To help international students gain a deeper understanding of China's reform and opening-up, including its history, achievements, and global impact, the International College organized a 6-day experience learning program from July 7 to 12, 2025. Students from 14 countries visited Xiaogang Village in Anhui Province and Shenzhen City in Guangdong Province, combining theoretical study with real-world experiences.
The program had three clear phases: learning, seeing rural changes, and exploring city development. It started at the East Campus where students watched a documentary and attended a lecture by Professor Li Jiashu on "How China's Reform Began." He explained the historical background of the reforms, with a particular focus on Xiaogang Village and Shenzhen, which laid a solid foundation for the students' upcoming field visits.
At Xiaogang Village—the birthplace of China's rural reforms—students stepped into the historic farmhouse where 18 villagers revolutionized agriculture by pressing red fingerprints onto a landmark pledge. They then examined an exhibition detailing how local leader Shen Hao dedicated his efforts to developing the community. Through visits to the Modern Agricultural Area and Xiaogang Cultural Square, students witnessed how decades-old reforms materialized as thriving modern farms and vibrant community spaces—a decisive shift from past hardship to present prosperity.
Next, the students flew to Shenzhen, China's leading city in reform and opening-up. At the Shenzhen Reform and Opening-up Exhibition Hall, the "Great Tides Surge Along the Pearl River" exhibit used historical materials and modern displays to show the full story of Guangdong and Shenzhen's pioneering reforms and their impressive achievements. Visits to the Shenzhen Contemporary Art and Urban Planning Museum and Shenzhen Museum allowed students to see the young city's strengths in technology innovation, cultural growth, and urban development.
A special highlight was the industry-academia collaboration: a tour of BYD global headquarters in Shenzhen. Students learned about the history of BYD at its museum, saw advanced technologies in new energy vehicles and rail transit at the showroom, and even had the opportunity to experience a test drive. This gave them direct insight into the capabilities of Chinese companies in global technology competition. Finally, at the Huaqiangbei Museum, students discovered the market energy and innovative spirit of this "top electronics marketplace" in China.
By connecting three key locations—Hefei for theoretical learning, Xiaogang for rural reform, and Shenzhen for urban innovation—this program offered students a comprehensive perspective on China's reform journey. It helped students better understand China's development path and built cultural connections. The International College will continue creating innovative, hands-on learning programs about China for international students.
