Motswana artist selected to study in China
Chippa Legodimo | Friday January 16, 2015 12:16
There were more surprises in store for him and his teachers. On the day of the exhibition at Thapong Visual Arts Centre, the Chinese Embassy’s Chief Political Officer, Tang Shenping, announced that Kgang had won a five-year sponsorship to study in China.
A few days later, that commitment was cemented by Shenping who went to Moeding College to repeat his statement and inform Kgang’s mother. The young boy was all smiles that day.
At the time, Shenping announced that arrangements had been made for the young man to start attending Chinese classes at the University of Botswana in February this year in preparation for his departure in September.
With February just around the corner Kgang is even more excited.
“I have been supplied with Chinese books and DVDs to help me prepare for my stay there. I am excited that soon I will start learning the language. They have also adjusted my departure to August instead of September,” he said.
Kgang anticipates a fulfilling time in China a lot of adventure as well. “The sponsorship lasts for five years but the first year I will be touring the country to learn about the culture and other things because they want me to be fully focused when I start my courses and I believe it is going to be quite exciting, although I suspect I might struggle a bit with the food,” he said.
Although the youngster was awarded the scholarship based on his performance in art, he is be free to choose what he wants to study, according to Shenpeng.
However, he is still steadfast on focusing on art.
Kgang grew up watching a lot of fiction movies, which inspired his choice of work during the SEATA competition. However, as he prepares to further studies, the youngster insists he would never allow his fantasies cloud his judgment. “I am going there to study and I will be open to all possibilities. I just want to stay focused and one cannot be choosy if he wants to learn,” he said.