Participants of the 2024 Shanghai Summer School (BRICS Program) share their thoughts at the opening ceremony. [Photo/fddi.fudan.edu.cn]

The 2024 Shanghai Summer School (BRICS Program), a flagship BRICS higher education cooperation project, commenced at Fudan University on July 8.

This year, the program received about 300 applications and selected 35 students and scholars from well-known universities and research institutes in Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new member countries.

The BRICS Research Center at the Fudan Development Institute meticulously designed this program. The curriculum includes three modules: Chinese Politics and Diplomacy, Global Governance and BRICS Cooperation, and Joyful Shanghai, with 14 academic courses taught by professors and experts from BRICS countries. The program emphasizes enhancing the participants' international perspectives, cross-cultural communication skills, and understanding of diverse cultures.

Cultural activities are integrated into the program, offering insights into Chinese and Shanghai culture through organized excursions to institutions, like the New Development Bank (NDB), and surrounding cities.

Martha, from Brazil, said that she believes the knowledge provided by this program is vital for realizing her aspirations of helping Brazil, China, and other BRICS countries establish and maintain friendly relations. She expressed gratitude for this learning opportunity and looks forward to learning from distinguished teachers, interacting with classmates from diverse backgrounds, and experiencing China's rich culture.

Nina from Russia, engaged in carbon pricing research, looks forward to understanding the details of carbon policies in BRICS countries and information on their economies and diplomacy, especially regarding national tax systems. She also hopes to make friends with people from different countries, potentially collaborate on research, explore Shanghai, deepen her understanding of Chinese culture, and improve her Chinese language skills.