Guiyang, China, 26th July 2026 – Eighteen students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), accompanied by Assistant Professor Dr Hasmidar Hassan from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), departed for Guizhou, China, on 26th July 2026, to participate in the prestigious 2026 China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week (CAECW) “Bridge to See Guizhou” International Cultural Exchange Program.
The UBD delegation comprised students from across the university: three from the Academy of Brunei Studies (APB), twelve from FASS, two from the Faculty of Science (FOS), and one from the Faculty of Integrated Technologies (FIT). They joined fellow participants from Malaysia and Indonesia in this week-long programme, which ran from 26th July to 1st. August 2026 in Guiyang City, Guizhou Province. The Head of Delegation for these ASEAN countries was Assoc. Prof. Dr Siti Salina Mustakim from Universiti Putra Malaysia.
Now in its third year, the CAECW “Bridge to See Guizhou” programme has involved students from primary schools, secondary schools, and universities across the region. This year’s edition was held under the theme “Leveraging Smart Education, Building an Amicable Homeland”, with a strong emphasis on digital education cooperation, vocational education, youth exchanges, and cultural immersion. The programme aimed to deepen China-ASEAN educational cooperation, promote people-to-people exchanges, and foster mutual learning among civilisations.
A Week of Discovery, Learning, and Connection
The seven-day itinerary offered UBD students a remarkable blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and cutting-edge technological experiences.
Throughout the programme, participants explored some of Guizhou’s most iconic natural and cultural landmarks, gaining first-hand insights into the province’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Among the highlights were visits to the magnificent Huangguoshu Waterfall, renowned for its spectacular beauty and distinctive karst formations, and the world-famous Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, where participants ventured inside the massive steel structure, experienced a thrilling high-altitude walkway, and admired the dramatic canyon stretching hundreds of metres below.
The programme also offered a deep appreciation of Guizhou’s history and cultural traditions. At Qingyan Ancient Town, participants immersed themselves in the region’s vibrant folk culture and historical architecture. Their cultural journey continued through visits to the Guizhou Provincial Museum and the Wucai Qianyi Museum of Guiyang Vocational and Technical College, where they actively participated in the Cultural Co-Creation Experience Workshop. Hands-on activities, including traditional sachet making, Miao embroidery, painted fan decoration, bean dyeing, and incense stick crafting, provided meaningful opportunities to experience and preserve China’s intangible cultural heritage.
Academic and technological learning formed another key component of the programme. At Guiyang Kangyang University, participants attended specialised sessions on Traditional Chinese Medicine, broadening their understanding of China’s medical heritage. They also engaged in smart technology exploration at Guizhou Industry Polytechnic College, where activities such as 3D printing and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operation showcased the latest technological innovations. Further exposure to advanced technical education was gained through modern intelligent manufacturing courses at Guizhou Polytechnic of Construction, while the UAV Competition encouraged participants to apply their knowledge in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
The programme further enriched participants’ perspectives through academic exchanges and international engagement. Selected participants attended the Empowering Lifelong Learning through Digital Intelligence International Forum at Guizhou Open University, which highlighted contemporary approaches to digital learning and global educational collaboration.
The experience concluded with the Closing Ceremony of the Cultural Co-Creation Experience Workshop and the exciting Z-Generation E-Sports Tournament, celebrating the friendships, cultural exchanges, and collaborative spirit fostered throughout the programme. A farewell dinner featuring Guizhou’s signature sour soup fish provided a memorable ending before participants departed for their respective home countries, bringing to a close a rewarding week of learning, cultural discovery, and international friendship.
Transformative Benefits for UBD Students
The programme proved to be an invaluable experience for the UBD delegation. Students gained first-hand exposure to China’s rapid advancements in ‘Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)’, witnessing how digital intelligence is transforming education and industry. The hands-on workshops in 3D printing, UAV operation, and modern manufacturing provided practical insights into cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future workforce.
Beyond the technical aspects, the cultural exchange deepened students’ appreciation for Guizhou’s rich multi-ethnic heritage. From the intricate artistry of Miao embroidery to the ancient craft of bean dyeing, participants experienced the living traditions of China’s diverse communities.
Student Reflections: Excitement and Gratitude
The UBD students expressed overwhelming excitement and gratitude for the opportunity. Many remarked on the privilege of witnessing up close the customs, traditions, and rapid development of Guizhou’s society. The chance to interact with peers from Malaysia and Indonesia further enriched the experience, fostering cross-cultural friendships and regional understanding that will last well beyond the programme.
“This has been an eye-opening journey,” shared one participant. “Seeing the blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation in Guizhou has given us a new perspective on education and cultural exchange. We are truly grateful to have been part of this incredible programme.”
The 2026 China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week continues to serve as a vital platform for strengthening people-to-people ties between China and ASEAN nations. With plans to invite over 5,000 overseas youths to Guizhou for exchanges and study trips throughout the year, the programme is poised to build an innovative new exchange scenario integrating education, e-sports, cultural tourism, and science popularisation.
