On September 21, NPU Kazakhstan Branch Campus, located in Almaty, Kazakhstan, welcomed over 50 new students from the class of 2024. They are about to embark on a year-long journey of study and research here, preparing themselves with language, culture, and knowledge for their upcoming studies and life in China.
As the new semester begins, elements of Chinese culture such as Chinese language, tea ceremony, Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing), and calligraphy have brought a wave of “Chinese style” to the Kazakhstan Branch Campus. Let’s take a look at the new students’ learning experiences and achievements during their first month!
“Hello, nice to meet you.”
Language is the best key to understanding a country, and a simple “Hello” can start a new friendship. In Chinese classes, students begin with pronunciation and Chinese characters, striving to improve their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. They hope to understand Chinese culture and build bridges of friendship through language.
Cultural Exchange: Understanding China
International students are vital in promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding worldwide. This semester's course on China covers fundamental aspects of the country, including China's national conditions, social life, and cultural customs. Through lectures, cultural seminars, group activities, and cultural exchanges, the course presents a “credible, lovable, and respectable” image of China, helping students gain knowledge of Chinese culture, deepen their understanding of modern Chinese and its social life, and improve their intercultural communication skills.
Second Classroom: Integrating Knowledge and Action
“Knowledge gained from books is shallow; true understanding comes from practice.” In the first month, the branch campus has organized a rich and diverse second classroom focused on Chinese culture, combining education with enjoyment. Students engaged in learning and experiencing Chinese calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and traditional clothing while listening to beautiful Chinese stories. They felt the spirit of harmony between ancient and modern traditions, enhancing their intercultural skills and broadening their international perspectives through Sino-Kazakh cultural exchange.
Learning Chinese calligraphy
Experiencing Tea Culture and the Spirit of Tea
In July 2024, during President Xi Jinping's visit to Kazakhstan, he emphasized the importance of“developing NPU Kazakhstan Branch Campus to cultivate more successors for Sino-Kazakh friendship” NPU Kazakhstan Branch Campus will continue to strengthen its teaching, research, talent cultivation, and cooperative exchanges, contributing to the cause of Sino-Kazakh friendship. We look forward to more inspiring stories unfolding at Kazakhstan Branch Campus and the deepening of beautiful Sino-Kazakh friendships!
Source: International College
Translator: Mei Leyun