Foreign students immerse themselves in mid-autumn festivities

A group of international students from Ningbo University participate in the Mid-Autumn Festival celebration with locals. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

International students from various countries, including Morocco and Yemen, gathered recently at Ningbo University to celebrate the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival through cultural activities. Co-organized by the university's Business School and Pan Tianshou College of Architecture and Design, the event was part of the "Walking Cultural Classroom" series.

The event commenced with a display of festival-themed paintings and a captivating performance titled "Memories of Mid-Autumn Festival". Dressed in traditional hanfu, actors immersed the audience in the essence of the festival's traditions. A lantern riddle contest followed, sparking excitement among participants.

A highlight was the mooncake-making session guided by instructor Fan Chuyue. Bangladeshi student Hossain Amzad praised his creation as "chewy and delicious" while posing for photos with classmates. Moroccan student Safae Fellahi drew parallels between the Mid-Autumn Festival and Eid al-Adha celebrations in her country.

Safae Fellahi, a Moroccan business management student, said: "While Morocco doesn't celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival, the festivities reminded me of Eid al-Adha, when families gather for feasts and festivities."

Launched in 2023, the "Walking Cultural Classroom" series by the business school aims to enhance international students' understanding of Chinese culture through diverse activities. With nearly 10 sessions attracting over 100 students from 15 countries, participants engage in activities such as exploring intangible cultural heritage, farming experiences, tourism, and cultural lectures.