Chinese has become the fifth-most popular foreign language studied in France, following English, Spanish, German and Italian, with more than 10,000 children learning Chinese now.

 

About 15 primary schools have added Chinese to their curriculum.

 

Unlike the decreasing demand for foreign-language teachers, the need for Chinese teachers is on a rise.

 

Eight teachers have obtained certificates to teach Chinese in high school. The number will increase to 12 next year.

 

(CRI November 27, 2006)