite these differences, both cultures value family gatherings during holidays, and the peoples of both countries share a mutual respect for one another.

"I often share such experiences with family and friends in Mozambique through WeChat, and they are eager to visit China. I look forward to showing them around. My goal is to help Mozambicans explore the richness of Chinese culture and introduce Chinese people to the beauty of my homeland," said Toronda.

Source: Official WeChat account of SUFE International Cultural Exchange School at "SHUPL-SICE"