Students from Huaiyin Institute of Technology sing a song during the "Reading Jiangsu" program opening ceremony. [Photo provided to english.jsjyt.edu.cn]

A program designed to help international students in Jiangsu province gain a deeper understanding of the province's history and culture was launched on May 17 in the province's Huai'an city.

In its second edition, the "Reading Jiangsu" program features book reading sessions complemented by visits to four cities – Huai'an, Zhenjiang, Changzhou, and Yancheng. Participants are encouraged to become "Jiangsu's storytellers" by creating various works, such as songs, dances, recitations, videos, and photos. A presentation showcasing these creations will be held in November.

The opening ceremony at Huaiyin Institute of Technology and ensuing cultural exchange activities in Huai'an attracted 120 students from 33 universities. Some students delivered impressive performances, including poetry recitations and pipa (a traditional Chinese string instrument) performances.

Huai'an, with its rich history as a key hub along the Grand Canal, offers numerous historical sites and cultural experiences. As part of their introduction to the city, international students attended a lecture about the canal and its cultural influence on Huai'an, enjoyed a boat trip, and visited the China Water Transport Museum.

The Grand Canal experience resonated with Younes Lazreq, a Moroccan student at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications. "Morocco is the link between Africa and Europe. Lots of ships from America, Europe, and Asia gather in Morocco," he remarked, drawing parallels between his home country and Huai'an.

International students practice Baduanjin at Jiangsu College of Nursing. [Photo provided to english.jsjyt.edu.cn]

On May 18, the students visited Jiangsu College of Nursing, where they practiced Baduanjin, an ancient Chinese exercise form, and explored a training base to learn about traditional Chinese medicine. Later, they engaged with various intangible cultural heritage items, such as farmer painting, lacquer fans, and velvet flowers.

International students learn the art of creating farmer paintings. [Photo provided to english.jsjyt.edu.cn]

"The handicrafts impressed me the most," said Itri Najm Saidi from Jiangsu Normal University. "Chinese artisans take what they do very seriously, putting great efforts into it. The rest of the world should learn from this dedication."

As Huai'an is also the hometown of Zhou Enlai, China's first premier, the event included a visit to the Zhou Enlai Memorial Hall, where students learned about his values and contributions. "Zhou was wise, kind, and possessed great values, which is why everyone respects and loves him. I am interested in learning more about him and will read his biography," said Ibrahim Es-Sam from NJUPT.

Ibrahim emphasized the importance of such programs, "These activities should be held regularly because they help foreigners learn more about China's history, people, and culture."