From 27th May to 21st June, the Second International Chinese Studies is being held in BNUZ. ICS, co-conducted by professors from Acadia University, Saint Mary’s University and School of Chinese BNUZ, is featured with internationalization. All credit courses are taught in English with an opportunity to improve Chinese language skills in a short time of period. All Credit courses are made to match typical similar courses taught in a Western university so such credits could be transferred back to their home universities. With these courses, students not only can get an insight into Chinese history, economy, politics, literature and linguistics, but also can have a opportunity for cross-border and open study and exchange.

At 10 A.M. of 27th May, the opening ceremony of the Second International Chinese Studies, hosted by Prof. Zhangmingyuan, dean of School of Chinese, was held in meeting room of International Center. Prof. Fu Ailan, vice president of BNUZ, Prof. Zhang Mingyuan, Dr. Charles Beaupre, Director of the Confucius Institute at Saint Mary's University, Dr. Robert Perrins, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Professor in the Department of History & Classics at Acadia University and other experts, together with Dr. Gan Chunyan, director of Office of International Affairs, Mr. Bill Bu, member of the Canadian Chinese studies experts, Dr. Qiu Yue, and students of the 2013 ICS program attended the opening ceremony.

Prof. Zhang Mingyuan said delighted that on the basis of the first ICS last year, there are improvements of this year’s ICS program. Professors both at home and abroad provide elaborate courses and lectures to 24 students from Canada, Pakistan, Ecuador and China.

Prof. Fu Ailan, vice president of BNUZ, address the ceremony in English. She quoted Confucius’ words “Isn’t it a delightful event that friends come to visit from afar?” She expressed her warm welcome for professors and students from Canada and highly appreciated the efforts have been made by the two Canadian professors to facilitate the 2012 ICS. She was also happy to see that the number of students has been increased from 11 last year to 24 this year. She encouraged Canadian students to make good use of the Chinese environment to learn more about the Chinese culture and make friends with Chinese students.

Later on, the two Canadian professors made their speeches. Prof. Robert has studied Chinese language and modern history in universities in northeast China and Beijing. This is his 33rd time to come to China. He said that Zhuhai just like his second hometown and when he came to Zhuhai this year, it is great to return home!

Ria Tienhaara, representative of Canadian students, shared her experience of first few days after arriving China. Hina Butt, student from School of Chinese, said in fluent Chinese and English that she was expecting this program since so many cultures will collide and surprise will follow.

The second ICS goes through well! On the morning of 1st June, ICS members visited Husky oil China co., LTD, got to know its general situation and the cooperation between China and Canada. In the afternoon, they visited Sun Yat sen Museum, got to know more about the Chinese modern history.