2026 Chinese Language Summer School kicked off

The 2026 Chinese Language Summer School of Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University officially kicked off on 6th July. With an expanded enrollment scale this year, the program has gathered more than 200 international students from across the globe at the XJTLU campus in Suzhou for a four-week journey of in-depth Chinese language study and Chinese cultural exploration. Adopting a systematic graded teaching system covering beginner to advanced levels, the curriculum empowers international students to consolidate their language foundation and improve practical Chinese communication skills.

The opening ceremony was held in a warm atmosphere. Students from all countries can connect with ease. Ms. Helen Beech, Director of the Global Cultures and Languages Hub, delivered the opening address, warmly welcoming 205 students from 37 countries and regions across six continents. Then, Ms. Yang Fan and Ms. Zou Xiaowen, coordinators of the 2026 Chinese Language Summer School, introduced the course schedule and cultural activities, and presented the nine course instructors. Mr. Ge Jianping from the X-Global Office shared essential safety guidelines for students.

In the opening week, the summer school has adopted a diversified learning model combining classroom teaching and on-site cultural experience. While enhancing their comprehensive Chinese listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in immersive classes, students have actively participated in a series of well-designed featured cultural practice activities. Breaking the boundaries of traditional textbook teaching, these diverse experience courses allow students to closely experience traditional folk customs, Chinese aesthetics and the charm of Jiangnan regional culture. Students are able to perceive the essence of Chinese culture through interesting practices, realizing the integrated improvement of language proficiency and cultural cognition.

During this workshop, international students learned the techniques of making Dingsheng Cakes under the guidance of an inheritor of China's intangible cultural heritage. They experienced steps from preparing the filling, pressing the dough into molds to unmolding the finished cakes, creating beautifully shaped, delicious pastries of their own. They also learned how to package the cakes in elegant gift boxes. Through this hands-on experience, students gained a deeper appreciation of traditional Chinese craftsmanship and culinary culture, returning with their handmade creations, enriched cultural knowledge, and unforgettable memories.