he three-month Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) International Summer School had 46 courses and attracted over 900 students, showing a rise in enrollment and course options compared to 2023.

A group photo of participants of the summer school at the opening ceremony

The summer school ran from July to September to enhance students’ understanding of Chinese culture. Its participants were from 48 countries, including the United States, Russia, Thailand, France, Australia, Iraq, Egypt, and Peru.

Lu Qinyi, the deputy dean of the School of International Cultural Exchange at SISU, said he encouraged participants at the opening ceremony to enjoy the program and maintain curiosity. He added that participants can explore Shanghai and China, respect each other, embrace diversity, and better understand different cultures.

50 experienced teachers taught for 46 course based on participants’Chinese language proficiency. These courses were not only about learning language but also about understanding the Chinese society, traditional culture, and diplomacy.

Students were experiencing calligraphy during the class

Students were experiencing paper-cutting during the class

The 'Paper-Cutting Experience' course is one of the traditional culture courses. During the class, participants made paper-cut shapes such as flowers, crabs, butterflies, and rabbits holding the moon, which are traditionally used to decorate windows during the Chinese New Year celebrations. These designs are referred to as 'chuanghua'.

The summer school also allowed international students to experience the daily life at local Shanghai families.

Aleksandra Andonova from Bulgaria said engaging with the locals improved her language skills and gave her insights into job markets and national developments in various countries.

The Shanghai Summer School is hosted by the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission and organized by the School of International Cultural Exchange at Shanghai International Studies University. Collaborating with foreign universities such as Carnegie Mellon University in the United States, this project targeting students from countries such as Russia, Thailand, France, and Australia.