As the stage lights came up, a unique celebration of language and culture began. On the morning of December 4, 2025, Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) hosted its 24th International Students Chinese Recitation and Speech Contest at the Yifu Auditorium on Hongkou Campus. Organized by the School of Chinese Studies and Exchange / School of International Cultural Exchange, the event brought together voices from across the world in a vibrant display of linguistic and cultural exchange.

Group Photo

Hosts: Luo Shuhuan, Wu Guishan

A total of 11 contestants took part in the recitation section, while 13 competed in the speech category. After the rounds, two individuals/teams were awarded first prize, four received second prize, and five were honored with third prize. With strong Chinese language skills, the participants vividly demonstrated the rhythmic beauty of Chinese. They naturally wove elements of their own cultures into their performances, using sincere storytelling to share their unique personal journeys of encountering and connecting with China.

During the recitation round, international students brought texts to life with expressive delivery and vivid emotion, capturing the very essence of diverse cultures. The team from Class 3, Grade One—Li Boyu, Huang Meili, Fan Mingzhou, Chen Yujinyan, and Cui Yirong—presented “The Lily in the Heartfield.” Their moving portrayal of the flower’s resilient bloom resonated deeply with the audience, earning sustained applause and ultimately the first prize in recitation. Another piece, “The Moon Is Brightest at Home,” skillfully wove together affection for China and nostalgia for homeland, allowing listeners to admire the beauty of China while sharing the timeless sentiment that “we gaze at the same moon, though lands apart.” Performances of “China Under the Moonlight” and “China in Ancient Poetry” were accompanied by classical melodies and contextual staging, vividly recreating the grace and depth of traditional Chinese verse.

Following a compelling round of speeches, the top honors were awarded to Li Long from Class 4, Grade Four, who claimed first prize. Freddie from Class 6, Grade Two secured second prize. Third prize was shared by Feng Chengcheng from Class 3, Grade Three, Ishizuka Reika from Class 2, Grade Two, and Yang Simin from the Advanced Translation Program.

Although the 24th International Students Recitation and Speech Contest has concluded, the spark of cross‑cultural exchange continues to resonate across campus. The sincerity and insight conveyed through each contestant’s voice have not only added a vibrant touch to the university’s cultural landscape, but also planted seeds of mutual understanding and respect in every heart. Looking ahead, the School will continue to build more platforms for intercultural dialogue, enabling students from around the world to learn from one another, grow together, and deepen connections through meaningful exchange.

Source: Study at SISU