Xi'an Shiyou University empowers Central Asian students, bridging cultures

During a cultural tour of Hanzhong's tea plantations, Pulatov Khasanjon participates in traditional tea harvesting techniques. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"My hometown, Tajikistan, has a rapidly growing oil industry but lacks professionals in safety engineering, so I chose to study at Xi'an Shiyou University," said Sohibov Furqat from Tajikistan.

He was drawn to the university's advanced teaching facilities and faculty. "The teachers here are not only knowledgeable but also very patient in answering our questions."

In class, Furqat listens attentively and participates actively. During his free time, he spends hours in the library researching.

"I hope to bring the advanced technology and management experience I learn in China back home to ensure the safe development of our energy industry."

At Xi'an Shiyou University in Shaanxi Province, many Central Asian students, like Furqat, are studying and growing.

Nazrieva Nasiba experiences traditional Chinese ink painting in Hancheng, Shaanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Nazrieva Nasiba, also from Tajikistan, was attracted to studying Chinese at the university because of her love for Chinese culture.

"Because of my mother's influence, I have been interested in Chinese history and culture since childhood," she shared, adding that language and cultural differences initially posed a challenge.

"But teachers and classmates were very kind, patiently helping me with pronunciation and introducing me to traditional Chinese food."

With their support, she quickly adapted. "My Chinese has improved a lot, and I want more people to know the charm of China."

Pulatov Khasanjon from Uzbekistan chose computer science and technology as his major, captivated by China's advanced technology in the field.

"I hope to bring China's innovative ideas back to Uzbekistan to promote the digital economy and build a bridge for cooperation between our countries in computer science."

Sohibov Furqat participates in traditional tea harvesting techniques in Hanzhong, Shaanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The Belt and Road Initiative has opened new channels for Central Asian exchanges, with more international students becoming cultural ambassadors between China and Central Asia, said Wang Jinfu, president of the university.

"We are committed to creating a warm and friendly learning environment for Central Asian students, helping them succeed in China and become links connecting China and the world," he said.

Guided by the BRI, the university prioritizes training Central Asian students as a core international strategy.

With its International Education College, the university has developed a unique talent cultivation model.

To introduce traditional Chinese culture to international students, the university explores Shaanxi's intangible cultural heritage, developing hands-on experience programs in tai chi, tea picking, rattan weaving, Dun embroidery and traditional papermaking.

"We hope these cultural projects help students step beyond the classroom to see China from a more vivid, authentic perspective, deepening their understanding and recognition of Chinese culture as they experience China's social development," Wang said.