As autumn set in across Changchun, 16 teachers and students from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia joined the “NENU-Malaysia Liberal Arts and Science Study Camp,” organized by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC) and hosted by Northeast Normal University (NENU). Over the course of four weeks, they engaged in classroom learning, cultural experiences, and field trips, gaining an in-depth appreciation of Chinese society and culture. Highlighting the theme of “integrating liberal arts and sciences,” the camp provided students with a dual focus on scientific thinking and humanistic learning, broadening their international perspectives and deepening their cross-cultural understanding. Here, at the intersection of classrooms and practice, campus and society, they harvested knowledge, friendship, and unforgettable memories.
1. Discovering Liberal Arts and Sciences in the Classroom
In the field of science, Professor Gao Hang, a National Model Teacher and National Teaching Master, and Doctoral Supervisor at the School of Mathematics and Statistics, NENU, delivered a mathematics lecture exploring the calculation of geometric objects through logical derivation, revealing the elegance and depth of mathematical thought. The School of Physics organized interactive exchanges with Chinese students, during which participants engaged in hands-on experiments such as circuit welding and voice-controlled circuit design. In addition, the lecture on “Memristors and Brain-Inspired Devices” introduced students to cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence and next-generation chip technology, encouraging them to reflect on the future of science while appreciating the significance of research.
In the humanities, courses such as An Overview of China, Chinese Culture, and Contemporary China guided students in understanding China’s history and present from multiple perspectives, including literature, history, society, and language.
Meanwhile, hands-on workshops in calligraphy, Chinese painting, tea ceremony, tai chi fan, hulusi (gourd flute), cloisonné, and Peking Opera allowed participants to immerse themselves in the richness of traditional Chinese culture.
2. Culture Along the Journey
Beyond the classroom, the students discovered China through journeys rich in scenery and culture.
From the bustling morning markets of Changchun to the diverse Zhongdong Market, they immersed themselves in the daily life of Northeast China. At the Changchun Culture of Water Ecology Park, they learned about urban development and ecological wisdom, experiencing harmony between humans and nature. At the Northeast Tiger Park, they observed the majestic tigers up close and learned about wildlife conservation. At the Puppet Manchu Palace Museum, they explored historical relics and gained a deeper understanding of China’s modern history. On trips to Changbai Mountain and Yanji, they admired breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ethnic cultures. For one student, the journey was made even more special with a birthday celebration on Changbai Mountain—complete with cake, songs, and heartfelt wishes.
3. Our Graduation Moment
At the closing ceremony, Wang Xiaobo, Deputy Director of the Division of International Cooperation and Exchange, encouraged students to bring back their learning and experiences to Malaysia and to serve as ambassadors of friendship between China and Malaysia. YEOH LI CHENG, the accompanying teacher from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful arrangements and warm hospitality provided by NENU, and wished for closer cooperation between the two universities. Student representatives, the class monitor LEE WIN KEE and vice monitor TEU YOKE YAN, reflected on the past four weeks of study and life, expressing their appreciation for the courses and gratitude to the teachers for their dedication.
The successful completion of the “NENU–Malaysia Students’ Liberal Arts and Sciences Study Camp” not only highlighted NENU’s distinctive integration of the sciences and humanities, but also built a new bridge for youth exchange between China and Malaysia. Looking ahead, NENU will continue to expand the “Study at NENU” program, welcoming more young people from around the world to experience life and learning in China.
初审：崔 艳
复审：杨 健
终审：汪晓波
