Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius (CI-UoM) launched the 2025 “Students’ Exchange Programme on 13th June. 13 students were selected to visit our partner University in China, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University (ZSTU) located in Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang Province.
The pre-departure briefing of the Exchange Programme was also held on 13th June. The delegation of students was headed by CI teacher Dr Xue Yajun and they departed on 14th June for a two-week trip to ZSTU. The exchange programme aimed at giving the students an opportunity to experience student’s life in China, discover the culture through experiences, hone their language skills for improved Mandarin communication, and establish networks with peers in China.
Below are extracts of the students’ experiences of the exchange programme:
“Going to China was truly a dream come true. From the moment I arrived, everything felt surreal —like stepping into a movie. Even now, the whole experience feels like a beautiful dream I wish I could relive. China’s beauty went far beyond my expectations and every day brought something new and exciting. What touched me the most was how kind and friendly the Chinese people are and they made me feel so welcome, almost like a celebrity. This journey gave me unforgettable memories, cultural insights, and a deep sense of gratitude.” (D. Sewnarain)
Downeshwari Sewnarain - BSc (Hons) Computer Science, UoM
“I had the incredible opportunity to attend a summer camp in China. What truly made the trip special were the people. The locals were incredibly kind and always willing to help, even if we had some difficulty to understand them. Whether we were asking for directions or ordering food, someone was always ready to assist with a smile. Their warmth and hospitality made me feel safe and welcome throughout the trip.” (P.K. Appadu)
Paanavi Kasana Appadu – BSc (Hons) Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management, UoM
“The concept of Yin and Yang originated from China, and perfectly so, because China reflects balance and harmony between modern infrastructure and beautiful landscapes and sceneries. The contrast of modern marvels of advanced technology, bullet trains, digital way of living to the timeless beauty of ancient culture, rich values and traditions remains very much alive…This trip made me discover a part of myself that I very much loved. It pushed me to be bold and brave, curious and childlike,….I left part of my soul and heart there, and one day I’ll go back to reclaim it.” (V. Valaydon)
Vennila Valaydon – BSc (Hons) Economics, Finance and Banking (Open University of Mauritius)
“My time in China was a truly fascinating journey into the richness of Chinese culture and the warmth of its people…Seeing the panda… and wearing Hanfu were unforgettable moments that added something truly special to the experience. Tasting traditional Chinese tea during tea ceremony was a unique and enjoyable moment too. The beauty of Chinese culture amazed me and I would be delighted to visit China again in the future.” (P. Lalljee)
Parnika Lalljee - BSc (Hons) Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management, UoM
“Participating in the summer camp has been a truly unforgettable experience. It not only helped me improve my Chinese language skills but also greatly boosted my confidence in speaking and understanding the language. This trip also played an important role in my personal growth, allow me to experience daily life in China, explore its rich culture and traditions, and gain a deeper appreciation of the values and customs that shape Chinese society. This experience enriched my knowledge and inspired me deeply.” (B.A.M. Teelhawod)
Bibi Ayesha Madeeha Teelhawod - BSc (Hons) Data Science, UoM
“My summer camp in Hangzhou was truly an unforgettable experience. Not only did my Chinese improve significantly, but I also had the opportunity to explore a new culture, taste amazing food, and see breathtaking sights I had never imagined. From the beautiful West Lake to the vibrant local markets, every moment felt like a discovery. The best part was meeting so many incredible people and building friendships that I’ll cherish forever. It was a summer full of growth, adventure, and unforgettable memories.” (A. Mootoosamy)
Anastasia Mootoosamy - (BSc) Business Economics and Investment Analysis, UoM
“I had the privilege of exploring both Shanghai and Hangzhou. Shanghai captivated me with its vibrant energy and seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. In Hangzhou, the university visit offered profound insights into academic life, the cultural landmarks are steeped in enchanting legends like the ‘Butterfly Lovers’. The exquisite hand-pulled noodles and dumplings were simply unforgettable. By the trip’s end, my Mandarin improved enough to confidently order food, and I gracefully mastered the art of chopsticks.” (N.B.Z. Auhammad)
Nuzha Bibi Zaynab Auhammad, BSc (Hons) Biotechnology, UoM
“The experience of the summer camp in China was truly a dream come true. What touched me most wasn’t just the beautiful scenery, but the warm interactions with the teachers and the immersive cultural learning. From singing classes to tea ceremonies and speaking Chinese every day, the experience helped me grow both linguistically and personally. The friendships I made with fellow students and the memories we created together are the ones I will always cherish. A heartfelt thank you to CI-UoM and 浙江理工大学 for this unforgettable opportunity.” (T.P. Yue-Chi-Ming)
Tammy Pearl Yue-Chi-Ming, BSc (Hons) Finance (Minor: Law), UoM
“What captured my attention the most during this trip was the kindness of the Chinese people. Their genuine curiosity and excitement to meet a group of foreign students made us feel truly special. I cherished every part of the journey—from exploring their culture, traditions, and history to improving my Mandarin and building lasting friendships. Overall, this trip was an unforgettable experience that helped me grow and left me with memories I’ll carry for the rest of my life.” (S.K. Tan-Wee)
Sherianne Kate Tan-Wee - BSc (Hons) Economics and Finance, UoM
“It was a fun and enriching experience filled with interactive classes, cultural tours, and hands-on activities. I learned about Chinese traditions, language, and daily life while connecting with students from different backgrounds. The exchange programme offered me the chance to have a deeper appreciation of the culture and improve my communication and adaptability skills.” (U. Jugessur)
Ushika Jugessur - BSc Data Science, UoM
“From the moment I landed in Shanghai, I knew I was about to experience something deeply different from my everyday life. The journey was not only about visiting historical sites and tasting new foods—it was about immersing myself in a culture that has thrived for thousands of years. I learned to appreciate not only the visible beauty of China, but also the values of respect, harmony, and discipline that shape everyday interactions. The warmth of the locals, the depth of the culture, and the sheer diversity of landscapes left a deep impression on me - a cultural awakening.” (A. Min On Yaw Kan Tong)
Armand Min On Yaw Kan Tong - BSc (Hons) Marketing with Digital Technologies, UoM
“Just as a Chinese proverb says, ‘Reading ten thousand books is not as useful as traveling ten thousand miles’, this Summer Camp journey through Hangzhou and Shanghai was truly a chapter of its own. From the calm elegance of West Lake to the flowing soul of the Grand Canal, every moment felt like a painting brought to life. The Silk Museum whispered stories of ancient grace and craftsmanship that spanned centuries. We shared laughter over dumplings, bonded over group photos, and learned with kind-hearted teachers….all wrapped in the warm spirit of Chinese hospitality. ‘He who returns from a journey is not the same as he who left.’ (T.D. Gungabissoon)
Tulsi Devi Gungabissoon - BSc(Hons) Information Systems, UoM
“Traveling to China was an inspiring and unforgettable experience. It opened my eyes to a vibrant culture, rich in history, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. From exploring historical sites and learning about local customs to tasting delicious authentic food, every moment was filled with discovery. Interacting with the local people offered a genuine glimpse into everyday life and made the cultural exchange even more meaningful. Most importantly, the friendships and memories we created will always hold a special place in my heart.” (N. Maneeram)
Naomi Maneeram - BSc (Hons) Computer Science, UoM
Group Photo: at ZSTU, Hangzhou, China
Group Photo: In Shanghai, visiting the city!