Crestar Confucius Institute’s Insightful Learning Exchange Trip to East China Normal University (Shanghai) for Singapore-Malaysia Principals and Singapore Students

Crestar Confucius Institute in Singapore successfully organised a learning exchange programme to Shanghai, China, from 2 to 8 June 2025.  East China Normal University (ECNU) warmly hosted the group of 40 participants during the visit. The participants included principals from Singapore and Malaysia and secondary school students from Singapore.

The principals visited Yew Chung International School of Shanghai and SAIC Volkswagen Automotive Co., Ltd., to witness the vigorous development of contemporary Chinese technology, education, and culture. They also toured cultural and historic sites such as Yu Garden, Shanghai Museum, and the scenic Huangpu River waterfront. Through such in-depth exchanges and visits, seeds were sown for future international cooperation in education.

Meanwhile, the Singapore students gained immensely from their summer camp experience. Activities included Shanghainese classes (the local dialect), calligraphy practice, and visits to historic landmarks such as Yu Garden.  They also attended a Kunqu opera performance, one of the oldest and most refined forms of Chinese opera.  These enhanced their understanding of Chinese culture and made learning Chinese culture more vivid and engaging for the students.

This study trip deepened students’ appreciation for Chinese culture and heritage and inspired them further in learning and loving Chinese language.  All students received certificates from the “Chinese Bridge” Summer Camp.