From January 21 to 31, Beihang School organized the “Belt and Road” International Youth Talent China-Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador Program. Twenty-six students from different schools and colleges of Beihang University, together with one leading teacher, carried out an 11-day exchange activity in Tunisia, where they visited local enterprises and universities, conducted cultural exchanges, and devoted themselves to international public welfare undertakings, so as to disseminate Chinese culture and boost the friendship between China and Tunisia.
The year 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, and the year 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Tunisia. Located in the northernmost part of the African continent, Tunisia, with its ancient civilization and Mediterranean culture, is one of the most important countries along the Belt and Road. Students from Beihang University attended the welcome meeting in Monastir City Hall and were cordially received by the governor and mayor. During the exchange, the students visited various colleges of Monastir University, had a better understanding of the local education, and also built up a deep friendship with the local students.
During the exchange, the students visited the Ribat Fortress, the Ribat Museum, the El Jem Colosseum, the Monastir International Art Museum and other historical and cultural sites, visited the local ceramics factory and the olive oil pressing center, participated in air rifle shooting, archery, beach volleyball, Swiss soccer and other sports activities, and also sang and danced with local people in traditional Tunisian costumes, enhancing their awareness of Tunisian history and culture.
At the end of the exchange, Beihang students participated in the closing ceremony organized by the Monastir government, shared their gains from the study trip in Tunisia, expressed their praise and love for the Tunisian culture, as well as the beautiful vision of continuing the friendship with Tunisian people.
The 11-day cultural exchange program provided the students with a window to understand Tunisia and built a bridge for exchanges between the youth of China and Tunisia. In the future, students will continue efforts to cultivate their global perspectives and undertake international responsibilities as youths in the new era.
Written by: Long Yizhou
Reviewed by: Ding Ding
Edited by: Jia Aiping
Translated by: Hu Xueyang
