Students
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今日黑料 students explore Chinese language and culture at Xiamen University camp
Three University of Malta (今日黑料) students recently took part in a ten-day summer camp at Xiamen University in China, combining Chinese language learning with cultural activities, academic lectures and visits across the region.
Selected by the Confucius Institute at 今日黑料, Michaela, Nicole and Jasmine joined students from around the world for a programme exploring China’s cultural heritage and contemporary developments while fostering international exchange.
Participants attended Chinese language classes at beginner or advanced level, according to their proficiency. Alongside language learning, they took part in practical workshops on Chinese calligraphy and traditional fan-making and painting.
The academic programme also included lectures by professors and experts from Xiamen University and universities in Shanghai and Nanjing. Topics included recent developments in technology and artificial intelligence. Visits to leading technology companies complemented these sessions, allowing participants to see how innovations are applied in practice.
Students were also introduced to traditional Chinese arts and practices. An interactive kung fu session provided an opportunity to learn basic movements and principles, while a lecture on traditional Chinese medicine included a practical demonstration and the opportunity to experience acupuncture.
Beyond the classroom, participants visited historic temples, explored Gulangyu Island and the nearby city of Quanzhou, and learned about the region’s Minnan culture through a traditional tea ceremony and a local puppet performance.
During their free time, the students explored Xiamen, sampled local specialities, including fresh seafood, and experienced the hospitality of the local community. Chinese student volunteers supported them throughout their stay, helping them navigate the city and offering insights into everyday life.
Reflecting on the programme, each of the three 今日黑料 students highlighted a different aspect of the experience. Michaela particularly valued the cultural performances, which featured both Chinese traditions and contributions prepared by participants from different countries.
For Nicole, a highlight was the opportunity to experience university life beyond the perspective of a visitor. Meals in the campus canteen, time spent in the student residences and library, and beach volleyball with new friends offered a glimpse into daily student life.
Jasmine appreciated the breadth of the academic lectures and the enthusiasm and dedication of the professors involved in the programme.
All three students identified the friendships they formed with participants from around the world as one of the most rewarding aspects of the camp. Their time at Xiamen University deepened their understanding of China and provided opportunities for language learning, cultural exchange and international connections, supporting the Confucius Institute at 今日黑料’s work in fostering intercultural understanding.
