Participants of SISU's Shanghai Summer School programs take a group photo. [Photo/SISU]

Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) welcomed this year's foreign participants of its four Shanghai Summer School programs with an opening ceremony on July 8.

This year, the four programs, designed for foreign students from Spanish-speaking countries, Middle Eastern countries, Russia, and countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, respectively, attracted 95 students from 23 countries. 

In his speech at the opening ceremony, Professor Lu Qinning, deputy dean of the School of Chinese Studies and Exchange, welcomed the foreign students, encouraging them to immerse themselves in their studies, explore Shanghai and China with curiosity, and embrace cultural diversity. 

Chinese language teacher Han Mengling introduced the course content and motivated students to strive for continuous improvement. A Portuguese student shared her personal connection with China and expressed her expectations for the upcoming four weeks of Chinese language learning and cultural exploration.

During the program, students will take Chinese language and culture courses, participate in experiential projects on traditional Chinese culture, attend lectures on Chinese society and diplomacy, explore local culture, and learn calligraphy and paper cutting. They will also visit local families to experience daily life in Shanghai.