The Europe–China Monitor

In a celebration of language, learning, and connection, the Ireland Speech Festival illuminated the headquarters of the Ireland Sino Institute in Liaoning Province on November 13th and 14th, 2025. What began as a simple idea — to encourage Chinese students to explore Ireland through speech — blossomed into a moving and inspiring event filled with curiosity, courage, and genuine cross-cultural friendship.

Ireland is consistently ranked among the most highly educated countries in the world and holds first place in the OECD for reading literacy. Through initiatives such as the Ireland Speech Festival, the Ireland Sino Institute is proud to share this spirit of educational excellence in China, creating opportunities for young people to learn, express themselves, and build meaningful bridges of understanding between the Irish and Chinese people.

Voices of the Next Generation

Hundreds of Chinese students participated in the festival under the theme “Exploring Ireland.” They began by researching Ireland’s history, culture, and traditions before writing and rehearsing their speeches. Participants then submitted audio recordings, which were carefully reviewed by experts at the Institute who provided personalised feedback and guidance ahead of the final stage presentations.

The speeches were deeply inspiring — each word carrying the warmth, sincerity, and determination of youth. What made these moments even more remarkable was the journey behind them. Many students travelled from remote villages across Changtu County, some departing before dawn in bitter cold conditions, determined to stand on stage and share their voices. For them, this was far more than a competition; it was an act of courage, hope, and personal pride.

Honouring Effort and Excellence

Participants were awarded Certificates of Achievement, recognising their dedication, confidence, and exceptional efforts. Several shared that taking part in the festival was not only a personal milestone, but also a great source of pride for their families and communities, who watched as their children became symbols of friendship and learning between China and Ireland.

The festival also welcomed participants from as far away as Shenyang and Hubei Province, further strengthening the atmosphere of unity and shared aspiration. In a special moment, a scholar from Hubei Normal University delivered an impassioned speech on Ireland–China cultural relations via live video link.

As a token of friendship, participants received carefully selected Irish souvenirs, each representing Ireland’s rich heritage and enduring spirit. For many students, these small gifts carried deep meaning — not only as a reminder of their achievement, but as a lasting symbol of connection to Ireland and the values of curiosity, creativity, and mutual respect that define the festival.

Poetry as a Bridge

Pat McCarthy, Chair of the Ireland Sino Institute, was deeply honoured to explicate and recite the Seamus Heaney poem “Scaffolding.” He reflected on Heaney’s clever use of symbolism and irony, noting how a wall — so often seen as a symbol of separation — is transformed in the poem into one of strength, unity, and trust.

He explained that the poem reminds us that strong relationships are not built overnight. They are formed through time, patience, and countless small acts of care. In this way, “Scaffolding” beautifully mirrors the evolving friendship between Ireland and China, a relationship that has grown steadily over the past 45 years into a resilient and meaningful partnership.

“We may let the scaffolds fall,
Confident that we have built our wall.”

A Moment of Musical Unity

Another unforgettable moment came when the renowned and talented Erhu player, Setanta McCarthy — who recently performed at the Beijing Intangible Cultural Heritage Festival — gave a special performance at the Ireland Speech Festival. Blending cultures in a truly moving display, he played the beloved Irish melody “Danny Boy” on the traditional Chinese Erhu, symbolising the harmony between Irish and Chinese heritage in a single, powerful performance.

A Continuing Mission

The Ireland Sino Institute — recognised by the China State Council, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Civil Affairs — is honoured to be able to contribute to rural development in China.

Since 2012, through its philanthropic and educational initiatives, the Institute has helped provide quality education to more than 25,000 rural Chinese students and remains deeply committed to expanding this support in the years ahead.

Looking forward, the Institute will continue to promote cultural understanding, educational opportunity, and stronger ties between Ireland, Europe, and China.

How You Can Help

You too can be part of this mission. By supporting our “Give 1,000 Rural Chinese Children a Quality Education” campaign, you can help provide learning resources and opportunities to children living in underserved rural communities and become a part of a lasting bridge of hope and knowledge.

© 2025 Pat McCarthy