DIMAPUR — Arentsungla Kichu, a student from Mokokchung and an alumna of Assam Don Bosco University, became the first Naga Mandarin learner hired by Foxconn, a Taiwan-owned world’s largest electronics manufacturer.
In January 2024, Foxconn signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Mandarin-language education project with four tertiary institutions in India, aiming to deepen industry-academia-government ties, increase employment prospects for Indian students and respond to talent demand required for the company’s development in India.
The MoU was signed with Assam Don Bosco University, Shiv Nadar University, VEL TECH and Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, with the support of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC).
Under the project, Foxconn will sponsor relevant subsidies for Mandarin teaching and learning. Moreover, the company will give priority consideration for employment opportunities to Mandarin learners of the above institutions.
An update stated that Kichu started her Mandarin learning adventure in 2020 as soon as the Mandarin programme was launched at ADBU with the arrival of Mandarin lecturer Kuei-Mi LI from Taiwan.
In 2022, Kichu was awarded the Huayu (Mandarin) enrichment scholarship from Taiwan’s Ministry of Education and spent six months studying Mandarin in Taiwan, having firsthand exposure to Taiwan’s language, culture and lifestyle.
With the recommendation of LI, Kichu received prompt interview invitation from Foxconn. It was after multiple rounds of interviews and tests, she finally received the offer letter to work with the company soon.
Kichu said, “I’m very thrilled to be working with Foxconn and intend to make a significant impact in the years to come. I believe that working for one of the world’s top company like Foxconn will help me expand my knowledge and skill set, which will be very beneficial for my future professional endeavors. The value of learning Mandarin and all of its advantages are evident. My ability to speak Mandarin has come in handy during the company’s interviews. I wouldn’t have received this job opportunity if it weren’t for the language. Mandarin proficiency can lead to a variety of career prospects.”
Meanwhile, Lichu has thanked Kuei-Mi, Mandarin instructor, who inspired and supported her all through the interview process.
