English camp prepares young Expo talents

(expo2010china.com)
Updated: 2007-04-01 16:21

Luwan Youth Center was bustling with young people last night. More than 280 middle school students had gathered as part of a two-day English camp with 12 lecturers from the United States, Canada and New Zealand teaching them the history of World Expos and giving lessons in etiquette.

The English camp was part of the 2007 Shanghai Middle School Students' "World Expo English Competition." Two more groups of students will take part in the camp next month.

More than 30,000 students have participated in the "World Expo English" competition, which kicked off on September 21 last year. So far, 2,000 students made it through to the final. On April 22, they will be given oral examination to test their knowledge of Expo history and their English proficiency. The winners will be selected on May 20 and the final will be broadcast on TV.

Li Yuan, a senior official with the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination, said a World Expo presented a mix of many cultures and language was a bridge to bridge gaps between people.

"A successful Expo requires the active participation of the public," said Li. "The English competition not only provides a students with a chance to display their ability, but also for them to feel closer to the event."

The competition winners will be listed as potential volunteers for the World Expo 2010 Shanghai.

Wu Qiyuan, a participant in the competition, said it had enhanced his English proficiency. He expected to become a volunteer for the Expo and to help foreign guests with his fluent English.