This summer, 40 University of Kent students learning Mandarin took part in two exceptional funded programmes in China. These programmes gave students the opportunity to develop their language skills, broaden their global outlook and experience Chinese culture first-hand.
- 25 students were selected to participate in the fully funded two-week China Study Tour (8-21 June), delivered in partnership with the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) and Achieve International Education Group (AIEG). The programme enabled students to study at two leading universities: East China University of Political Science and Law (ECUPL) in Shanghai and Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT), Zhuhai. Thanks to the generous support of CSCSE and AIEG, course fees, accommodation, meals, international and domestic travel were fully funded, with travel insurance provided by the University of Kent.
In Shanghai, students explored China’s social governance through lectures and visits to courts, law firms and community organisations, while the second week in Zhuhai focused on artificial intelligence, innovation and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area through academic sessions and visits to high-tech enterprises.
- Another group of 15 students enjoyed their China experience by joining the three-week Chinese Bridge Summer School at Xi’an Kedagaoxin University (KDGX) (23 June -13 July). Now in its fourth year since the partnership began in 2022, the programme offered intensive Mandarin classes, HSK preparation, cultural workshops and visits to iconic sites including the Terracotta Warriors, Dayan Pagoda and Xi’an’s historic city centre. Tuition, accommodation and meals were generously provided by our partner university.
One student said:
“… We were so well looked after and welcomed. I had so many new experiences and learned so much. I am so grateful and honoured to have been part of the trip ❤️“
These immersive experiences demonstrate the Language Centre’s commitment to providing students with opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. We believe that these international experiences not only strengthen students’ Mandarin language skills but also enhance their intercultural competence, confidence and global outlook – qualities that prepare them for careers in an increasingly international workplace.