Sandton police learn to speak Chinese
SANDTON - The large Chinese business community based in Sandton and the Sandton police are taking their relationship to the next level.
An enthusiastic group of police officers are in the process of learning to speak, read and write Chinese. The initiative is aimed at enhancing communication between the police and the Chinese community.
According to Police Councillor for the Chinese Embassy, Wang Zhigang, Chinese residents are keen to work with the police, but find that the relationship often becomes hostile because of communication difficulties. He said many Chinese people can speak and understand basic English, but few South Africans understand basic Chinese.
A group of about 12 police officers are being taught about the language, culture and food of China. The group meets at the Sinosteel Plaza in Sandton once a week for two hours. There they practise their new craft under the watchful supervision of their teacher. The course will last five months, and may at a later stage be expanded to include Metro police and immigration officials.
The relevant stakeholders are all entirely satisfied with the programme. It is believed that it will enable better service delivery to the Chinese community, and enable the Chinese community to be more involved in community initiatives.
VIDEO: Watch as the Sandton police learn to speak Chinese.
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They can’t even speak English properly. Shouldn’t this be a priority?