“Learning Happy Chinese, Tasting Chinese Food”--Lampang Food Festival Kicks off

Lampang, August 21st—the first Chinese food summer camp entitled “Learning Happy Chinese, Tasting Chinese Food” opened. It was the first summer camp with a focus on Chinese food; the activity was hosted by the Confucius Classroom at Lampang Kanlayanee School and the Confucius Classroom at Nawamintharachinuthid Horwang Nonthaburi School.

Mr. santi Tatchaibeam , President of the organizing committee of the summer camp and Vice Director of Lampang Kanlayanee school said at the opening ceremony, that since the establishing of the classroom, great efforts in teaching Chinese language and promotion of traditional Chinese culture such as etiquette and food had been made there. He expressed his hopes that the camp would help his students gain a further understanding of Chinese culinary culture and bring his school into closer contact with its partner.

Nearly 100 teachers and students were involved in the 3-day camp. They were divided into 8 groups and each group was assigned to cook one of the eight major Chinese cuisines, including Dongpo Pork, Fried Shrimps in Hot and Spicy Sauce, Tofu Bisque, Kung Pow Chicken, etc. Under the direction of teachers, the Thai students cooked a variety of tasty dishes. After evaluation by a judiciary panel, the Jiangsu Cuisine group won first place with their Stewed Fish Head with Brown Sauce and Celestial Egg.

A Senior 3 student at Lampang Kanlayanee School, told a reporter that she was happy to participate in the camp. “During the activity, I have not only learned to cook Sichuan dishes, but also made a lot of friends,” she said.

Founded in 1917, Lampang Kanlayanee School has a history of 93 years. It currently has more than 3,000 teachers and students. It began to offer Chinese courses in 2002. Since its Confucius Classroom was set up in March 2009, it has carried out various activities, such as drama performances based on classic Chinese stories, conferences for principals from primary and secondary schools in northern Thailand and a Chinese cultural and language exhibition. These , have given a big push to the development of Chinese education in the area.

Since its establishment in July 2009, the Confucius Classroom at Nawamintharachinuthid Horwang Nonthaburi School has committed itself to promoting Chinese language and culture in Bangkok and its surrounding areas. It has held Chinese cultural experience activities, HSK training, and Chinese language competitions amongst other events.