The delegation of Summer Camp, 2019 arrived in Hangzhou on 11th June 2019 for a 14-days cultural tour of Zhejiang Province. The students of the Summer Camp were selected by their teachers on the basis of their performance in Mandarin classes, attendance to the class and their participation in cultural activities. They have been learning Mandarin for more than one year at CI-UoM. The students were warmly welcomed and hosted by Zhejiang Sci-Tech University (ZSTU), which is the partner institution.
The experience of the Summer Camp left a strong impression on all the students. Below are excerpts of what they saw, heard and felt.
Hurkoo Nitisha
“A Chinese saying quoted that “Up above there is heaven, and it’s equal on earth are Suzhou and Hangzhou.” The 2019 Summer Camp was a wonderful opportunity to experience Chinese culture and discover the beauty of China. We had a unique opportunity of spending a day at Laoshi Ma’s place, and learning more about the local culture. Mrs Ma taught us how to make ‘jiaozi’ (dumplings). The exchange program gave me the opportunity to experience both the history and people of the Zhejiang province through tours and activities.”
Katiana Narrainen
“I have discovered not only the legendary beauty of the city of Hangzhou but also its rich culture, gastronomy and enchanting history. I am delighted to have been able to experience the rich Chinese traditional culture. From the traditional clothes, the tea ceremony, calligraphy, tai chi, paper cutting, to visits to museums and parks. I am truly grateful to Confucius Institute for this great opportunity to discover China in all its splendor and to experience Chinese culture and tradition.”
Manhesha Mulleea
“Hangzhou is where nature and culture fell in love at first sight and ever since they met, they have formed a magnificent bond which has been strengthened by the lovely people of China. There is so much to explore and experience in China that maybe a lifetime might not be enough. After spending 14 wonderful days in Hangzhou and Suzhou, meeting amazing people and visiting extremely beautiful places, waving goodbye has never been so difficult. China, you’ll be missed until we meet again!”
Pimmi Wozageer
“These two weeks of Summer Camp in China had been very enriching and an eye-opener to most of us. From the very first day to the last, we visited different places, learned different cultures, and tasted different food. We had loads of unique experiences and memories which are quite difficult to pen down. However, one thing I can definitely say is that the summer camp in China has been one of my best personal life experiences so far.”
Shoaib Sohawon
“On seeing the marvellous silk artefacts of ancient China, I was fascinated by the technical and artistic expertise of the Chinese people and understood the progress they have made in so short a time… On nature’s beauty, ‘If Mauritius is heaven, then Suzhou is paradise’. Most of the places we visited are amazing and the warmth of the Chinese people is remarkable. China can only be described by feelings. I simply want to say that the Chinese are great people and China is one of the most beautiful countries in the world.”
Jenisha Ghoorah
“What I wanted to experience was the cultural aspect of China. I knew that culture and tradition are the foundations of Chinese development. We experienced the Chinese culture every time we went to eat, roam the streets and visit museums and other places. The aspect that I never considered was the Chinese people. I find them very nice and hospitable. I have learned and shared so much information about China in those 14 days of experiencing its culture and tradition. It was the best of times in my life….!”
Hung Lo Sang Hung Fon Fon
“My visit in China was an incredible experience. It helped me broaden my perspective of life….Chinese food is very varied and delicious. I have had various types of food from Jiaozi, Baozi, Congzi, Hanbao to fish, roasted pork, and tofu. Chinese people are very kind, honest, punctual and hard-working. We were introduced to the rich Chinese culture through visits to museums, streets, lakes, and other palces. China has stayed true to its values and traditional beliefs. I fell in love with the way of life of the people there…!”
Nirvitee Juddoo
“Visiting that part of China was a memorable experience and I thank Confucius Institute from the bottom of my heart for this once in a lifetime opportunity. I enjoyed every minute of it thoroughly, made friends with people I interacted with, tasted delicious Chinese food and explored everything those places had to offer…. the quaint little town of Suzhou opened its arms to us as we left our hearts there. It was a beautiful experience…..and I’m looking forward to go back there again!”
Sheena Beeharry
“A lifetime is not enough to soak in the beauty of the Chinese culture and the incredible landscape along with the kindheartedness of the locals…From ancient cities to vibrant contemporary megalopolis, from enriching cultural places to adventure filled parks, Hangzhou and Suzhou have the attractions and beauty that left me awestruck. I am forever thankful to CI-UOM for the summer camp 2019 and I would like to quote a Chinese proverb which says: ‘Reading thousands of books is not as good as traveling thousands of miles.”
Valerie Ramboro
“China emerged as immensely beautiful with its land full of culture, traditions, colossal infrastructures, lots of delicious food and with the most kind and welcoming people I've ever met.”
Maysoon Macky
“Another moment I remembered was the time I spent in Suzhou. Suzhou was magical. It was so beautiful and breathtaking. The gardens were amazing and they reek of history. At one point some elderly women came and started to praise my friend and me. They were so nice and welcoming. I felt their warmth. The temple was so beautiful. I felt peace of mind. It is really a place of spirituality, belief and magic.”
Yashasweenee Bheekarry
“I am so inspired by China and the humbleness of the people that I felt like I need to explore and know more about the Chinese history, Chinese literature and Chinese culture.”
Kusha Ramdeehul
“Travelling to china and experiencing their culture and food are unique experiences. I met a number of people in China and they were all kind-hearted and very welcoming. I have immense respect for the country and look forward to going there again!”
Evilen Pillay Sadaseeven
“I realised that Chinese people are extremely humble and kind towards foreigners! Even the people who didn’t understand English tried to communicate with us. Amidst the wonderful people, succulent food and historic places, every second of this summer camp is tattooed in my heart. While I can say that I saw ‘’China in my eyes’’, I can definitely say that I have seen China through my heart!’
Covaalen Virasami
“China gave me some of the most enjoyable and rewarding moments I have experienced yet. This has strengthened my desire to further my Chinese and I would most certainly like to return there for holidays, studies or even work!”
Jaysingh Jadheea
“The Summer Camp held in China organised by Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius was highly beneficial and has contributed enormously to the academic and cultural development of all the participants.”
Keshav Aungnoo
“Chinese people are very welcoming, helpful and generous to people who are different from them. It was a nice experience going around on my own. Some of the favorite words we used throughout our stay were: ‘Méiyǒu, Piàoliang, Píjiǔ, Wǒ bù zhīdào & Xièxiè’. Overall it was much fun and exciting to meet new people and adventuring around.”
Kushika Seetahul
“I came back with a new understanding of the country and its people. There is no question that China has a long and illustrious history of making contributions in areas of culture, philosophy, architecture, science, and engineering.”
Bhineshwari Gungabissoon
“It was fun learning about the history and cultures through different museums we visited. I was intrigued by the history of swords and knives. It was exciting to learn how earlier craftsmen used rocks to produce these unique pieces of swords and knives for emperors or for themselves.”