Postgraduate Students of VVSU Participate in International Educational Festival in Harbin
First-year postgraduate students of the VVSU Creative Industries Institute — Lin Tong, Lian Zhengming, and Peng Limin — took part in the International Festival of Cultural-Educational Practices titled "From Heart to Heart Without Borders. Dialogue Between Chinese and Russian Cultures," held in the city of Harbin.
The festival was a platform for creative and professional exchange between representatives of both countries. Postgraduates were invited as participants in the exhibition and as experts, evaluating schoolchildren''''s creative works within the competition-exhibition "Cultural Codes of China and Russia."
Immersing in Culture and Language
Throughout all five days of the festival, postgraduates closely interacted with Russian participants, having a chance to significantly improve their Russian language skills and gain deeper insights into Russian cultural peculiarities.
"This was a unique opportunity to practice in languages. I also had an opportunity to see how my Russian colleagues enthusiastically take Chinese traditions and folk art. I was particularly impressed by talented Chinese children. We discussed, debated, laughed together — it''''s the best way to learn from each other," shared Taisiia Russkikh, a VVSU student.
Educational Dialogue: From Kindergarten to University
As part of the trip, postgraduates visited various educational institutions ranging from kindergartens to high schools and universities.
"It was especially valuable for us to observe the Chinese education system and traditional culture through the eyes of our Russian guests. Many things that seem ordinary to us were perceived differently by them, leading to questions and making us reflect," said Peng Limin.
Harbin Is a City Where Cultures Meet
This trip gave postgraduates the chance to experience Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang province, known for its rich history intertwined with Russian emigration. At local museums, they explored archival materials, photographs, and artifacts reflecting centuries-old friendship between China and Russia.
"Harbin is an amazing place where you can feel the spirit of two cultures. We discovered much about Russians who once lived here and their contribution to the city''''s development. It brings people closer," noted Lian Zhengming.
Friendship Begins With Dialogue
For participants, the festival became more than just a professional event—it turned personal.
"I am very happy because during this trip, I made a Russian friend named Taisiia Russkikh. We continue communicating, and that''''s what matters most—when cultural exchange evolves into genuine friendship," warmly stated Peng Limin.
Festival organizers appreciated the quality preparation of VVSU postgraduates and thanked them for contributing to building a "friendship bridge" between Russia and China.
"Such projects create a strong bond between young people of China and Russia, enhancing mutual understanding and opening up new horizons for cooperation," added Lin Tong.
Vladivostok State University is proud of its postgraduate winners representing the Russian delegation and supports their commitment to international dialogue!