The vibrant spirit of global harmony was on full display last Saturday as Jiangsu University hosted its 16th International Culture Festival. The event, themed "Connecting Civilizations with Harmony," transformed the campus into a lively global village, drawing students and visitors from across the world to celebrate cultural diversity.
The festival served as a colorful tapestry of international exchange. Students from dozens of countries and regions, including members from Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, set up elaborate booths showcasing their unique heritage. Visitors were treated to a sensory journey, sampling traditional cuisines, admiring handicrafts, trying on national costumes, and enjoying dynamic cultural performances that ranged from folk dances to martial arts demonstrations.
"This festival is more than just a display; it's a bridge," said one participating student from the School of Overseas Education. "We're not just showing our culture; we're sharing stories and building friendships. It makes our campus feel like a true international community." The event highlights the growing emphasis within Asian higher education on fostering cross-cultural understanding and preparing students for a globally interconnected future.
For the many international students at Jiangsu University, the festival is a cherished opportunity to share a piece of home while immersing themselves in the rich cultural landscape of the Chinese mainland. Simultaneously, it offers local students and residents a convenient and engaging window to the world, promoting mutual respect and appreciation.
As a major annual event, the International Culture Festival has become a signature feature of Jiangsu University's academic calendar, consistently reinforcing the values of openness, inclusion, and shared learning. This year's successful gathering underscores the ongoing importance of such cultural dialogues in strengthening people-to-people bonds across Asia and beyond.
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Cultures converge at Jiangsu University's international festival
cgtn.com
