Mandarin Language as A Catalyst for Global Competitiveness: A Case Study on Multilingual Education in Higher Education

Abstract

Multilingual proficiency is increasingly essential for enhancing students’ competitiveness in the job market. The addition of Mandarin to the curriculum is seen as a strategic move to comply with national education policies and meet international educational needs. Despite its importance, there remains a significant gap in Mandarin curriculum integration, with existing research focusing on pedagogical practices and student willingness to communicate. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how the integration of Mandarin curriculum into the Diploma programmes enhances the educational and professional outcomes of students. Using a qualitative case study design, the research involved purposive sampling of eight students and employed general inductive thematic analysis for in-depth interviews and document analysis. Key findings include: 1) language policy and institutional commitment, 2) bilingual to trilingual transition, and 3) professional and academic communication skills. The study revealed that Mandarin serves as a valuable addition, significantly boosting students’ global competitiveness by equipping them with a critical language skill highly valued in international job markets. Future research should include longitudinal studies tracking graduates' career paths to assess Mandarin’s long-term impact on global competitiveness and employability. Comparative studies with other institutions, both locally and internationally, can reveal best practices for Mandarin curriculum integration, providing insights to optimize language education and boost students' global readiness.