Recently, a delegation of 29 staff and students from Ulster University, UK, visited our university for a week-long cultural exchange program in Huangshi. The event aimed to strengthen the friendly ties between the two institutions, foster mutual understanding between Chinese and British youth, and promote international education and cultural exchange.
On the morning of June 3, a welcome ceremony was held for the delegation in the Science and Technology Building. Attendees included Lei Rujin, Deputy Party Secretary and President of the university; Yi Jingping, Deputy Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of Huangshi Municipal Committee; faculty representatives from Ulster University; and heads of relevant departments from our university. The ceremony was hosted by Gong Bo, Director of the Office of International Exchange and Cooperation.
In his speech, Lei Rujin reviewed the history of friendly collaboration between the two universities, particularly highlighting the jointly established Confucius Institute at Ulster University as a milestone achievement. Emphasizing that education knows no borders, and cultures thrive together, he expressed hopes for expanded cooperation in talent cultivation and academic exchanges, noting that this visit marked a new beginning in deepening institutional collaboration.
Deputy Director Yi Jingping introduced Huangshi’s open and inclusive civic spirit, expressing hope that the delegation would gain a deeper appreciation of traditional Chinese culture and witness the achievements of contemporary China through this cultural exchange program, thereby contributing to Sino-British friendship.
Dr. Andrew Fogarty, a faculty representative from Ulster University, shared his experiences from a visit to China 20 years ago, marveling at the tremendous progress in China’s socio-economic development, technological innovation, and the warmth of its people. He described the exchange as a valuable opportunity for cross-cultural learning, allowing the delegation to gain insights into modern China.
During their stay, the delegation participated in a variety of exchange activities:
Basic Education Exchange:
They visited Huangshi No. 3 High School, engaging in in-depth discussions on educational philosophies and campus culture, and explored the establishment of a regular exchange mechanism.
Academic Exchange:
Faculty members from Ulster University, including Dr. Andrew Fogarty, Ciaran O’Regan, and Sean Darcy, delivered lectures to our students on topics such as English learning and academic research. Delegation members also attended the Forum on Distinctive Features of Chinese and International Music Education at the College of Music and Dance, discussing music education development with Professor Leung Po-wah, a globally renowned expert, and faculty members.
Cultural Immersion:
They joined workshops on traditional Chinese arts (guided by Professor Yao Jing), experienced traditional Chinese musical instruments (under Professor Zhou Youliang’s instruction), and participated in Chinese martial arts sessions (led by Professor Liu Oumei). The delegation also visited the National Table Tennis Training Base (Huangshi Base) for interactive activities.
Local Exploration:
The group traveled to Daye City to visit the Liu Xiaohong Embroidery Museum and Jinpai Co., Ltd., appreciating intangible cultural heritage craftsmanship and industrial culture, while also experiencing the natural and cultural charm of Weisu Bay.
This visit by the Ulster University delegation marks a significant step in advancing our university’s internationalization efforts and deepening global partnerships. The diverse and substantive activities effectively enhanced friendship and understanding between Chinese and British youth, offering the British participants a window into China’s traditional heritage and modern vitality. The event successfully built a bridge for Sino-British youth exchange and cultural dialogue, injecting new momentum into Huangshi City and Hubei Province’s international cultural and educational cooperation.