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“In 2020, I graduated from Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics with a bachelor’s degree. Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics provides international students with the opportunity to learn about Chinese culture and language, allowing us to communicate and learn from each other, creating a warm and fulfilling experience.” This year, returning to Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Zhang Na, a master’s student majoring in International Business from the School of International Economics and Trade, Class of 2023, from the Republic of Kazakhstan, expressed her feelings at the freshmen opening ceremony.
Over the years, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics has attracted a large number of outstanding overseas students to come to China for exchange. The university constantly innovates its education model for international students, explores new teaching methods, leverages the unique advantages of international students in bridging Chinese and foreign cultures, serves the overall goal of promoting communication and cooperation between China and the world, and jointly tells the story of China.
Exchange programs promote education and cultivate internationally-minded students
In early September, 46 new postgraduate and doctoral students from Russia, Morocco, Guinea, and other countries completed procedures such as document verification, insurance purchase, registration, and dormitory allocation at Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics. Guided by volunteer students, they visited the campus, familiarized themselves with the layout of the school’s infrastructure, and experienced the century-old cultural atmosphere of Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics while learning about its history.
Prior to this, in the International Summer Camp activities, 126 overseas students gathered with teachers from the university to discuss and exchange ideas on topics such as the development of China’s digital economy, China’s opening-up strategy, and appreciation of ceramic art. “Under the call of the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative, communication and exchange between countries along the Silk Road and among young people are particularly important… This event not only deepened the understanding and knowledge of overseas students about China’s digital economy and traditional culture but also enhanced friendship among them,” Vice President Liu Xiaoli said.
The university also held a meeting with the presidents of international students’ associations to understand the difficulties and demands of international students in their study and life, and listen to their opinions and suggestions on student management. “International students come from different countries, which brings cultural backgrounds and habits differences,” said Liu Xiaoli. “We need to strengthen communication and exchange between teachers and students, as well as among classmates and administrative personnel, improve the level of education management for international students, and enhance the effectiveness of running the school and student satisfaction.”
Practice enhances understanding and cultivates friendly ambassadors
Visiting Jingdezhen to make porcelain and tasting Chinese tea brewed with Jingdezhen tea sets, the blending of porcelain and tea showcases the profound historical and cultural heritage of China. In Fuzhou City, known as the “Hometown of Chinese Talents,” students learn about the life story of Tang Xianzu, a master of Chinese opera, and watch live performances of “Dreaming of the Peony Pavilion” to experience the charm of traditional Chinese opera culture…
In order to allow international students to have a deep understanding of Chinese culture, the university takes advantage of its geographical and cultural advantages and carries out various activities such as “China-foreign University Student Social Practice Week.” International students participate in visits to revolutionary education bases together with Chinese students, gaining insights into the indomitable revolutionary spirit of the Chinese nation. They also visit local farmers, schools, and factories to witness the practical effects of poverty alleviation efforts.
Through internal and external practical activities, international students’ understanding of China continues to deepen. During Teacher’s Day, international students create greeting posters and write congratulatory messages, presenting flowers to mentors and teachers who are dedicated to education. During National Day, international students spontaneously gathered at the Red Cradle Cultural Square in the North Campus to recite poems and perform a “flash mob” activity.
Leading by example: Cultivating international friends who love China
“Recently, three international students from Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics became the first group of overseas volunteers for the Nanchang Charity Federation. They joined members of the volunteer association to provide teaching support at Lingbei Primary School in Nanchang. Through activities such as games and interactive teaching methods, they brought joy and shared knowledge, effectively motivating the children’s learning enthusiasm. This exchange allowed the international students to feel the warmth and hospitality of the children and planted seeds of kindness in their hearts.
In 2021, the Lei Feng International Volunteers Association was established at Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics. Since then, more and more international students have joined the association, using practical actions to embody the noble pursuit and mission of contemporary youth in upholding the spirit of Lei Feng. In March of this year, members of the Lei Feng International Volunteers Association went to Hu Jia Primary School to carry out volunteer service exchanges. “Lei Feng is my idol and represents the values that I have always pursued,” said Wu Di, a student from Bangladesh and the initiator of the volunteer association. He shared the history of the association, introduced Lei Feng’s story, and learned about the spirit of Lei Feng together with the students of Hu Jia Primary School, experiencing the profound meaning and power of the Lei Feng spirit.
Since 1995, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics has been admitting international students. As of 2023, it has trained 2,639 international students from 151 countries. The university offers 17 fully English-taught majors and has formed a multi-level education system that includes undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and non-degree programs. The university pays attention to cultivating international students’ understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture and their sense of building a community with a shared future for humanity. It not only promotes a correct understanding of Chinese society and historical development among international students but also continuously enhances their cross-cultural identity and international perspectives, making contributions to telling the story of China.”
