Author: HUANG Weitong, CHEN Wenwen 

Publisher: Integrated Media Center of JNU

Date: March 17, 2025

Jinan University has made history by establishing the country's first doctoral program in Chinese Studies, welcoming its inaugural class of doctoral students in September 2024. This program positions the university as a pioneer in promoting the study of Chinese culture and language on an international scale.

01.LI Jida, from Botswana

Among the first batch of students is Li Jida, an international student from Botswana, who embodies the spirit of cultural exchange and academic ambition. Upon her arrival in Jinan, she found herself surrounded by the fragrant scent of osmanthus and the vibrant colors of autumn. At the opening ceremony of the International College, Li Jida spoke on behalf of her peers, sharing their collective excitement: “Due to our strong interest and pursuit of Chinese culture, we gather at Jinan University. In the future, we will exchange and interact with international students from diverse backgrounds, fully experiencing the diverse charm of culture.”

(Li Jida)

The doctoral program adopts a small-class teaching model and offers a diverse curriculum designed to immerse students in Chinese culture. In addition to core courses, the university has planned extracurricular activities, such as visits to museums and historic temples, allowing students to engage with the rich historical context of what they study. Li Jida remarked, “Field research has given me a more intuitive and profound understanding of Chinese culture, providing fresh inspiration and insights for my academic research.”

At Jinan University, the faculty is noted for its high standards of teaching, ensuring that complex material is accessible and engaging. Li Jida expressed appreciation for the supportive environment at the university, which encourages teamwork and collaborative exploration of ideas among students.

(At the opening ceremony, Li Jida spoke as a representative of the new students.)

Li Jida’s academic journey began in 2014, when she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Chinese Studies at the University of Botswana, focusing on Chinese politics, business, language, and culture. This foundation paved the way for her master’s degree in Chinese International Education at Beijing Language and Culture University, where she expanded her understanding of global perspectives.

Drawn to Jinan University by its international atmosphere and rich cultural offerings, she recognized the significance of this premier program. For her doctoral research, Li Jida is studying overseas Chinese entrepreneurs, investigating their adaptation experiences and the challenges they face. Her goal is to provide theoretical insights and practical guidance to help these individuals integrate into local environments, thereby enhancing cultural understanding and commercial cooperation between China and Africa.

Passionate about the role of education in cultural exchange, Li Jida believes that platforms like the Confucius Institutes play a vital role in fostering partnerships between China and African nations. She emphasizes the importance of embracing cultural differences, stating, “Cultural differences are beautiful, and every country's culture has its unique features. To thrive in a diverse environment, we need to welcome and accept differences.”

As she continues her studies, Li Jida is committed to enhancing cross-cultural exchanges and contributing to a deeper understanding of Chinese business culture in Africa. Her outlook is encapsulated in her belief that a genuine understanding and trust between peoples can be achieved through sustained cultural engagement.

02. Jin Wenjing, from Nigeria

With the enchanting strains of “Jasmine Flower” resonating in the background, Jin Wenjing's captivating presence graced the screen in the “Foreign Students Watching the Bay Area” special issue of the Guangzhou Daily. Poised and articulate, her melodious Mandarin reflected four years of dedicated study in China. Now a doctoral student at Jinan University, Jin focuses on the intricate relationships among political, social, cultural, and economic factors in Chinese history. Her objective is clear: to analyze these dimensions and bring back valuable insights to Nigeria, aiding in the nation's economic planning and cultural development.

(Jin Wenjing)

Jin Wenjing's journey into the depths of Chinese culture began with a strong academic foundation. From a young age, she was determined to master the intricacies of the Chinese language, ultimately achieving HSK Level 5 certification, a testament to her commitment. Her scholastic excellence earned her a scholarship to the Beijing Institute of Technology, where her passion for Chinese studies flourished. In 2020, she shifted her focus to Jinan University, where she pursued a master's degree and subsequently became part of the inaugural cohort of doctoral students in Chinese Studies.

Studying abroad in China had long been Jin’s aspiration. She vividly recalls her undergraduate graduation, when the desire to explore the richness of Chinese culture bubbled within her. Upon arriving in China, she felt the vastness and depth of the culture, remarking, “China is like an elephant; you can only see a part, but never get a glimpse of its whole picture.”

Jin considers her time at Jinan University to be the most precious chapter of her life in China. The university has afforded her the opportunity to forge lasting friendships and immerse herself in diverse cultural exchanges. During her graduate studies, Jin collaborated with Chinese classmates in Meizhou, where they documented the Chinese tea ceremony in a short video, sharing her newfound knowledge of the art form with enthusiasm.

As she embarks on her doctoral journey, Jin Wenjing feels honored to study at Jinan University, which she refers to as the “shoulders of giants.” She believes that studying here allows her to gain deeper insights into the world while investigating China's remarkable economic transformation. “China's prosperous development achievements serve as valuable reference examples for many countries,” she asserts, expressing admiration for the dynamic intersections of history and culture.

Upon completing her doctoral studies, Jin plans to focus on fostering international relations between China and Nigeria, aiming to enhance cultural awareness and promote cooperative ventures. Her vision encompasses the deepening of cultural exchanges to facilitate mutual understanding and coordinated development between the two nations. “We live in a multicultural dimension that requires our concerted efforts to strengthen connections,” she emphasizes.

Jin Wenjing understands that the path to knowledge is fraught with challenges, stating, “You have to endure hardships. Learning is not easy. When you encounter difficulties, you must persevere. Only by persisting can you meet a better version of yourself.”

