UA students now have an opportunity to learn one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, without paying a cent.

The Confucius Institute is offering free Chinese classes every Wednesday in the Student Union 318 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Chao Mu, a graduate assistant for the Confucius Institute, is teaching these beginner level Chinese classes for UA students and faculty. Six people attended the first class on Jan. 28.

“It went very good. It’s a beginning level class; it’s easy to learn. We took a lot of time to practice every word and every sentence,” Mu said.

These classes require no registration, and there will be no quizzes or exams. Each class will revolve around a different topic. Last Wednesday students learned basic greetings and introductions. The last day of these classes is on Apr. 29, 2015.

“It’s our mission to spread Chinese culture all around the world. There are more than 100 Confucius Institutes in the United States,” Mu said. “We want more people who are interested in Chinese culture.”

Mu added that he wants people to have a better understanding of China. The Confucius Institute is helping with this by spreading awareness of Chinese culture in other ways.

One such event is the Chinese New Year Gala at the Akron Art Museum on Feb. 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Presale tickets for this event are $5 for UA students and $8 for the public. Tickets will also be available at the door for $6 for UA students and $10 for the public. For ticket information email [email protected] or call 330-972-2013.