On July 28th, 2024 "Chinese Bridge" Summer Camp of Confucius Institute at the Guadalajara University came to a successful conclusion on our campus.
The 14-day summer camp featured not only HSK3-related Chinese language courses but also the unique "Walk in Beijing, Talk in Beijing" media-themed courses. The courses paired international students with Chinese students to explore the cultural heritage along Beijing's central axis, gaining insights into the city's blend of ancient and modern elements. Additionally, the students engaged in hands-on experiences such as traditional Chinese medicine processing, Chinese martial arts, traditional Chinese handicraft workshops, and Beijing local culinary culture. Complementing these activities, field trips provided insights into the architectural aesthetics of the Palace Museum, the national spirit embodied in the Great Wall, the philosophical concept of "harmony between heaven and humanity" in the Temple of Heaven, and the wisdom behind the urban planning of Beijing showcased at the Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall. The tours also highlighted the unique characteristics and folk culture embedded within Beijing's historic Hutongs. The courses and activities were diverse and engaging. The students enthusiastically participated in each activity, applying the language knowledge they had acquired in their Chinese classes. The entire itinerary was filled with joy and rich with rewarding experiences.
On the 28th, the International Affairs Office organized a "Beijing in My Eye" thematic seminar and closing ceremony for the participants of the summer camp and their Chinese partners from the Media and Spanish majors of BCU. During the seminar, the students spoke freely, creating a lively and warm atmosphere. They expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the summer camp and thanked their Chinese partners for their help and companionship during this time. Many hoped that their Chinese friends would visit Mexico in the future and looked forward to the possibility of returning to China for further studies to continue their stories in China.
This summer camp not only promoted the Chinese language courses offered by the Confucius Institute but also expanded the institute's influence in the local community. It also provided the chance for friendly exchanges between Chinese and Mexican youth. It is hoped that the participants of the summer camp will continue to use the Chinese language as a bridge to contribute to the friendly exchanges between the two countries in the future.
