In June, Hangzhou is filled with the fragrance of lotus and lush greenery. Recently, International College successfully hosted a short-term study tour programme for 30 teachers and students from La Salle-Universidad Ramon Llull, Spain. This marked the first visit by a delegation from La Salle–Universidad Ramon Llull to Zhejiang University. Although the programme lasted only one week, it featured a rich and rewarding schedule, marking a promising beginning for youth exchanges between China and Spain.

The successful implementation of this this programme reflects the deepening educational cooperation between Zhejiang University and La Salle–Universidad Ramon Llull. At the beginning of the semester, International College welcomed a delegation led by the President and the Director of its International Office. During the visit, both sides held in-depth discussions on future cooperation and agreed on the framework and key components of the programme. Following several rounds of discussions and meticulous preparation, the week-long exchange programme finally came to fruition.

To help the Spanish participants gain a comprehensive understanding of China, International College has carefully designed a programme combining academic lectures, practical visits and cultural experiences.

During the academic session, the delegation attended five high-quality lectures. Professor Guo Hongdong and Professor Wang Zhengxu from the School of Public Affairs were invited to deliver lectures on E-commerce and rural poverty reduction, China’s social and political system, broadening participants' academic perspectives. The remaining three lectures were delivered by International College faculty specializing in Chinese language education. Drawing on their areas of expertise, they introduced China's socioeconomic development from multiple perspectives, providing participants with a vivid understanding of contemporary China.

During the field visits, the delegation visited three representative companies in Hangzhou, including DEEP Robotics, Merit Interactive Co.,Ltd. and Alibaba. From robotics t innovation to digital technologies, the participants gained first-hand insights into Hangzhou’s achievements in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and digital economy.

The delegation also visited the Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings, where they experienced the unique charm of traditional Chinese art and aesthetics.

Despite the busy schedule, International College has also arranged a cultural tour of Jiangnan for the participants. They explored the ancient water towns, appreciating the peaceful scenery of the ancient buildings and traditional wooden boats. They also spent half a day strolling around West Lake, enjoying the harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Although the tour was short, the elegance and charm of Jiangnan still left a lasting impression on these young visitors from Spain.

The successful completion of this short-term programme marks a new starting point for deeper educational cooperation between ZJU and Spanish universities. It also lays a solid foundation for more substantial and long-term faculty and student exchange programmes in the future. Looking ahead, International College will continue to create more opportunities for young people from China and Europe to learn from one another and strengthen mutual understanding, allowing the stories of China to be shared through meaningful intercultural exchanges.

Text：Xu Xiaohang

Photo：ICSNMC