Foreign students gain insight into Chinese culture through university lectures

The International Cultural Exchange School of the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics held a series of lectures from May to June to help its international students improve their Chinese proficiency and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

For example, a lecture titled "Appreciation of Chinese-style Lyrics" introduced the kind of lyrical compositions and melodic characteristics of Chinese-style songs, as well as the Chinese history and cultural knowledge behind the lyrics for the benefit of international students.

A student from South Korea who attended the lecture said, "Although I don't know much about Chinese poetry, I like classical Chinese poetry because when I listen to others read it aloud or read it myself, I feel that it is beautifully written and orderly. Through the lecture, I realized that many modern songs that incorporate poetry have a strong traditional Chinese style, and both the lyrics and the singing method can show the charm of traditional Chinese culture."

Wang Liansheng's lecture on traditional Chinese food culture focused on the intricacies of regional cuisine.

"After listening to the lecture, I felt the richness of Chinese food culture. The eight major cuisines in China have their distinct features. Only a country with a deep cultural heritage and a vast territory like China can have such a wonder," said one student from South Africa.

It is often said that architecture is living history. The "Ladislav Hudec and His Architecture in Shanghai" lecture introduced the architectural works designed by Hudec in Shanghai, explored the imprint of the lives of Shanghainese people a hundred years ago, and led students to understand Shanghai's culture and inclusive urban spirit from another perspective.

"By observing Hudec 's architecture, I was deeply impressed by his unique insight into design and his deep understanding of the urban environment. His architectural works have become iconic landmarks in the city, highlighting Shanghai's status as an international metropolis." said one student from Burma.

“In some projects in Shanghai, he has successfully combined traditional cultural elements with modern design, showing respect for the past and a vision for the future. Through his architectural works, we can feel the prosperity and innovation of Shanghai as an international city, and at the same time experience the beauty and inspiration brought by architectural art," the student added.