The Chinese Language Program for Foreign Experts (Autumn Session), hosted by Shanghai's Hongkou district, was launched on Sept 20 at Heping Library and Heping Park. The event attracted over 30 foreign professionals from universities, research institutions, and foreign-funded enterprises across the city, offering them an opportunity to explore Chinese culture.

"I was born in the Year of the Rabbit, so my zodiac is the Rabbit," said Zhang Yicheng, a teacher from the Chinese School of Shanghai International Studies University, as she introduced the phrase wǒ shǔ tù, wǒ de shēng xiào shì tù. She began the session with basic self-introductions such as name, nationality, zodiac, and hobbies, teaching participants how to present themselves in Chinese.

"Does 'wǒ shǔ tù' mean I am a rabbit?" asked Gwendonila from Belgium. Zhang explained, "The word shǔ means 'belong to'. It doesn't mean you are that animal." She then gave a detailed introduction of the twelve zodiac animals and used a chart to help participants identify their own signs.

During the exchange session, participants practiced introducing themselves in Chinese, following the teacher's examples and exchanging greetings with peers.

After the language class, participants visited Heping Park, exploring Hongkou's ecological environment on a guided walk. They also practiced simple Chinese sentences to interact with the park staff, enhancing language proficiency through practical applications.

Thong Hongheng, a teacher from Cambodia at Shanghai International Studies University, who can speak fluent Chinese, joined the program for the second time. He expressed his hope to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture through the program.

Compared with the spring program held in April, this autumn session extends beyond the classroom. It includes visits to the Sanjiaodi wet market, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, Jiaxing Road community cultural activity center, Tian'ai Road, and the Chin Woo Athletic Association. Through first-hand experience, participants can learn communication skills, experience local daily life, and explore traditional Chinese heritage.

In recent years, Hongkou district has initiated the "Hongkou Talent Program" and introduced a series of supportive services, aiming to establish the North Bund as a new urban benchmark.

Source: Hongkou district government