On December 1, 2024, our university held the closing ceremony of SDJU Sino-US Youth Exchange Program, themed “Exploring Innovative China in Shanghai”. The ceremony marked a heartfelt farewell to 21 students and teachers from Northern Illinois University and University of Illinois Springfield.
In order to implement President Xi Jinping’s initiative of “inviting 50,000 American youths to China for study and exchange programs over the next five years”, SDJU officially launched the first batch of “Exploring Innovative China in Shanghai” Sino-US Youth Exchange Program. This initiative coincided with the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. The 10-day exchange program featured a blend of theoretical lectures and immersive on-site experiences. Participants from both countries explored China’s digital innovation and high-tech achievements while engaging in traditional cultural activities such as Chinese calligraphy, painting and Taijiquan. These activities offered the participants a deeper understanding of China’s economic development. Meanwhile, the program highlighted the friendly exchanges between China and other nations through business and cultural interactions, fostering mutual understanding. Participants also delved into cutting-edge fields like live broadcasting and e-commerce, gaining hands-on experience as anchors. This unique opportunity provided valuable insights into new media and digital technology, enriching their perspectives on China’s innovation-driven growth.
During the 10-day exchange program, the American teachers and students, along with SDJU volunteers, spent an intense yet fulfilling time, deeply engaging in coursework and cultural activities. The delegation began with foundational lessons in language and culture, including Chinese character classes, calligraphy lessons, and traditional Chinese painting sessions, gaining an initial appreciation for the profound charm of Chinese culture. In the calligraphy class, participants not only learned the basic techniques of brush use but also completed their own calligraphy works under the guidance of instructors. Students expressed that the process of learning Chinese characters and calligraphy gave them a deep sense of the historical significance and aesthetic beauty carried by Chinese writing. Meanwhile, the experience of modern Chinese meticulous floral and bird paintings during the art class showcased the delicate vitality of traditional Chinese art.
Beyond classroom learning, the American teachers and students also put on Hanfu, immersing themselves in the rich culture of traditional Chinese clothing. SDJU volunteers patiently explained styles, patterns and cultural meanings of Hanfu, using interactive sessions to foster connections among the participants. The program extended beyond the classroom, encompassing visits to several iconic landmarks in Shanghai. From the state-of-art Shanghai Astronomy Museum to the Tech Innovation Corridor at Dishui Lake, the delegation experienced firsthand China’s rapid development in technology innovation. The visit to the Dishui Lake AI Innovation Hub left a particularly strong impression on the American participants. Through tours of AI enterprise exhibition centers, they gained deeper insights into how Chinese companies are integrating AI technologies into everyday life and various industries.
City tours were another integral part of the program. At Yu (Yuyuan) Garden, the teachers and students admired the architectural aesthetics and historical charm of traditional Chinese gardens. Ascending the Oriental Pearl Tower, they took in the breathtaking view of Shanghai’s dazzling nightscape, fully appreciating the modern urban allure of the city. Chinese students guided the delegation through Shanghai’s streets and alleys, showcasing the city’s inclusive cultural charm in an authentic and immersive way. Through this comprehensive experience, the American participants not only witnessed a vibrant Shanghai but also felt the warm humanity and cultural richness that underpin the city’s dynamic spirit.
The delegation also ventured beyond Shanghai to visit the renowned Jiangnan (the region south of the Yangtze River in China) water town of Wuzhen and the picturesque city of Hangzhou. Wuzhen’s serene waterways and rich historical heritage left the teachers and students in awe. Their appreciation deepened after experiencing a captivating light and water show that seamlessly blended modern technology with traditional culture, offering a profound understanding of the harmony between China’s cultural traditions and modernization. In Hangzhou, the group explored leading internet enterprises and toured the scenic West Lake. While admiring the poetic beauty of Jiangnan’s landscapes, they also gained valuable insights into the pivotal role of the digital economy in urban development, highlighting the interplay between cultural heritage and technological progress.
In recent years, SDJU has been actively advancing international cooperation and exchange. Guided by its “Open for Growth” strategy, SDJU has further deepened its international exchanges and cooperation, continuing expanding its global network. SDJU has worked to broaden cooperation pathways with overseas universities and has developed a variety of faculty and student exchange programs. Our university has been approved by the Ministry of Education as a China-Germany cooperative education institution and established the SDJU German Research Center. We have signed and renewed over 100 cooperation agreements with foreign institutions, engaging in multi-level and multi-type international collaboration with universities along the Belt and Road countries.Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 students have been sent abroad for exchange and study programs, and our university has hosted almost 30 exchange delegations from international partner universities, comprising over 400 students. SDJU has also been approved for the National Scholarship Council’s innovation-based international cooperation and training program. We have selected outstanding young faculty and students to pursue degrees, engage in exchange visits, and undertake postdoctoral research at foreign partner universities.
Looking ahead, SDJU will continue to use Sino-US youth exchange programs as a platform, further developing the exchange between Chinese and foreign universities. Our university will invite international students to experience Chinese culture firsthand and witness China’s dynamic development. It will also send domestic students and faculty abroad to enhance their professional skills, broaden their international perspectives, and become future bridges and links in promoting international friendship and cooperation.
