As the 2025 China International Confucius Cultural Festival approaches, global interest in the ancient philosopher’s teachings reveals unexpected cultural bridges. Scheduled for September 27–28 in Qufu, Shandong Province—the birthplace of Confucius—the event will commemorate 2,576 years since his birth, blending tradition with modern cross-cultural dialogue.
A recent CGTN Stringer report from South Africa highlights how Confucian principles resonate far beyond Asia. Clea Schultz Mofokeng, a Johannesburg resident, drew parallels between Confucius’s concept of “ren” (benevolence) and Ubuntu, a Southern African philosophy emphasizing communal kindness. “Ubuntu teaches that our humanity is tied to others’ well-being—much like Confucius’s ideas,” she explained.
Another interviewee, Greta Frieslaar, praised Confucius’s advocacy for universal education, a value she said remains urgent today. “Education unlocks potential, just as he believed centuries ago,” Frieslaar noted, underscoring the timeless relevance of these teachings.
The festival aims to deepen such exchanges, offering a platform for scholars, diaspora communities, and global travelers to explore Confucianism’s role in addressing contemporary challenges. With its focus on harmony and ethical governance, the event is poised to attract business leaders and academics seeking insights into Asia’s soft power.