Her journey illustrates the powerful impact of cultural education and the importance of resilience in realizing one's dreams. Standing on the shoulders of Jinan University, Jin Wenjing is poised to explore new horizons, equipped with the wisdom gained from her studies and the rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped her understanding of both Chinese and Nigerian cultures.

03. Hu Qiuyan, from Vietnam

Hu Qiuyan's lifelong admiration for traditional Chinese culture has guided her academic journey and aspirations for the future. This passion prompted her to pursue a doctoral degree in Chinese Studies at Jinan University, a decision motivated by her desire to contribute significantly to the educational landscape and strengthen ties between China and Vietnam.

(Hu Qiuyan)

In her doctoral studies, Hu Qiuyan is particularly focused on exploring the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative on Sino-Vietnamese trade. She aims to conduct comparative studies of Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, intending to extract valuable insights that could inform policy and enhance bilateral relations. “I hope to merge my research interests with my advisor's guidance to further illuminate the nuances of this compelling subject,” she explains.

Once enrolled, she quickly recognized the quality of the academic programs at Jinan University. The curriculum design, characterized by its academic rigor and engaging classroom dynamics, paired with the support of professional and approachable faculty, has enriched her intellectual experience. Hu Qiuyan actively participates in various academic activities and has been involved in courses like “Special Research on Chinese History and Culture” and “Chinese Government and Politics.” Field trips to historical locations like Hualin Temple and Dashen Temple have allowed her to gain a deeper appreciation of Guangdong's historical heritage and cultural richness.

Hu Qiuyan's journey in Chinese studies is supported by her rich educational background. Having previously earned a Master’s degree in Chinese International Education in Beijing, she honed her skills in cross-cultural communication, contributing actively to discussions with classmates from diverse countries. During the pandemic, she took the initiative to use the Tencent Meeting platform to teach Chinese to her Vietnamese friends, thus bridging cultural gaps and fulfilling her ambition of becoming an educator.

She expresses her appreciation for Guangzhou, a first-tier city known for its vibrant regional culture and culinary diversity. “The exceptional academic reputation and resources at Jinan University significantly boost my aspirations in the field of education,” she said, emphasizing how this environment has supported her growth.

Upon completing her doctoral studies, Hu Qiuyan aspires to establish a Sino-Vietnamese cultural promotion center. This center aims to facilitate cultural exchanges through translation services, language training, and various collaborative projects. She envisions these efforts as a means to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Vietnam, further contributing to the promotion of Sino-Vietnamese cultural ties.

As her academic journey progresses, Hu Qiuyan remains driven by a mission rooted in passion for cultural exchange and mutual respect. “Education is the backbone of communication,” she states, highlighting her belief in the transformative power of knowledge in fostering relationships across cultures. With a clear sense of purpose, she embarks on her research, ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.

04. Guo Furui, form Uganda

Ugandan student Guo Furui, who is pursuing a doctorate in Chinese studies, is on a mission to foster closer ties between China and Africa. His journey began during his undergraduate studies in international trade in Uganda, where he developed a keen interest in Chinese culture and economy, motivating him to contribute to societal progress through academia.

(Guo Furui,the right)

After completing his bachelor's degree, Guo relocated to Beijing Normal University for a Master’s in Business Administration. A transformative summer cloud trip introduced him to Guangzhou, where he was captivated by the unique charm of the city and the development potential of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This inspired him to apply for the doctoral program in Chinese studies at Jinan University.

Upon arriving in China, Guo faced significant cultural and language barriers. However, with an open mind, he adapted quickly, finding a supportive academic environment at Jinan University. The university's interdisciplinary approach, rich academic resources, and vibrant cultural atmosphere have offered him substantial opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In addition to his studies, Guo is actively engaged in multicultural exchange initiatives. He has connected with peers from around the globe at the International Student Expo and immersed himself in traditional Chinese culture through experiences like visiting the Guangzhou Tea Village and attending Cantonese opera performances, which deepened his appreciation for the arts.

Looking forward, Guo has a strategic academic and career plan. He aims to make significant contributions to academia through rigorous research and high-quality publications, aspiring to become a university professor. Alternatively, he is also interested in pursuing a career in business or consulting, utilizing his insights into microeconomics.

Passionate about promoting cultural exchange and collaboration between China and Uganda, Guo recognizes the strong foundations already in place, exemplified by the successes of initiatives like the Confucius Institutes. He hopes to leverage his experiences to build a solid bridge for cooperation, fostering mutual understanding and trust between the two nations. Through his determined efforts, Guo Furui is writing a remarkable chapter in the narrative of cultural and academic exchanges between China and Africa.

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Introducing the Doctoral Program in Chinese Studies

The “Chinese Studies” program at Jinan University is a newly established interdisciplinary field that integrates various disciplines, including Chinese “Guoxue,” overseas “Sinology,” and “Chinese Studies.” It features five key training directions: Chinese politics, economy, law, language and literature, and history.

Launched in 2014, the Master’s Program in Chinese Studies has welcomed 79 international students from 33 countries. With ten years of accumulated experience, the International College is now offering a doctoral program dedicated to nurturing international professionals who can contribute meaningfully to Chinese research.

This program aims to deepen students' understanding of contemporary China's politics, economy, culture, and history. Our goal is to cultivate professionals who are not only knowledgeable about Chinese culture and its national context but also possess a broad international perspective, playing a significant role in advancing cultural exchange and academic research between China and other countries.