From June 23 to 27, the Confucius Institute at the University of Miskolc in Hungary (hereinafter referred to as “Miskolc CI”) held its annual local summer camp. Tailored to the interests and learning characteristics of local students, the camp featured a variety of engaging Chinese language and culture courses, attracting 12 teenagers from Miskolc and nearby areas. Through a week of immersive experiences, participants gained a deeper understanding of China and enjoyed a remarkable journey of exploring Chinese language and culture.
Remarks by Zhao Jing
Remarks by Dániel Kuttor
Summer Camp Participants Design Cultural T-shirts
On the morning of June 23, nearly 30 participants—including Hungarian Director Dr. Dániel Kuttor, Chinese Director Zhao Jing, the students, and Confucius Institute teachers (hereinafter referred to as “CI teachers”)—gathered at Miskolc CI for the opening ceremony. Both directors delivered welcoming remarks, warmly greeting students from across Hungary and encouraging them to embrace the charm of Chinese culture, build friendships, and enjoy a fulfilling week. An ice-breaking activity titled “Find a Friend” quickly fostered a sense of connection among the group.
Chinese Language Class
Camp Participants Learn Chinese Paper Cutting
Camp Participants Learn to Make Dumplings
Camp Participants Learn Chinese Knotting
Camp Participants Explore Movable-Type Printing
The camp’s diverse curriculum included Chinese language lessons and cultural activities like paper cutting, tea ceremonies, movable-type printing, dancing, and trying on traditional Chinese clothing. CI teachers guided students through practical basics such as numbers and greetings. Chinese government-sponsored teacher Fan Liyun provided insights into Chinese characters and calligraphy. The cultural courses skillfully blended traditional and modern elements, offering classic practices such as calligraphy, paper-cutting, tea arts, and movable-type printing, alongside contemporary activities like T-shirt design and Chinese song learning, ensuring both enjoyment and meaningful learning.
Traditional Chinese Costume Fashion Show at Closing Ceremony
Chinese Dance Performance at Closing Ceremony
On June 27, the week-long summer camp concluded in a festive atmosphere. At the closing ceremony, Hungarian director Dr. Dániel Kuttor highly praised the students’ outstanding performance and extended his best wishes. Chinese director Zhao Jing also affirmed the students’ learning achievements. The two directors jointly presented certificates and gifts to top performers. The event opened with a vibrant traditional costume fashion show, followed by students’ performances of Baduanjin, the folk song “Jasmine Flower”, and the Chinese dance “Myth,” all of which they had learned during the week.
Group Photo of Some Camp Participants and Miskolc CI Teachers
The summer camp earned enthusiastic praise from participants. Its success not only opened a window into Chinese culture and provided a platform for language learning but also strengthened China-Hungary cultural ties, setting the stage for future activities.