The preliminary round for international students of the 6th Tell China's Stories in English Contest has recently concluded successfully. Fatoumata Kaba, an international student from Guinea studying at our university and known by her Chinese name Li Xiaokai, delivered an outstanding performance and was awarded an honorary certificate. Her excellent showing epitomises the positive mindset of international students on campus, as well as their admirable attainment of immersing themselves in Chinese culture and engaging proactively in cross-cultural communication.

Co-hosted by China Education Television and New Channel International Education Group, Tell China's Stories in English is a large-scale linguistic and cultural exchange event targeting young people at home and abroad. It encourages young learners to draw on their personal experiences of study, life and growth, and narrate their perceptions of China vividly in English. The initiative is designed to facilitate exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and foreign youth, and bolster the international dissemination of Chinese culture.

This year’s competition for international students drew 5,078 contestants from 149 countries and regions across the globe, representing 257 universities. Its extensive participation fully demonstrates its far-reaching international influence.

During the contest, Li Xiaokai shared her genuine understandings and reflections on Chinese culture, campus life and cross-cultural communication, presenting her stories sincerely and fluently based on her real-life experiences in China. Her remarkable performance not only reflects the enthusiasm of international students to learn about, integrate into and speak for China, but also serves as solid testimony to the fruitful achievements our university has made in the education and administration of international students, as well as in international cultural exchanges.

In recent years, Sichuan University of Culture and Arts has attached great importance to the education of international students. The university has consistently built diversified platforms for language practice and cultural experience, encouraging overseas students to take part in a wide range of cultural exchange activities alongside their academic studies. Through hands-on participation, they gain in-depth insights into Chinese society, develop a genuine appreciation for Chinese culture and forge closer bonds with young Chinese people.

This accolade for Xiao Kaili is a testament to her personal diligence and talent, and also a microcosm of the university’s progress in fostering international talent. Moving forward, leveraging its diverse international exchange programmes and cultural practice platforms, the university will continue to support international students to learn, experience and thrive in China. We will inspire them to tell authentic Chinese stories and spread Chinese culture from their unique perspectives, contributing the strength of Sichuan University of Culture and Arts to exchanges between young people worldwide and the shared development of human civilisations.