LTS students visit SIP One-stop Service Centre

What is learned from books is somewhat superficial. To seek a pragmatic guiding path, one must take a broad view of practice. As AI propels the digital-intelligence transformation of language services and globalization intensifies the need for interdisciplinary 'translation + vertical sector' talents, how can translation students sharpen their competitive edge? On May 16th, 2023 and 2024 cohorts from XJTLU BA Translation and Interpreting programme visited SIP One-stop Service Centre for Expats (hereafter referred to as “the Center”), experiencing the front-line scenarios of foreign-related services and exploring breakthrough strategies to thrive in the AI era.

Ms. Chen Liangqiong and Ms. Wu Xuezi from the Center warmly received BA TRI students and teachers. They introduced the Center's primary functions as a comprehensive platform for foreign-related services, and showcased the daily working areas along with their corresponding services. We learned that the Centre, serving as a crucial portal, provides convenient and efficient government affairs services and life services for foreign expats. It is equipped with an integrated and information-based service mechanism, and is operated with meticulous and hospitable staff, thus improving the service convenience and conveying the heartiness of Chinese people and a homely feel to expats. Additionally, the Centre is dedicated to promoting cultural exchanges. It frequently organizesvarious events, such as the cultural salon, to showcase the charm of different cultures and foster mutual understanding. Furthermore, the Centre cooperates extensively with universities, research institutes, enterprises, and international tourist attractions, providing rich and comprehensive international information to continuously inject new momentum into SIP's international development.

The Centre has established a close collaborative relationship with the Department of Literary and Translation Studies at HSS. The two sides recently completed a bilingual signage translation consultancy project for SIP, providing professional advice on optimizing SIP's international language environment.

Wang Yinuo from the Class of 2024 noted that, his previous impression of foreign affairs solely focused on diplomatic work, and this visit has broadened his horizon. He emphasized that to excel in foreign affairs roles, it is essential to cultivate an international perspective, consistently enhance communication skills and professionalism.

The Center has also invited Mr. Wu Guodong, a senior translation expert, to deliver a seminar titled “Thriving as a Translator in the AI Era”for BA TRI students. With over 20 years of translation experience, Mr. Wu has provided translation services for high caliber clients such as CCTV, the Turkish Embassy in China, and government departments of Suzhou.

Mr. Wu started his talk by analyzing critical data from the newly released report on the development of China’s translation industry in 2024, stressing that AI is reshaping the industry and translators should adapt to this trend and seek ways to navigate the challenges. He highlighted the importance of four core competences, including language insight, technology adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and creative writing skills. He advised translation students to make informed use AI and collaborate with it; to continuously update their language and knowledge reserves to become versatile talent; to seek practical opportunities and practice consistenly; and to reflect on mistakes and reinforce ourselves from failures. Moreover, Mr. Wu generously shared memorable moments in his career path, through which he encouraged students to be bold in exploration and strive for excellence.

This visit resonated with the students and sparked deep reflection. The expansion of openness and the iteration of technologies have brought new opportunities and challengesfor service professionals. In the era of AI, translation students should embrace these challenges, focus on enhancing their professional skills and career qualities, and actively adapt to the new trends of technology-enhanced translation, striving to become versatile talents that meet international demands.

Contributor: Department of Literary and Translation Studies
New Media: Ruoling Li
Proofread: Wan Hu, Zhiwei Han, Yiyi Gu