Participants for the Land-Sea-International Youth Urban Observation Program Season 1 Central Park Theme Event pose a group photo at Chongqing Yubei Exhibition Center on Nov. 23, 2023. (Photo provided to iChongqing and Bridging News)
The Land-Sea-International Youth Urban Observation Program Season 1 Central Park Theme Event concluded on Saturday in Southwest China's Chongqing.
While visiting the surrounding area of Chongqing Central Park in Yubei District, eighteen young participants from nine countries with diverse professional backgrounds engaged in a three-day urban observation, focusing on the city’s high-quality development, premium living, and efficient governance.
Based on their interests and expertise, the activity was divided into three groups. The group interested in industries visited the Xiantao International Big Data Valley, those focused on community development explored various neighborhoods and blocks, and the group interested in public services visited the cultural center, library, and youth center.
Muhammad Afzal from Pakistan communicates with other participants. (Photo provided to iChongqing)
Muhammad Afzal from Pakistan is currently pursuing a PhD in Computer Science and Technology at Chongqing University. Witnessing the significant increase in chip functionality, reduction in size, and decrease in prices, he marveled at the technological development in China. He noted that technological advancements have brought great ease to people's lives, enhancing the well-being of the population.
Houngla Laofang, an international student from Laos at Southwest University of Political Science & Law, compared the urban planning of Chongqing and cities in Laos based on his practical experience in Chongqing.
He remarked, "In terms of transportation, although our country is small, urban planning is not very standardized or scientific. Traffic congestion is evident, leading to inconvenience for residents. In contrast, Chongqing, despite being a large city with a large number of cars and roads, maintains smooth traffic. Compared to our country, it is constructed very well."
"The library has many interesting books and study spaces. What impressed me the most is the special space provided for people with disabilities, which is not available in my country," said Opreanu Andra-Nineta, a Romanian student at Southwest University.
At the same time, she expressed a desire to see more activity centers for young people and students, encouraging them to step outside, interact more, and learn through activities, play, and sports.
Nigerian student Okafor Miracle Uzochukwu practices tai chi at the University for senior citizens. (Photo provided to iChongqing)
Prior to joining this program, Southwest University Nigerian student Okafor Miracle Uzochukwu expressed, “I didn't know there is something like this kind of university for older people.”
He highlighted that the program goes beyond physical structures like buildings, bridges, and roads; it also focuses on educational development and facilities. Uzochukwu was deeply impressed and suggested incorporating more facilities into educational establishments like the university for the senior citizens.
"We hope that through such urban observation program, more international youth can witness a more authentic, dimensional, and beautiful Chongqing," said Chen Can, deputy secretary-general of the Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation, one of the sponsors for the program.
"In the future, we plan to delve into more fields, including ecology, transportation, and architecture. We welcome a multitude of international youth to come to Chongqing, not just to experience its attractions but also to contribute valuable suggestions and insights to the city's development," she added.