Program Name: "Maritime Silk Road Origins · Lingering Cantonese Charm"Implementation Plan for International Students’ Study and Internship Program in Guangzhou’s Prestigious Universities and Enterprises

Organizer: Guangdong University of Foreign Studies

Co-organizer: CICG Center for Asia and Pacific Center for International Cooperation Innovation and Development

Target Participants:Outstanding university students worldwide aged 18 and above

Group Size: 40–50 participants per group (flexible upon request)

Duration: 7 days / 4 sessions per year

Enhance Business Chinese proficiency: Help learners with zero Chinese background quickly master the most commonly used core Chinese vocabulary, sentence patterns, and communication skills for daily life.

Deepen understanding of Guangzhou’s “Millennium Commercial Capital” culture and modern industries Gain systematic knowledge of Guangzhou’s long-standing commercial history, distinctive business traditions (such as the Thirteen Hongs Spirit and the Canton Fair), leading digital innovation enterprises, as well as the current status and development trends of its core industries as the economic center of southern China.

Experience the essence of Lingnan culture: Immerse in and understand the characteristics of Lingnan (Cantonese) culture, including paper cutting, martial arts, Hanfu, calligraphy, Canton–Hong Kong–Macao business culture, and its integration with modern society.

Broaden international horizons and cross-cultural communication skills: Enhance cross-cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and effective communication skills by interacting with Chinese teachers and students, business professionals, and local residents in a multicultural environment.

Authoritative Endorsement

Guangdong University of Foreign Studies (GDUFS) is a key national university specializing in foreign languages and foreign trade, and is one of the most influential institutions in China in the field of foreign language education and international talent cultivation. The university boasts a comprehensive multi-language teaching system, strong international cooperation networks, and extensive experience in hosting international students. Over the years, it has established partnerships with more than 400 universities and institutions across five continents and enjoys a high reputation in cross-cultural communication and global understanding education.
The Center for International Cooperation & Innovation Development of the Asia-Pacific Communication Center, China Foreign Languages Publishing Administration (CICG), operates under China’s national-level foreign communication platform, leveraging abundant international communication resources to promote educational, cultural, and economic exchanges between China and the Asia-Pacific region. The Center has mature project planning and implementation capabilities, having successfully organized multiple international study, training, and cultural exchange programs, and holds a strong professional reputation in the field of international educational cooperation.

Prime Location

GDUFS is located in Guangzhou, adjacent to Hong Kong and Macao, with convenient transportation and rich cultural heritage. Students can experience a unique blend of modern and traditional culture in this vibrant city.

Professional Curriculum System

The courses are designed by experienced Chinese language and culture instructors, integrating corporate visits and industrial study tours to ensure participants quickly acquire practical Chinese skills and gain in-depth knowledge of Chinese society and economic development.

Rich Cultural & Exchange Activities

Beyond classroom learning, students will participate in exchange activities with international students at GDUFS, engaging in face-to-face interaction to enhance cross-cultural understanding.

Daily Schedule (Example, subject to adjustment)

Morning: Business Chinese course (enhancing listening, speaking, reading skills)

Afternoon: Chinese culture classes / Visit famous historical and cultural sites in the city/ industrial study tours / international student activities

Evening: Cultural salons, movie nights, or free time

Course Modules

Language Classes:Focused on practical communication and cultural understanding to rapidly improve Chinese proficiency.

Cultural Classes: Chinese national conditions, tea ceremony, calligraphy, painting, martial arts, with one learning presentation session.

Corporate Visits & Industrial Tours: Visits to well-known enterprises and industry hubs to learn about China’s modern economy and technological innovation.

International Student Activities: Face-to-face interactions with GDUFS international students for cultural, academic, and interest-based.

Guangzhou Cultural Experience:Cantonese morning tea (Dim sum)，Visits to Haixinsha, Yongqing Fang, Pearl River Night Cruise, etc.

Short Nature Trips: Excursions to nearby areas such as Conghua to experience Lingnan’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

Class schedule (subject to adjustment based on actual situation)

Accommodation

Accommodation:Guangzhou Poly Villas Hotel (only 400 meters from the classroom).

Lodging arrangement: 7 days and 6 nights in a standard twin room (breakfast included) .

A dedicated coordinator to assist with daily arrangements and cross-cultural communication; complete facilities including canteen, security, cleaning, and emergency medical support.

Teaching Facilities: Multimedia classrooms, cultural experience rooms, and corporate training venues.

(1) Visits to Leading Enterprises

Type:

Top companies in sectors like international logistics and new energy vehicles.

Objective:

Enable students to experience Chinese corporate culture, operations, and innovations firsthand, while developing an international outlook and professional competencies.

Highlights: 

International Logistics:Gain insights into global supply chain management, intelligent warehousing, and innovative logistics technologies.
New Energy Vehicles: Observe the development of new energy technologies and sustainable transportation solutions

(2) Cultural & City Exploration in Guangzhou (1-Day Tour)

Itinerary

Yongqingfang: A historic Lingnan-style neighborhood where students can experience the city’s history and local customs.

Banxi Restaurant: Enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine and experience the culinary culture of the Lingnan region.

Haixin Bridge: View the scenic Pearl River and experience the modern urban landscape.

Haixinsha Asian Games Park: A landmark city park in Guangzhou, combining leisure, sports, and urban scenery.

Pearl River Night Cruise & Dinner: Take a night cruise on the Pearl River, enjoy the illuminated cityscape along the riverbanks, and have a special dinner.

Highlights

Experience the integration of Lingnan history and modern cityscape

Comprehensive cultural, art, architecture, nature, and culinary experience

Enrich students’ cultural understanding and sensory experience of Chinese city life