For some, English can perhaps be a bit boring, French un petit peut pass? and Russian is do svidaniya, comrade.
For the talented few, how about Hausa, maybe some Magyar or perhaps plain old Swahili. They will work as interpreters, tour guides or receptionists, but all share a fascination with languages.
So far, 664 have volunteered to assist with communications in 43 foreign languages at the upcoming Universiade, according to the Registration Department for Small-Language Speaking Volunteers. Li Peng, an Arabic major at Beijing Foreign Studies University said she was thrilled to discover 50 "good friends" , all Arabic speakers. She could hardly believe it.
The volunteers come from enterprises, joint ventures, and universities. Many are foreign students in Beijing or foreign workers.
(China.org.cn reports)
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