On November 20, Associate Professor Dinesh Surroop, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Resources and Planning) of the University of Mauritius, led the Mauritian delegation on a visit to Zhejiang Sci-Tech University (ZSTU), Hangzhou, China. Vice-President of ZSTU, Professor Yao Juming warmly welcomed the delegation under the banner of “Chinese Bridge” Educational Exchange Programme. The delegation, comprised of 10 members, visited ZSTU and Hangzhou from 20th to 24th Nov. The delegation included 6 representatives (Deans of Faculties and Administrative Manager) from the University of Mauritius, 3 staff from CI-UoM (Directors and Secretary) and the Director of Academy of Design and Innovation (ADI). The programme organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Mauritius aimed at promoting educational, and academic exchanges, and enhancing the delegates’ appreciation of Chinese language, culture, and society.
Professor Yao, in his opening remarks, reiterated ZSTU’s wholehearted commitments to the development of CI-UoM through the strengthening of the teaching staff at the institute, promoting cultural and knowledge transfer at faculty level, deepening academic and research exchanges among faculty and students, enhancing academic discussions, and promoting scientific collaboration.
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Dr Dinesh Surroop thanked ZSTU for its warm reception and longstanding support to the University of Mauritius and its Confucius Institute. He highly commended the work of the CI-UoM Directors in promoting exchanges between educational and academic institutions of the two countries. Both sides discussed how faculty and student exchanges could be improved, as well as future collaborations in academic research.
Delegation’s meeting at ZSTU, Nov 2025
After the meeting, the members of the delegation held interactive sessions with peers in their respective field of studies and research, and visited teaching and research facilities.
Professor Yao and Pro-VC Surroop exchanging tokens of appreciation
Group photo of the delegation in company of Professor Yao and Staff of ZSTU
The delegation also visited key cultural landmarks in Hangzhou; from the serene beauty of West Lake, the bustling streets of Hefang Street, the Grand Canal, the silk museum, to Sijiqing market. The delegation experienced Hangzhou’s natural attractions, modern infrastructure and fine cuisine. The rich history and culture, and modernity of the city left a remarkable impression on the visitors, and it allowed them to fully appreciate the essence of Hangzhou. The cultural experience was, for many, unique and unforgettable.
Visit of ZSTU’s Limping Campus, Hangzhou
Visit of the Grand Canal
Here’s what some delegates had to say:
Associate Professor, Dr Dinesh Surroop, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Resources and Planning, University of Mauritius.
“The mission to China, led under the Confucius Institute framework, aimed to strengthen academic and cultural cooperation between the University of Mauritius and its partner institutions. It provided an important platform to deepen staff and student exchanges, promote cultural exchanges and education and explore new avenues for collaboration in research and capacity building. The visit also reinforced mutual understanding and long-term institutional partnerships. The successful planning and execution of the trip to China were made possible through the strong commitment, coordination and leadership of the Director of the Confucius Institute and his team, whose efforts were instrumental in achieving the objectives and outcomes of the mission.”
Professor Boopendra Seetanah, Dean, Faculty of Law & Management, University of Mauritius
“Just to say I’m grateful to CI-uoM for this academic visit. I’ve travelled a lot for scholarly activities, over 2 dozen places, but this one remains a great and memorable one. And above all, an impressive China. Please extend my greeting to the Chinese Director and the team at ZSTU for being such a wonderful host.
Through the WTO chairs we are very keen to explore avenue of research under the BRI in aspect of trade and tourism and investment.”
Associate Professor, Dr Joyce Govinden-Soulange, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mauritius.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Directors of the Confucius Institute at the University of Mauritius, Associate Professor D. Kistamah and Associate Professor Yang Fang, as well as their dedicated Mauritian and Chinese teams, for their invaluable support in making this visit a success. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the organizers at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University for their warm hospitality, excellent coordination, and unwavering commitment to fostering meaningful academic exchange. Their thoughtful arrangements contributed greatly to the smooth and rewarding experience of this visit. My appreciation further goes to the University of Mauritius and the Confucius Institute (UoM) for providing me with this valuable opportunity.”
Mrs Ranjani Pather-Poonoosamy, Administrative Manager, University of Mauritius.
“Overall, the visit strengthened the relationship between the two universities and established a solid foundation for future cooperation in research, innovation, and academic exchange. As this was my first time in China, I was particularly impressed by the warmth and hospitality of everyone we met, both at the University and during our tours/visits. This welcoming environment contributed greatly to the overall experience and reinforced the value of continued engagement with Chinese institutions.
I also wish to express my sincere appreciation to the Confucius Institute, ZSTU and all those who contributed to the organisation of the meetings, campus tours, and visits, as well as to those who provided logistical and administrative support throughout our stay. Their professionalism, care, and constant availability significantly enhanced the quality of the visit, and I extend my deepest gratitude to each member of the team for their invaluable assistance.”
Dr Sabrina Ramsamy-Iranah, Director, Academy of Design & Innovation, Mauritius.
“My journey through China felt like stepping into a living tapestry, one woven with rivers of ancient wisdom and illuminated by the soft glow of rising dawns. Everywhere I went, from towering mountains to vibrant cities and peaceful fields, I saw a country where history and modern life come together in harmony.
The resilience of the Chinese people touched me deeply. Their warmth and positive spirit made me feel welcome at every step. In every smile and gesture, I felt the strength of a culture that has preserved its authenticity while embracing rapid technological progress with effortless grace.
China revealed itself as a place where no stone is left unturned in welcoming outsiders, a country where tradition breathes alongside innovation without losing its essence.
Special thanks to Zhejiang Sci-Tech University (ZSTU)and to the Directors and delegates from the Confucius Institute at the University of Mauritius for making this experience memorable and truly transformative.”