Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) hosted a departure ceremony for its students attending an overseas internship program on June 30.

The program, themed on “Global Civilization and Youth Responsibility", marks the first of its kind among Chinese universities, with a focus on international internships and practical experience. It offers self-nominated projects by faculty members from various disciplines and is open to all BFSU students.

The university is sending 43 teams consisting of more than 500 teachers and students to participate in internships and practical projects across five continents.

Yang Dan, president and deputy secretary of the CPC BFSU committee, speaks at the departure ceremony on June 30. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

In his speech titled "Embracing Global Missions and Displaying China's Image", Yang Dan, president and deputy secretary of the CPC BFSU committee, called on BFSU students to cherish the opportunity for overseas internships and sharpen their skills, thus contributing to the diversity of human languages.

Aside from promoting China's traditional culture, the Global Civilization Initiative and enhancing international understanding, Yang encouraged them to adopt a collaborative approach in global governance, conduct pragmatic research, and advance BFSU's ideals and values on the world stage.

Wang Xiandong, an official from the CRCC, speaks at the departure ceremony on June 30. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

Speaking at the ceremony, Wang Xiandong, an official from the China Railway Construction Corporation Limited (CRCC), commended the initiative as a valuable opportunity for foreign language students to gain practical experience, laying a solid foundation for their future studies and careers.

He expressed the CRCC's willingness to further collaborate with BFSU and provide more such opportunities for students at the university.

Pan Zhongming, deputy secretary-general of China Daily, speaks at the departure ceremony on June 30. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

Pan Zhongming, deputy secretary-general of China Daily, encouraged students to broaden their horizons during their internships, spread China's voice through practical activities and volunteer services, and enhance their comprehensive capabilities through the program.

Project leaders of the overseas internship program speak at the departure ceremony on June 30. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

Faculty members leading specific projects also shared their insight. Wang Jianbin, leader of "Germany’s Understanding of the Belt and Road Initiative" project, stressed the importance of young people using their experience to understand and appreciate different cultures and contribute their academic research to the world.

Ning Qiang, project leader to investigate the diverse ethnic arts and cultures of countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), highlighted the significance of fostering people-to-people exchanges in improving state-to-state relations.

Overseas internships and practical projects will enable BFSU teachers and students to gain insight into the economies, cultures and societies of countries involved in the BRI and to enhance their overall qualities and international perspectives, while also forging friendships and partnerships, according to Ning.

Team members of the overseas internship program speak at the departure ceremony on June 30. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

The overseas internship program provides students with the opportunity to understand other countries' cultures, and communicate with young people from different civilizations. It opens the door to a broader world, enhances students’ language proficiency and helps them explore minds from different nationalities while conveying China's voice through interviews and interactions, said team members involved in the program.