On the afternoon of March 13, the Opening Ceremony and Orientation for the 2026 Spring & Summer Chinese Language Program at Zhejiang University International College was successfully held at the Yongqian Student Activity Center Theatre on Yuquan Campus. More than 500 new Chinese Language Program students from over 80 countries gathered for their first university-wide event at Zhejiang University. Dressed in the College's specially designed Year of the Horse hoodies and waving the flags of their home countries, they entered the venue amid laughter and excitement, embarking on a new chapter of their Chinese language learning journey. Representatives from the Office of Global Engagement, the Yuquan Campus Hospital, the Department of Public Physical Education and Art, and the Logistics Group attended the ceremony.

Wang Yufen, Executive Vice Dean of the International College, delivered the opening remarks. Beginning with the beauty of Hangzhou in spring, she warmly welcomed the students to the Zhejiang University community and shared her hopes for their studies and personal growth. She encouraged them to make the most of their time in Hangzhou by building friendships and embracing Chinese culture. She also offered three practical suggestions for learning Chinese: practice actively and speak with confidence; participate in cultural activities and make friends; and stay curious while enjoying learning both inside and outside the classroom. Noting that 2026 is the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, she encouraged students to begin their Chinese language journey with the horse's spirit of enthusiasm, determination, and perseverance.

Speaking on behalf of the faculty, He Yun noted that for students who had travelled across the world to study in China, learning Chinese is not simply about acquiring a language, but also about gaining a deeper understanding of China and building bridges with the world. He encouraged students to stay committed to their interests, attend classes diligently, practice consistently, and explore different cultures. He also assured them that the entire Chinese Language Teaching Center faculty would provide dedicated guidance and support throughout their studies.

Mahmoud Hazem Mahmoud Abbas from Egypt, representing current students, and Melchior Johannes Buter from Germany, speaking on behalf of the new students, shared their experiences and expectations. Having already established a foundation in Chinese, both speakers reflected on what inspired them to study the language, expressed their appreciation for China and Hangzhou, and offered practical advice for effective language learning.

Amid the inspiring melody of the Zhejiang University anthem, representatives from various administrative departments, leaders of the International College, and student representatives took to the stage to lead all new students in singing the university anthem, bringing the ceremony to a memorable climax.

At around 3:00 p.m., the orientation session officially began. Chen Weiying, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, delivered the first lecture of the semester under the theme “SMART Chinese.” She introduced the educational philosophy, curriculum design, and learning objectives of the Chinese Language Program. She emphasized that learning Chinese extends far beyond mastering pinyin and character writing—it also involves understanding the cultural values and modes of thinking embedded in the language through the study of character structure and composition. She encouraged students to cherish their time at Zhejiang University, devote themselves to learning with perseverance and focus, and let the enterprising spirit of the horse inspire their academic journey throughout the semester.

Officer Zhang Lingke from the Exit-Entry Administration Bureau of the Hangzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau delivered a session on laws, regulations, and personal safety, providing detailed guidance on residence permit and visa policies for international students in China.

Unlike previous years, this semester's opening ceremony began with a vibrant performance celebrating youthful energy and the beauty of Chinese culture. Chinese Language Program students from around the world presented songs and dances that blended Chinese cultural elements with international styles. The performance also featured special support from the Zhejiang University Tai Chi Association and the International Student Arts Group (ISAG).

As spring breathes new life into Zhejiang University, the Chinese language continues to connect people across cultures. May every new student spread their wings through knowledge, build bridges through friendship, and create unforgettable memories while beginning a rewarding journey at Zhejiang University.