The 2024 Immersion Hub International Student Short-term Program commenced at Guoshun Road campus of Shanghai Open University (SOU) on June 24. Ms. Zhang Jin, SOU's Vice President, attended the opening ceremony and delivered a speech.

In her speech, Zhang Jin, on behalf of SOU, stated that the Immersion Hub International Student Program aims to promote global cultural understanding and friendship. It is a significant initiative of SOU to practice lifelong learning and advance educational internationalization. She encouraged students to cherish the learning opportunity, actively engage in studies, and deeply exchange ideas, contributing to future inter-university cooperation and cultural exchanges.

At the opening ceremony, participating international students shared their thoughts, expressing strong interest in the Chinese language, Chinese culture, and the fashion industry.

Officials from the overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Shanghai Municipal People’s Government and Shanghai International Fashion Education Center (SIFEC), and relevant staff from the three organizers attended the opening ceremony. The ceremony was hosted by Weng Zhuhua, Dean of the Institute of International Exchange.

Since its inception, the Immersion Hub International Student Short-term Program has been held ten times, attracting over 800 students from more than 50 countries. It has become a flagship activity in SOU's international exchange and cooperation program. This year's program, themed Chinese + Fashion, is jointly organized by SOU, the overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Shanghai Municipal People’s Government, and SIFEC. A total of 29 international students from 14 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Brazil, Indonesia, and Namibia, are participating. For the first time, students from Japan, Moldova, and Panama are also taking part.