On the afternoon of November 15th, the Student Activity Center Square in the East Campus of the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) was transformed into a vibrant stage for cultural convergence, as the university’s 9th Sino-Foreign Cultural Exchange Festival drew to a successful close. With the theme "Bridging Mountains and Seas, Connecting China and the World - Saying Hello to the Globe", this year’s festival was elaborately organized by the International College. It attracted over 300 international students from 29 countries, and gathered more than 2,000 Chinese and foreign faculty members and students through distinctive cultural booths and splendid artistic performances. Laughter and joy filled the air, leaving an indelible mark on cross-cultural exchanges.
At the opening ceremony, four hosts kicked off the event with an enthusiastic address that instantly ignited the atmosphere. Ms. Yizhu SHEN, Deputy Director of the Office of International Cooperation, noted in her opening remarks that the Sino-Foreign Cultural Exchange Festival is a vivid practice of the "global village" concept. It not only builds a bridge for equal dialogue and in-depth communication between Chinese and foreign students but also embodies USTC’s campus spirit of diversity, inclusiveness, openness, and win-win cooperation. Afterwards, Ms. Shen presented certificates of recognition to international students who won Academic Excellence Awards and Activity Participation Awards, honoring their outstanding achievements in academic exploration and campus cultural engagement.
The venue buzzed with energy as visitors explored the international cultural booths. International students fully showcased the unique charm of their respective cultures through diverse media, including traditional cuisine, ethnic costumes, native languages, and interactive games. From aromatic beverages and tempting specialty delicacies to engaging quizzes and lively interactive sessions, each booth offered a distinctive experience. Teachers and students wandered among the booths, engaging in in-depth conversations with international students, immersing themselves in exotic customs, and fostering mutual cultural understanding and emotional connection.
The artistic performance segment was even more brilliant, with one highlight after another. Chinese and foreign students shared the stage, presenting a wonderful fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. Traditional Chinese performances exuded profound oriental charm through elegant melodies and graceful movements, while international students delivered dynamic and passionate shows reflecting their national characteristics. From vocal and instrumental performances brimming with youthful vitality to dance and martial arts displays that balanced strength and grace, each act drew enthusiastic applause from the audience, showcasing the beauty and allure of cultural integration.
The 9th Sino-Foreign Cultural Exchange Festival concluded in a warm and harmonious atmosphere. This event not only showcased the positive spirit of USTC students but also used culture as a bridge to strengthen friendships among young people from around the world, composing a touching new chapter of borderless exchanges. In the future, USTC will continue to build platforms for cross-cultural communication, looking forward to welcoming more outstanding students to join hands in creating a brilliant new vision of international exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations.
（Offce of International Cooperation, International College of University of Science and Technology of China）
