Tianjin University International Cultural Festival 2024 commenced on Weijin Road Campus of Tianjin University.

Spanning two days, the International Cultural Festival of this year brought together thousands of international students from 40 countries, along with teachers, students, and visitors, to revel in the vibrant cultural expo.

The International Cultural Festival of Tianjin University, a significant cultural event, has been held for 14 years since its inception in 2007. It is hailed as the “Tianjin University Expo” eagerly anticipated by students and faculty alike.

“The International Cultural Festival promotes our internationalization strategy and strengthens international exchanges and cooperation. This event provides students and faculty with invaluable opportunities to firsthand experience international diversity, fostering a rich and diverse campus culture. Moreover, it significantly contributes to the promotion of friendly exchanges between Chinese and international youth,” said Li Qiang, Dean of the School of International Education of Tianjin University.

At Peiyang Square of Tianjin University’s Weijin Road Campus, a vibrant tapestry of cultures unfolded as thousands of international students from 40 countries meticulously set up booths exhibiting their culture and heritages.

Among them, Russian girls, adorned in resplendent traditional custom, glided gracefully to spirited melodies, radiating an aura of vitality and charm. Their elaborate facial paintings, masterfully crafted, inviting the audience to partake in interactive experiences.

Meanwhile, booths representing Southeast Asian countires including Thailand, Myanmar, and Vietnam tantalized the senses with a rich array of culinary delights. From the refreshing Thai milk tea to the coconut-infused Burmese noodles and the tangy Vietnamese rice noodles, the offerings captured the hearts of students, faculty, and tourists alike. Particularly captivating was Myanmar’s intricate thanaka face paintings and the traditional Thai costume experiences, which garnered widespread acclaim.

Honduran students embellished their booth with their nation’s distinctive checkered fabric and showcased exquisite traditional handicrafts. They also shared the unique connotations and stories behind them. Their presentation captivated many listeners and participants.

The Malaysian students’ booth was a visual feast. Alongside a Batik wax dyeing experience, a traditional costume fashion show, a handicraft exhibition, and offered specialty drinks and snacks, they also arranged for traditional and ancient body painting called “Henna,” allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Malaysia’s rich and diverse ethnic colors. The beautifully vibrant designs created by these students were particularly captivating. They symbolized heartfelt blessings for the friendship between the two countries, and added a touch of elegance and cultural depth to the Festival.

“This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. Through this activity, we aim to promote friendly exchanges between the two countries and further strengthen our traditional friendship,” expressed Chen Jinyong, a Malaysian student from the College of Management and Economics at Tianjin University. “I have long had a dream of studying at Tianjin University. Being here, I continuously capture the beautiful moments of my academic journey with my camera. In the future, I aspire to continue promoting Chinese culture through my photos and videos, promoting greater participation of Malaysian students in the cultural exchanges facilitated by the Belt and Road Initiative and perpetuating this profound friendship.”

The event at Peiyang Square was a spectacular showcase of song and dance performances, cultural and creative designs, folk customs experiences, and food tasting. The cultural experiences and genuine enthusiasm from around the world elicited continuous applause, transforming the event site into a grand stage for cultural exchange and integration, and the convergence of international friendships. And the addition of a “Post Office Zone” to the Festival of this year adds a heartwarming touch. International students can stamp exclusive seals for the “Tianjin University International Cultural Festival” and “TJU’s 70th Anniversary Celebration of International Education” on custom-made postcards. They can write heartfelt blessings to their family and friends overseas and send these postcards, brimming with “Tianjin University’s affection,” over the world.

Jin Xuan, Secretary of the Party Committee of the School of International Education of Tianjin University, highlighted, “Tianjin University embarked on the education of international students in 1954, establishing itself as one of the earliest universities in China to welcome and educate international students. This year commemorates the 70th anniversary of Tianjin University’s commitment to educating international students in China. In 2023, we accommodated 3,600 students from 134 countries. Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our dedication to positioning Tianjin University as a premier destination for exceptional young individuals overseas who seek to pursue studies in China. We are resolute in our commitment to shoulder this significant responsibility and contribute substantially to the development of a community with a shared future for mankind.”

By Xie Qingyue

Editor: Sun Xiaofang