International and Chinese students pose for a photo with their calligraphy works. [Photo/Jinyun App]

International students from countries involved in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have helped bring global perspectives to primary and secondary schools in Tianjin through a unique cultural exchange program.

Organized by the School of Foreign Languages at Tianjin University of Commerce with support from the Nankai district's education bureau, the initiative has sent international students from seven countries to six local schools this semester.

Through bilingual presentations, international students shared stories about their home countries, local customs, study experiences in Tianjin, and achievements made through international cooperation, showcasing the diverse cultures along the Silk Road.

The participating schools also introduced the visitors to traditional Chinese culture through a variety of interactive activities, including bamboo dance performances, visits to intangible cultural heritage museums and tie-dye workshops, aluminum foil art, traditional musical instrument demonstrations, and Chinese calligraphy.

By learning, creating, and performing together, Chinese and international students strengthened mutual understanding and friendship while experiencing the spirit of cultural exchange firsthand.

The program not only broadens local students' global outlook but also provides international students with valuable opportunities to deepen their understanding of China, improve their cross-cultural communication skills, and serve as ambassadors for people-to-people exchanges.