In a heartwarming display of cultural diplomacy, a diplomatic delegation from various African countries visited Shanghai-based Donghua University on April 18, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between China and Africa.

Two international students from Uganda showcase their traditional clothes and introduce themselves on stage. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn]

The delegation was warmly welcomed by international students from African nations, who proudly showcased their traditional attire while introducing themselves on stage. Joining them were Chinese students dressed in Hanfu, a traditional Chinese garment, adding to the vibrant cultural exchange.

Zhao Mingwei, the director of the university's international cooperation office, highlighted Donghua University's longstanding commitment to educational exchanges with African countries. The institution has a rich history of enrolling international students since 1954 and has deepened its cooperation with African nations through initiatives like the China-Africa 20+20 Universities Cooperation Plan, launched in 2011. Zhao emphasized the enduring impact of these exchanges, citing an African alumna currently working with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization who aims to collaborate on new programs with the university.

Two international students from Ghana showcase their traditional clothes and introduce themselves on stage. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn]

Naila Jessica Roberto Cossa, a student representative from Mozambique pursuing a master's degree in computer science at Donghua University, expressed her pride and excitement at being part of an event that celebrates cultural diplomacy. Reflecting on the strong relationship between China and African countries, she encouraged fellow Africans to pursue educational opportunities in China fearlessly, drawing from her own positive experiences in Shanghai.

Shanghai has always been a city that I have loved ever since I was young because I saw it in magazines and video clips, she said. If you want to seek educational experience in China, do it fearlessly. Many of us did it and we're thriving. You can, too. Don't be scared.

Chinese students from Donghua University showcase Hanfu, a traditional Chinese garment, at the event. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn]

Among the delegates was Cletus Mambo, the director of the Zambia Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies, making his first visit to China. Mambo, who grew up watching Chinese movies and admiring the Chinese way of life, described the trip as a realization of his childhood dreams. As a seasoned diplomat, he emphasized the importance of global cooperation in addressing shared challenges such as climate change, underscoring the significance of initiatives like the one at Donghua University in fostering cultural exchange and knowledge-sharing.

International students from various African countries studying at Donghua University showcase their traditional attire in front of a visiting African diplomatic delegation on April 18, 2025. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn]

Mambo praised the vibrant interactions between African and Chinese students, noting that youths represent the future of bilateral relations between the two regions. He expressed optimism that such exchanges would sow the seeds of lasting friendship and cooperation between China and Africa, emphasizing the role of young people as catalysts for building strong international ties.(chinadaily.com.cn Updated:April 21, 2025 by Gu Yingjie)