"China Academy" LEAP Global Summer Program Kicks off!

"China Academy" LEAP Global Summer Program officially opened on August 12. 22 students from U.S. and Italy, together with 11 students from Zhejiang University, participated in the LEAP Global Summer Program at the International Campus, Zhejiang University. Professor ZHOU Jianghong, Vice President of Zhejiang University(ZJU), and Professor LI Hanying, Dean of the International Campus, addressed at the opening ceremony. Professor WANG Yufen, Executive Vice Dean of the International College of ZJU, and Professor LI Lu, Assistant Director of the Office of Global Engagement of ZJU attended the ceremony.

Professor ZHOU Jianghong extended warm congratulations on the opening of the LEAP Global Summer Program. He pointed out that Zhejiang University, as a higher learning institution with a sense of social responsibility and a global vision, had achieved remarkable results in students education and networking, cultural inheritance and exchange, national strategic technology progress and global technological innovation. He stated that the LEAP program is an important platform to boost cultural exchanges among the youth worldwide and build the "Study in China" brand, in addition to helping the participants build a more complete picture about China, gain a deeper understanding of China, and acquire more profound insights into China. He encouraged the participants to actively engage in all the courses, field visits and cultural experiences; to challenge themselves, exchange ideas, and inspire each other; and to jointly explore global challenges addressing, cultural exchanges promoting, and world peace and development.

Professor LI Hanying extended a heartfelt welcome to the professors and students participating in the LEAP Program and expressed sincere gratitude to all staffs and volunteers. He pointed out that Zhejiang University, partnering with other world-leading universities on the International Campus, is committed to cultivating top-notch innovative students with "national identity, international vision, global competitiveness, and worldwide accountability". Since its establishment 5 years ago, Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS), has made remarkable headways in forging a technology-driven premier global business school. With a diverse yet inclusive culture, ZIBS has attracted more than 800 students of diverse cultural backgrounds, with 42% being international students. He encouraged the participants to immerse deeply in the Chinese language and culture, and enhance communications and mutual trust. 

Professor WU Julian, Director of the Chinese Program of Western Washington University, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organizers for making the program possible and to the students for their active participation. He pointed out that the LEAP program attracts the participation of the young students from both countries, promotes Sino-U.S. friendship, and creates an opportunity to experience the profoundness and extensiveness of Chinese civilization. He hoped that the Chinese and international students would enjoy the 2-week immersive learning, and spark innovation through a collision of hearts and a fusion of cultures.

Representatives of Chinese and international students also delivered remarks during the opening ceremony. CHEN Yuqing, an undergraduate majoring in translation from the School of International Studies, Zhejiang University, said, "LEAP has built us a bridge to connect different countries and cultures of the East and West. I am looking forward to team collaborations with other students. This cultural exchange, I believe, will help foster a deeper mutual understanding and a closer bond of friendship between us." Benjamin Lewis said, "Among the participants of the LEAP program, some want to travel in China, some hope to find new job opportunities, and still others, like me, show much interest in Chinese literature and culture. But we share one thing in common: we all want to experience China's charm and enhance communication in person. I'm looking forward to that."

QU Haidong, Vice Dean of the International Campus, moderated the opening ceremony. SHEN Li, Assistant Dean of ZIBS, presented a briefing on LEAP Global Summer Program. Representatives of the relevant departments of the International Campus, faculty and staff, as well as students also attended the opening ceremony. 

"China Academy" LEAP Global Summer Program, first launched by Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS) in 2023, aims to boost cultural exchanges among the youth worldwide and build the "Study in China" brand through language learning, cultural exchange, academic exploration, and practical experience. This program is selected as recommended programs of "Young Envoys Scholarship" of Ministry of Education of R.R.C. in 2024.