On December 20, 2024, the closing ceremony of the 2024 China-US Youth Exchange Program was successfully held on the second floor of the library at Shanghai Zhongqiao Vocational and Technical University. During the week-long exchange program, faculty and students from the United States engaged in in-depth academic discussions and cultural experiences with their counterparts at Zhongqiao. This successful collaboration marks a significant step forward in promoting cross-cultural exchange between Chinese and American students and advancing the university’s efforts in educational internationalization. The program also served as a platform to share traditional Chinese culture, foster friendships, and contribute to the university’s goals of diversity and innovation.
President Huo Jiazheng of Zhongqiao University emphasized in his speech that this exchange provided a rich and meaningful platform for students from both countries to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s cultures and promote educational dialogue. He expressed hope that this fruitful experience would positively impact the participants’ future professional and personal growth. President Huo also conveyed his sincere gratitude to the American students for their enthusiastic participation and to Zhongqiao’s faculty and staff for their dedicated efforts. He concluded by expressing optimism for more collaborative and enriching exchange programs in the future to further deepen Sino-American educational partnerships and strengthen mutual friendships.
Dr. Sun Jie, an academic advisor accompanying the international delegation, reflected on the diverse experiences of the week. Students not only explored iconic landmarks in Shanghai but also enjoyed hands-on cultural activities, such as learning to cook authentic Chinese cuisine. She highlighted how the cross-cultural interactions enhanced mutual understanding and friendships among the students. Dr. Sun expressed her gratitude to the School of International Education for their meticulous organization and thanked Zhongqiao University for its strong support. She encouraged all participants to turn this invaluable experience into motivation for future endeavors, maintain their curiosity for knowledge, and share their reflections on Shanghai’s unique culture and their time in China.
Marat, a student representative from the US, shared his experiences during the program. Using photographs he had taken, he recounted his memorable moments in Shanghai, which deepened his understanding of Chinese culture and history and sparked his interest in traditional Chinese practices. Zhongqiao student representative Ma Jiahao also shared his reflections, recounting the enjoyable experiences of visiting iconic Shanghai landmarks and tasting local cuisine alongside the American students. Both expressed their enthusiasm for cross-cultural exchange and their commitment to fostering international friendships. Their remarks underscored the passion and dedication of Chinese and American youth in promoting multicultural exchange and collaboration, reflecting a positive attitude toward expanding international horizons and cultural dialogue.
Presentation of Certificates
The program concluded with a commemorative group photo, marking the successful completion of the 2024 China-US Youth Exchange Program. Over the past week, participants studied, lived, engaged in academic discussions, and exchanged cultural insights together, deepening their understanding of one another, strengthening friendships, and laying a solid foundation for future collaboration. Shanghai Zhongqiao Vocational and Technical University remains committed to deepening international exchanges and cooperation, advancing educational reform and innovation, and providing students with broader international perspectives and enriched learning experiences. The university continues to contribute its efforts to the high-quality development and internationalization of vocational education.
The closing ceremony was attended by Assistant to the President and Dean of the School of International Education, Yan Hui; Director of the International Cooperation Office and Vice Dean of the School of International Education, Wang Ling; Vice Dean of the School of International Education, Feng Yuqiang; Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Office, Sheng Yumeng; and Program Coordinator of the China-US Exchange Program, Jin Congying.
