From the 2^nd of July until the 7^th of July, one of the staff members from PUTRA International Centre, Ms Nur Syafinaz Shaari, embarked on an enriching journey of cultural exploration and exchange by joining the "Zhi & Xing Guizhou" Silk Road Youth Exchange Programme in Bijie. The program, organized by Guizhou University of Engineering Science (GUES), seeks to foster humanistic exchanges and cooperation between partner universities, promoting friendship and understanding among young people from countries along the Belt and Road.

Launched in 2021, the "Zhi & Xing Guizhou" Silk Road Youth Exchange Programme (referred to as ZXG) is a collaborative initiative hosted by Guizhou Provincial Department of Education and the Secretariat of the Organizing Committee of China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week. Guizhou's universities and colleges actively organize the program, inviting over 100 young participants from Belt and Road nations each year to experience short-term exchanges in Guizhou.

The program provides a platform for international youth to delve into the heart of Guizhou's rich cultural heritage, fostering mutual understanding and building lasting friendships through a range of exchange activities. Throughout the program, participants engaged in various cultural immersion experiences. The journey took them to Huawu Village in Xinren Miao Nationality Township, Qianxi City, where they were exposed to the vibrant local culture and traditions. Exploring Pingyuan Ancient Town in Zhijin County offered further insights into the region's historical significance and architectural wonders.

The participants also marvelled at the natural beauty of Zhijin Cave, a captivating underground world of stunning stalactites and stalagmites. At GUES, they had the privilege of delving into the Cultural Art of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage, witnessing the intricate craft of Batik and Papercut.

Further broadening their horizons, the participants learned about Chinese Traditional Ethnic Minority Sports, gaining an appreciation for the diverse athletic traditions within the country. A fascinating Traditional Chinese Medical Science experience allowed them to explore the ancient wisdom of traditional medicine and its role in contemporary healthcare practices. The program concluded on 6th July 2023 with a heartwarming graduation ceremony, where participants bid farewell to newfound friends while cherishing memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.

The "Zhi & Xing Guizhou" Silk Road Youth Exchange Programme stands as a commendable initiative among youth exchange programs under the China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week. It exemplifies the power of cultural exchange and mutual understanding in forging lasting bonds of friendship and collaboration among nations. Hopefully, through their participation in this program, they bring with them a renewed passion for advancing international cooperation and strengthening UPM's commitment to fostering global connections and knowledge-sharing opportunities in the pursuit of academic excellence and cultural understanding.

Date of Input: 31/07/2023 | Updated: 31/07/2023 | sh_najiyah