Courses taught in ethnic languages

Universities in Guizhou province will introduce preparatory bilingual classes in Chinese and another ethnic language this year.

The universities are aiming to recruit some 150 students who are interested in mastering one of the ethnic group languages including Miao, Dong, Yi, Shui, Yao and Buyi, the six major ethnic groups in the southwestern province, which is home to 17 ethnic groups.

"During the preparatory year, the students will take courses in Chinese and ethnic minority languages. Then they can start their freshmen year as either a Chinese or ethnic language major," said Fan Yunlong, vice-president of Guizhou Minzu University.