ODTU Preparing To Teach Chinese

ANKARA - The Middle East Technical University (ODTU) has set up a Confucius Research Center to teach Chinese language and culture.
"We will start giving Chinese language courses in this center as of February 2008," ODTU Rector Prof. Dr. Ural Akbulut told A.A correspondent on Sunday.
Akbulut said Turkey does not know much about China. "However, there are many documents about Turks in the Chinese archives. We cannot even learn about our own history since we do not have experts who know Chinese."
According to the rector, experts who can examine Chinese archives can shed light to Turkish history and also China is among the fastest growing economies in the world.
"Therefore, we decided to set up this center. We expect a lecturer from China," Akbulut told.
Akbulut said those who are not a student of ODTU can also join the courses.
"Those who complete the course will get a certificate. This center will teach not only Chinese language, but also Chinese culture," he also said.