On December 19, International College of Zhejiang University successfully held the 8th International Student Academic Salon and the China Studies Program Scholarship Student Exchange Symposium. Organized by the International Student Academic Club as part of the eighth Student Gala series, this event adopted the theme “Being a Sinologist Here at ZJU.” It aimed to build a platform for young sinologists to exchange academic ideas and inspire intellectual dialogue, promote mutual learning between Chinese and global civilizations, and pool the wisdom and strength of youth. Liu Chao, a tenured associate professor from the College of Education, delivered a keynote speech. Participants included Wang Yufen, Executive Vice Dean of the International College, Yi Honghui and Chen Nanfei, Vice Deans of the International College, as well as Zhejiang University doctoral students from the “China Studies Program.”

Using Sinology as a bridge to show the world the real China

At the beginning, Wang Yufen, Executive Vice Dean of the International College, delivered an opening speech in which she affirmed the achievements in cultivating doctoral students under Zhejiang University’s “China Studies Program” and expressed her earnest expectations. Ms. Wang emphasized that President Xi personally replied to young sinologists and encouraged them to “walk with Sinology and accompany China on its journey.” She stated that doctoral students of the “China Studies Program”should serve as envoys of cultural exchange between China and other civilizations, and contribute wisdom and strength to a community with a shared future for humanity.

Integrating theory and practice to guide the research of young sinologists

Professor Liu Chao provided systematic insights for young sinologists by examining theoretical developments, the academic journey of leading scholars, and the effectiveness and limitations of the New Sinology. He also shared experience and reflections on cross-cultural research and academic innovation among young scholars, charting a clearer academic path for students' future development.

Learning the spirit of President Xi to exemplify the demeanor of young scholars

During the event, faculty and students studied the spirit of the important reply letter from President Xi to young sinologists. In November, TUNGAMIRAI, a student from Zimbabwe, was one of the 61 young sinologists who wrote a letter to the President and received a reply. In this session, TUNGAMIRAI shared his experience of writing the letter and his feelings upon receiving the response, which resonated strongly with the young sinologists present. President Xi’s reply inspired the students to delve deeper into the study of Chinese and to further promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Subsequently, doctoral students of the China Studies Program took turns sharing their study and life experiences at Zhejiang University and in China, as well as their personal academic achievements. The attending faculty and students engaged in active Q&A and interaction, exchanging insights on sinology research methodologies, cross-cultural learning experiences, and reflections on scientific research. The event was marked by a lively atmosphere and in-depth academic discussions, fully demonstrating the diverse approaches and dynamic vitality of young sinology research.

Faculty-Student Interaction and Intellectual Exchange

During the exchange session, the faculty and students discussed around research directions, academic methodologies, and cross-cultural integration. Vice Dean Yi Honghui provided professional comments and guidance, encouraging young scholars to engage in profound contemplation and to advance the development of sinology research toward greater depth.

This academic salon not only showcased the academic excellence of the doctoral students in the China Studies Program but also reflected Zhejiang University's proactive efforts in cultivating young global sinologists and promoting cultural exchange. It is hoped that, taking this event as a starting point, the young sinologists at Zhejiang University will continue to deepen their research, pursue innovations, and serve as a bridge to forge a new framework for civilizational exchange between China and the world.

Source: International College of Zhejiang University