In an effort to immerse the international students in the ambiance of traditional Chinese New Year, and to acquaint them with the allure of Chinese cultural heritage, Chengdu University of Technology (CDUT) recently hosted the 2024 New Year Gala for international students, which was organized by the International Students Management Office of the Department of International Exchanges & Cooperation. Attended by nearly 50 students hailing from “Belt and Road” nations like Russia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, Myanmar, and Tajikistan, the event saw participants engaging in activities ranging from couplet crafting to dumpling making and traditional games like pitch-pot. This collective experience not only delved into the captivating essence of the Spring Festival but also fostered a shared appreciation of Chinese culture. In attendance were key figures, including Li Shan, Deputy Director of the Department of International Exchanges & Cooperation, Chen Qian, Director of the International Students Management Office, and Wang Jie, an international student counselor.
Group photo of all participants
International students learning to write couplets
Horizontal strokes akin to formations of clouds, vertical lines resembling cascading waterfalls, upright ones akin to the gentle descent of morning dew, and delicate points reminiscent of a scattering of celestial stars — as participants indulged in the “Year of Dragon Calligraphy Experience” event, strokes of the character “fu” (blessing) unfolded, each imbued with the profound beauty that encapsulates the auspicious wishing during the Spring Festival. Guided by seasoned calligraphy instructors, international students diligently wielded brushes, gaining firsthand insights into the intricate artistry of writing “fu,” thus deepening their understanding of its cultural significance.
International students learning to make dumplings
The age-old Chinese tradition of eating dumplings, embodying Chinese people’s wishing for family reunion and prosperity, took center stage in the “Making Dumplings to Welcome the New Year” event. Cafeteria staff patiently elucidated and demonstrated the nuanced process of dumpling creation, transforming tables into veritable displays of ingot-shaped and fan-like delicacies. A tapestry of shapes, including sunflowers, butterflies, and small boats, emerged as international students unleashed their creativity, punctuating the cafeteria with the delightful sounds of laughter and camaraderie.
Amidst the revelry of the gala, a variety of interactive games seamlessly intertwined with the international students’ performances. Students eagerly embraced each heart-pounding game and challenge, infusing the venue with an exuberant and lively air. The amalgamation of performances and participatory activities not only bestowed a sense of care and warmth upon those studying on foreign shores but also deepened their comprehension of Chinese customs and traditional festivities. These students enthusiastically voiced their profound affinity for Chinese culture and the festive spirit surrounding the Chinese New Year.
Saxophone performance
Experiencing the traditional Chinese game of pitch-pot
Trying out the game of table tennis ball clamping
At the conclusion of the event, Li Shan presented the international students with exclusive Year of the Dragon Spring Festival gift packages, conveying warm holiday greetings and blessings. The group partook in a collective photographic session, during which students were coached in expressing New Year wishes in Mandarin, creating an atmosphere resonating with laughter and merriment.
Leader from the Department of International Exchanges & Cooperation presenting gifts to international students
Championing the ethos of “telling the Chinese story and conveying the Chinese voices,” CDUT consistently orchestrates festive activities during the Chinese New Year, enhancing the winter holiday experience for its international students. This initiative seeks to imbue a sense of warmth and the jubilant atmosphere of the Chinese New Year for those studying abroad, fostering their emotional ties with China, and positioning them as ambassadors for culturally enriching and optimistic exchanges.
