As Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius in east China’s Shandong Province, gears up to host the 2025 China International Confucius Cultural Festival on September 27–28, a CGTN stringer traveled to South Africa to explore how Confucian ideas resonate beyond the Chinese mainland.
At the heart of Confucianism lies the virtue of "ren"—benevolence or humaneness. For many South Africans, this mirrors the local philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasizes our shared humanity and encourages kindness toward others. "Ren is very much like Ubuntu," says Clea Schultz Mofokeng, a community organizer in Johannesburg. "Both teach us to care for one another."
Education was another core principle championed by Confucius over 2,500 years ago, and it still inspires people today. "I believe everyone should have access to learning," explains Greta Frieslaar, an education advocate in Cape Town. "Confucius’s push for universal education speaks to our values of equality and opportunity."
As the 2025 festival approaches, organizers are spotlighting these universal connections—showing how ancient ideas can spark modern conversations on global values. From cultural performances and lectures to interactive exhibits, the event in Shandong Province aims to bridge cultures and inspire new dialogues.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, the overlap between "ren" and Ubuntu offers fresh perspectives on community, leadership, and social responsibility—proof that ancient wisdom still shapes our world today.
Reference(s):
We Talk: How Confucian thought resonates with South Africans
cgtn.com
