Chongqing - The 2024 Annual Educational Conference on International People-to-People Exchange for Youth was held in Chongqing from November 17 to 19. Over 600 participants came from 18 provinces, cities, and autonomous regions across China, all dedicated to fostering international cultural exchange.

The event, which featured thematic presentations, roundtable discussions, and case studies, focused on advancing youth cultural exchanges and fostering global cooperation in education.

The 2024 Annual Educational Conference on International People-to-People Exchange for Youth was held in Chongqing from November 17 to 19. (Photo/The event organizer)

During the conference, the International Youth Cultural Exchange Research Think Tank signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with several prominent institutions, including the Center of Chinese and Greek Ancient Civilizations, the Chongqing High-tech Zone Public Service Bureau, the Sichuan Tianfu New Area Community Governance and Social Affairs Bureau, the Western China International Communication Organization, and the Chengdu Education Foreign Exchange Center.

These collaborations signal a new phase in regional and multi-dimensional development in international youth cultural exchange, offering greater opportunities and resources to further these efforts.

During the conference, the International Youth Cultural Exchange Research Think Tank signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with several prominent institutions. (Photo/The even organizer)

Xia Juan, Deputy Director of the China Center for International People-to-People Exchange of the Ministry of Education, emphasized that cultural exchange is essential for strengthening the social foundations of international relations, enhancing China's openness, and contributing to the Belt and Road Initiative. 

She stressed that youth, as the main focus of social education, represents the future. Promoting exchanges among young people fosters international understanding and cultivates high-quality talent with global competencies, which is crucial for global cooperation and governance.

Xia Juan, Deputy Director of the China Center for International People-to-People Exchange of the Ministry of Education, gave the speech. (Photo/The event organizer)

Zhang Dongsheng, Secretary-General of the International Education Branch of the Chinese Society of Education, said, "Every year, the conference brings new insights."He highlighted the need for international exchange in basic education to evolve from quantity to quality, which aligns with international education's new responsibilities and missions. 

Jian Qu, Director of the International Youth Cultural Exchange Research Think Tank, pointed out that cultural exchange is not a frequent part of mainstream education outside of a few international schools and programs. Without practical activities, these exchanges may remain theoretical. Jian thanked the experts and principals present for their commitment to nurturing young people with a global outlook and cultural understanding.

At the conference, 11 distinguished guests and experts delivered keynote speeches, addressing key topics such as cultural exchange within the context of China's strategy for building a strong education system, the development of international scientific and educational platforms, the global communication of Chinese stories, the impact of artificial intelligence on learning, and innovations in basic education.

Chen Xiaoyu, Director of the Basic Education Research Center at Peking University, released the "2023 Report on Innovation in International Youth Cultural Exchange Education." The report analyzed exchange countries, formats, and needs and summarized successful case studies in youth cultural exchange.

At the conference, Chen Xiaoyu, Director of the Basic Education Research Center at Peking University, released the "2023 Report on Innovation in International Youth Cultural Exchange Education." (Photo/The event organizer)

Yang Xiaochun, Vice President of the Association For Student Employment, discussed the relationship between education and cultural exchange. He emphasized that education provides the foundation and platform for cultural exchange, while cultural exchange enriches education, improves its quality, and enhances its international impact. He called for the integration of family, school, and social education to promote cultural exchange alongside moral education.

The age of artificial intelligence has brought new possibilities for cultural exchange. Hu Hang, a professor from Southwest University, explored how AI is transforming global learning methods. His insights provided a fresh perspective on cultural exchange and how technology can facilitate youth exchanges between China and the world.

Professor Cui Yanqiang, Director of the Center of Chinese and Greek Ancient Civilizations, focused on civilizational exchanges between China and Greece, examining the theoretical framework and academic system behind such exchanges. He shared specific projects that demonstrate how education fosters cross-cultural integration and deepens international cooperation. His analysis provided valuable insights for the design of future international education programs.

The conference also featured two high-level roundtable discussions with ten education experts who exchanged ideas on new directions for cross-national educational cooperation.

The conference provided a significant platform for international youth cultural exchange and valuable learning and networking opportunities for educators. It injected new energy into the internationalization of education and will continue to shape the future of youth cultural exchange, contributing Chinese wisdom and strength to global education development.