On the afternoon of May 15, Chengdu University welcomed the second batch of international students in the short-term exchange program with Prince of Songkla University at Meeting Room 1002 in the Academic Exchange Center. A total of 58 international students from the International Institute of Prince of Songkla University gathered at Chengdu University to embark on a two-month cross-cultural learning journey. The opening ceremony was attended by Vice Dean Jirameth Rungruang and Associate Professor Dr. Supachai Jaengjai from the International Institute of Prince of Songkla University, as well as key representatives from Chengdu University's Office of International Cooperation and Exchange and College of Foreign Languages and Cultures.

Li Jian, Director of the Office of International Cooperation and Exchange, said in his welcome speech that Chengdu University has always been committed to serving urban development, steadfastly implementing its internationalization strategy, and actively contributing to Chengdu's efforts in building an international exchange hub. He noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations, making the launch of this short-term program at such a significant historical milestone a vital practice for deepening cultural exchanges among the youth of both nations and fostering mutual understanding. The language courses and cultural experience activities elaborately designed by the College of Foreign Languages and Cultures will set up a bilateral learning and mutual enrichment platform for Thai and Chinese students and faculty. He believes that this learning experience will not only effectively enhance the cross-cultural communication skills of Thai students but also open a window for Chinese students to understand Thai culture, serving as an important link for expanding the international horizons of young people and strengthening Sino-Thai friendship.

Bai Yang, Dean of the College of Foreign Languages and Cultures, stated that the college is deeply committed to the university's internationalization strategy and places great importance on this Sino-Thai exchange program. Focusing on the "Language + Cross-Culture" concept, the college has tailored specialized courses for Thai students, covering Chinese language, traditional Chinese culture, and business communication, and has thoughtfully designed a variety of cultural experiences and academic exchange activities to actively build a platform for cross-cultural communication. She encouraged the students to "be diligent and eager learners as well as friendly ambassadors of Thai and Chinese cultures," to stimulate their thoughts through classroom discussions, enhance mutual understanding through campus interactions, and collaboratively write a brilliant chapter in the internationalization of education.

Jirameth Rungruang, Vice Dean of the International Institute of Prince of Songkla University, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception by Chengdu University in his remarks. He expressed his expectation that the teachers and students of the two universities would forge a sincere friendship through in-depth exchanges, and wished all the international students a fruitful and memorable experience in China, filled with knowledge, friendships, and personal growth.

Liu Xinyi, a student representative from the College of Foreign Languages and Cultures, extended sincere wishes to the Thai students, encouraging everyone to integrate into Chengdu University with an open mind and to grow through their experiences.

The international students eagerly began their academic journey at Chengdu University, expressing their wonderful anticipation of life and study in China. "We are very happy to be able to study in China," said an international student, "Chengdu University's sports facilities, classrooms, and libraries are very well-equipped, and the teachers and fellow students are very warm and patient." The international students stated that they would approach their studies with a positive attitude, strive for excellent academic performance, and make the most of this valuable experience of studying abroad.

The College of Foreign Languages and Cultures actively promotes international cooperation and exchange. Its Thai language program organizes structured exchange and internship opportunities with globally renowned overseas universities, and the Sichuan Provincial Research Institute of Thai Studies conducts Sino-Thai cultural exchanges through campus-city integration, providing talent and intellectual support for regional economic development and the Belt and Road Initiative.

In March 2024, the College of Foreign Languages and Cultures signed an exchange student cooperation agreement with the International Institute of Prince of Songkla University. According to the agreement, Thai exchange students will undertake a two-month exchange study at Chengdu University. In May 2024, Chengdu University commenced the inaugural short-term exchange class for international students from Prince of Songkla University

Editor: Min Xiuling   Executive Editor: Lv Jia