Ningbo, China – The International Media Communication Activity of "Travelogue of China," jointly hosted by the China Public Diplomacy Association (CPDA) and Global Times Online, made a stop at Ningbo University on November 29, highlighting the university's commitment to international education and the unique charm of Chinese culture. This year's theme, "Exploring the Land of Fish and Rice, Witnessing New Achievements of Chinese Modernization," focused on a comprehensive view of Ningbo's progress.
As guests stepped onto the lush green lawn of Ningbo University, they were greeted by the majestic Clock Tower and intricately carved olive tree donated by alumni. Amidst this picturesque setting, an outdoor experiential class for the international course "Intercultural Communication" was in full swing, led by Associate Professor Cui Zhenfeng, a master of Bajiquan martial arts and a member of the bilingual teaching team.
With swift and graceful movements, Cui and his students, both Chinese and international, demonstrated the essence and beauty of Bajiquan, a traditional Chinese martial art. Each gesture and stance embodied the spirit of "Dragons soaring and tigers leaping", and Bajiquan's power flows freely. A Russian student shared the history, basic techniques, and his personal learning experiences of Bajiquan, providing the international media guests with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chinese traditional culture. Associate Professor Cui, with a satisfied smile, said, "Through martial arts, this cross-cultural bridge, we aim to bring Chinese traditional culture closer to students from all over the world, allowing them to experience its profound heritage and unique charm, thereby promoting cultural exchange and integration."
Adding to the cultural feast, Associate Professor Lin Yan's team of Chinese and international students presented a visual spectacle with their meticulously crafted Zhejiang-style flower arrangements. These arrangements not only showcased the essence of traditional Chinese flower arranging but also embodied Ningbo University's teaching philosophy of "Nurturing the Soul with Beauty, Enlightening the Mind with Culture." The event fostered mutual learning and exchange among students from diverse cultural backgrounds, highlighting the crucial role of international aesthetic education in enhancing understanding and respect.
Speaking about her art, Professor Lin shared profound insights, “Flower arranging, like life, requires patience, attention to detail, and a harmonious blend of elements to achieve beauty and balance. Each stem, petal, and leaf represents different aspects of our lives, teaching us about growth, resilience, and the art of living in harmony with our surroundings.”
The Ningbo University stop of the "Travelogue of China" International Media Communication Activity not only deepened international media's understanding of the university and the Ningbo region but also demonstrated the university's active contribution to inheriting and promoting traditional Chinese culture and facilitating cultural exchange and cooperation between China and the world. With an open and inclusive attitude, Ningbo University welcomes friends from all corners of the globe, ready to jointly create a brighter future.