How Mudiwa Njawaya, a Zimbabwean Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Bachelor’s in International Economics and Trade at Wenzhou University Through the Chinese Government Scholarship

My name is Mudiwa Njawaya, and I am from Zimbabwe. I am pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in International Economics and Trade at Wenzhou University in China. My degree is taught in Chinese. I chose this field because of the rapidly growing trade and economic relationship between Africa and China. As trade between the two regions continues to expand, I became interested in understanding the business, economic, and international trade dynamics that connect them. I hope to develop the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to stronger trade relations and create opportunities for economic growth and cooperation between Africa and China.

Chinese Government Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Type A) to pursue my Bachelor's Degree in International Economics and Trade at Wenzhou University. The scholarship provides full funding for my studies.

Other Scholarship Applications

Yes. I also had the opportunity to apply for other scholarship programmes, including the Türkiye Scholarships in Turkey. However, after considering my academic interests and future goals, I ultimately chose the Chinese Government Scholarship because studying in China aligned more closely with my interests in international economics, trade, and China–Africa relations.

Educational Background

I completed my secondary education at St John's High School in Harare, Zimbabwe, in 2023. I had good grades, and my secondary education provided a foundation for my further studies and helped prepare me for a Bachelor's Degree in International Economics and Trade.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Wenzhou University?

I first learned about the opportunity to study at Wenzhou University through my former boss, whom I worked for at a Chinese company. He suggested the opportunity, which encouraged me to pursue further studies in China. I then researched the programme and application requirements and applied independently, without using an educational agency. I did not take IELTS or TOEFL. I had completed the Cambridge curriculum during my secondary education in Zimbabwe, and I was exempted from the English proficiency test requirement based on my previous education. I chose China because of its rapid economic growth and technological advancement. I saw studying there as an opportunity to develop my skills and gain exposure to resources and learning opportunities that may be less readily available at home. I also wanted to learn the Chinese language and understand the country's culture and business environment. My long-term aim is to become a bridge between China and Zimbabwe, and the wider African region.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship?

I prepared a personal statement and study plan explaining my academic interests, reasons for choosing International Economics and Trade, and future aspirations. I collected several recommendation letters from my high school teachers and my senior boss at the Chinese company where I had worked. I also prepared my academic transcripts, certificates, and other required supporting documents. I contacted Wenzhou University to obtain information about the application process and handled the application independently.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my genuine interest in China, its culture, and its language helped my application stand out. Before applying, I had worked for a Chinese company, which gave me an opportunity to interact with Chinese people and learn about aspects of Chinese culture, traditions, and the working environment. I had also taken steps to learn the Chinese language. When I applied, I had attained HSK Level 2. I believe this previous exposure showed that my interest in studying in China was genuine. My academic interest in international economics and trade, together with my goal of contributing to stronger economic relations between China and Africa, also gave my application a clear direction.

What Would You Have Done Differently If You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Honestly, I would not change much about my application journey. However, I would encourage future applicants to research their chosen universities and the cities where they are located carefully. Different cities in China have different lifestyles and costs of living. Some are more expensive, while others are more affordable. Wenzhou is relatively affordable, which I appreciate. Applicants should look beyond the university itself and consider the cost of living and the overall environment of the city before making their decision.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice to students from Zimbabwe and across Africa is simple: start the application process and do not give up. The Chinese Government Scholarship application can be lengthy and rigorous, but persistence and preparation are important. Get your recommendation letters, academic transcripts, certificates, and other required documents ready in advance. I would also encourage applicants to learn some Chinese before applying. Knowledge of the language is a valuable advantage. When I applied, I had attained HSK Level 2, which I believe helped my application. Applicants may be asked to speak Chinese during interviews, so having some basic knowledge can be useful. It is also important to show a genuine interest in China, its language, and its culture.