For the talented few, how about Hausa, maybe some Magyar or perhaps plain old Swahili. They will work as interpreters, tour guides or receptionists, but all share a fascination with languages.

So far, 664 have volunteered to assist with communications in 43 foreign languages at the upcoming Universiade, according to the Registration Department for Small-Language Speaking Volunteers. Li Peng, an Arabic major at Beijing Foreign Studies University said she was thrilled to discover 50 "good friends" , all Arabic speakers. She could hardly believe it.

The volunteers come from enterprises, joint ventures, and universities. Many are foreign students in Beijing or foreign workers.

(China.org.cn reports)