To listen to international students’ voices on campus and support their growth and success, the university hosted a face-to-face forum themed “Talking About Growth” between university leaders and international students in China at the University Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center on the morning of July 6. Chen Yiwang, Secretary of the University Party Committee, attended the event. Hu Yuanchun, Member of the Standing Committee of the University Party Committee and Director of the Publicity Department, together with heads of the Party and Administrative Office, Student Affairs Office, International Affairs Office, the School of International Education, and representatives of international students, participated in the forum.

Chen Yiwang extended a warm welcome to the international students who traveled across mountains and seas to study here. In view of international students’ growth and development, he put forward three expectations for them. First, strive to master professional knowledge and hone capabilities to contribute to the development of their home countries. Second, deeply experience Chinese culture and take the initiative to tell authentic stories about China. Third, uphold cultural exchange and mutual learning, and serve as a bridge for friendly exchanges between China and foreign countries. He stated that the university will continue to improve logistical and academic support for international students, acting as a solid backing for their studies in China.

At the forum, international student representatives from various countries sincerely shared their experiences and insights of studying in China. They talked about the difficulties encountered in language, diet and culture when they first arrived in China, and discussed the independence, inclusiveness and broader horizons they have gained here. They also raised questions to university leaders regarding differences in campus life between China and their home countries and the impacts of overseas study experience on personal development. Chen Yiwang patiently answered their questions, creating a lively interactive atmosphere on site.

This forum has brought university leaders and international students closer and enabled international students to fully feel the warmth of the university community. It serves as an important initiative of the university to care for international students and advance the brand development of "Study at Gannan Normal University".