On November 16, sunlight filled the sports field of the Xiaoxiang Campus of Central South University. National flags of various countries fluttered in the wind, and cultural booths were arranged in order. The 5th International Cultural Festival of Central South University opened here. More than 10,000 Chinese and international teachers and students from over 100 countries and regions around the world gathered together, using their taste buds, fingertips, and smiles to embark on this cultural journey across mountains and seas.
This year's International Cultural Festival showcased the diverse charms of world cultures through various forms such as cultural performances, interactive experiences, and themed garden parties. At the same time, students attending the event could receive a customized "passport," "travel around" various booths, and complete interactive games to obtain stamps from country booths. Collecting 50 stamps also allowed them to participate in a lucky draw to win prizes.
Indonesian satay beef skewers, Egyptian miniature pyramid models, Korean spicy stir-fried rice cakes... Cultural booths from 51 countries were arranged in a row, each with its own characteristics, showcasing a rich variety of ethnic crafts and specialty foods, like a miniature "global village." International students dressed in traditional ethnic costumes such as saris and traditional robes waved enthusiastically, introducing their own cultures, with pride shining in their eyes.
"We prepared traditional foods such as turmeric rice and coconut rolls, and also set up traditional Indonesian games such as rubber band jumping and sack racing. These interactions reflect the important 'spirit of cooperation and mutual assistance' in Indonesian culture," said Chen Shuo'an, an Indonesian student.
He Yingying, a South African student who served as the head of an international cultural booth, shared,"The transition from participant to organizer has made me deeply realize that the influence of the cultural festival is continuously expanding, and the event is being understood and recognized by more people." Her partner Huo Peijia said, "As the number of participating countries increases, diverse cultures blend on the same stage, and the cultural festival truly returns to the essence of 'exchange and sharing'."
The Chinese culture exhibition area was equally fascinating. Interactive activities organized by the Xiangya Traditional Chinese Medicine Association, Chutian Hanfu Club, Floral Art Club, and Nanxun Poetry Club made teachers and students unable to resist stopping to admire. Well-known enterprises such as Zoomlion and Zijin Mining Group set up booths on site, engaging in in-depth conversations with students about future career development. The calligraphy works and interactive games at the International Chinese Education booth showcased the unique charm of learning Chinese. The Lufeng International Youth Post Office from the First Primary School Attached to Central South University and the embroidery carving display from the Second Primary School Attached to Central South University demonstrated the infinite possibilities of cultural exchange from a childlike perspective.
The cultural performance segment was continuously exciting, presenting a total of 25 country-specific performances throughout the day. From passionate and exuberant African songs and dances to the uniquely rhythmic dances of Central Asia, from the melodious playing of Southeast Asian musical instruments to the combination of softness and hardness in Chinese martial arts, each program won rounds of applause from the audience. A specially designed "First Aid and Psychological Skills" interactive session integrated safety education into cultural activities through lively formats such as knowledge quizzes and skill demonstrations, becoming a major highlight of the performance segment.
Chinese Source: Hunan Daily
