Xian Yunlin, champion of the senior division, speaks about the Chinese zodiac during the English public speaking contest organized by 51Talk in Beijing, July 22, 2019. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"I was profoundly impressed and even amazed by the contestants' love and knowledge towards traditional Chinese culture," said Xu Min, one of the judges. "They are able to express, with perfect English, their own cultural identity. I believe this confirms the significance and achievement made in our primary education."

The parent of one contestant, Fan Yihan, shared her insights on education. "Yihan loves to learn about culture and language. And during the past two years, her English teachers also have been offering consistent support for her."

This contest, in response to the national call for "fostering the younger generation for the great rejuvenation of China", plans to inspire Chinese youth and enhance their confidence in cultural legacy.