“In just two weeks, we experienced a completely different culture, daily life at a foreign university, and the richness of Malaysian traditions. It broadened our cultural tolerance and understanding, while deepening our pride in our own heritage.”

“We took courses in CPR, anatomy, surgical suturing, and antibiotic sensitivity experiments. I learned a lot about the development of vocational education and healthcare abroad, and it gave me new ideas for my future academic path.”

“The learning environment here left a lasting impression. The hospitality and sincerity of students and faculty at MAHSA University were touching. This learning experience will always be a meaningful part of my life.” — these were reflections from students who participated.

On August 17, 17 students from GHVU concluded a two-week study tour at MAHSA University in Malaysia, part of Guizhou Province’s 'Thousand Students Overseas Study Program' (referred to as the 'Thousand Students Plan'). At the closing ceremony, students shared what they had learned and experienced. They emphasized how the program expanded their professional knowledge and exposed them to international medical education models. Laughter and heartfelt remarks marked both the academic gains and cross-cultural bonds formed.

Guizhou Province has been actively promoting the 'Thousand Students Plan' by selecting outstanding students for short-term study and professional development at partner universities overseas. Jointly funded by the Provincial Department of Education and universities, the program provides students with access to high-quality academic and practical opportunities to strengthen global competitiveness. GHVU’s participation enabled students to broaden their global perspectives, deepen their subject knowledge, and accelerate the university’s internationalization and teaching reform. This initiative also marks a deepening of partnerships between GHVU and overseas institutions, offering strong support to the province’s international education strategies.

As Guizhou’s first vocational undergraduate university, GHVU has always prioritized global engagement. It was among the first higher vocational institutions in the province to launch international cooperation initiatives. As a co-organizer of the China–ASEAN Education Week, GHVU maintains long-standing relationships with Southeast Asian institutions and has signed a cooperation agreement with MAHSA University. From August 5 to 17, students visited MAHSA for a cultural and academic exchange focused on healthcare and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), deepening mutual understanding and advancing international collaboration.

At the closing ceremony, Professor Rusli, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at MAHSA University, stated that study tours not only broaden students’ perspectives but also enrich their understanding of medicine from multiple angles. Exposure to diverse cultures helps build friendships, enhance personal growth, and lay the groundwork for academic and professional development.

This was a vibrant journey of cultural exchange. Malaysia’s multicultural environment offered excellent opportunities to develop students’ intercultural communication skills. Students visited iconic cultural sites such as the National Museum and the Strait of Malacca History Museum, where they gained a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.

By moving the classroom into historical and social spaces, students engaged with local heritage in an immersive way. Such multidimensional experiences fostered dialogue, empathy, and cultural connection.

Student Jia Siyuan remarked: “Every part of the journey was memorable. I am truly happy and excited to share this experience with my family and classmates.”

Student Zhang Ting reflected on how the program helped her witness Malaysia’s development, learn about cultural diversity, and express deep emotional connections through writing.

At MAHSA, students participated in a variety of medical training sessions such as CPR, anatomy, surgical suturing, and antibiotic sensitivity testing. These hands-on activities not only strengthened their technical skills but also highlighted MAHSA’s advanced medical education, providing reference for GHVU’s own instructional reform.

Student He Yu shared that the trip deepened her understanding of Malaysian culture, history, and people, and gave her firsthand experience of university life and academic courses, inspiring a stronger commitment to future studies.

This initiative is a concrete step toward internationalized education. In recent years, GHVU has consistently improved its infrastructure, expanded international cooperation, and worked to cultivate globally competent technical professionals.

As an advocate of global education, GHVU actively pursues international partnerships. Through this study program, it explored deeper collaborations with MAHSA University by offering interdisciplinary academic and cultural experiences. The project also supported the development of the GHVU–MAHSA Clinical Rehabilitation Center and promoted TCM rehabilitation internationally.

A GHVU spokesperson stated that the university will continue to strengthen cooperation with leading global institutions, enhance internationalization, and train students with global outlook and intercultural competence.

Students participate in the opening ceremony of the study tour at Martha University

Students visit the Malacca Strait History Museum

Source: Office of International Exchange and Cooperation

Writers: Chen Yongli, Du Jin

Design: Pan Dexi, Tan Pengfei

Editors: Liu Jingjin, Zhao Xinyi

First Review: Huang Xi

Second Review: Yang Hong

Final Review: Liu Weiqin