AIU Students Summarize the International Summer School in China

Although the First International AIU – 2026 Summer School held in Astana has concluded, this large-scale project continues to unfold. Currently, students of the «International Business» double-degree educational program from Astana International University and the University of International Business and Economics are spending their summer break in China. Organized by the leadership of these universities, the summer school initiative aims to foster bilateral educational development and train qualified specialists. Today, this strategic project has become an integral part of the joint activities carried out by the Kazakhstan-China Institute of International Business and Economics.

This year, from July 19 to 29, a delegation consisting of 28 double-degree students and two faculty members from Astana International University participated in the 4th International Summer School of the Kazakhstan-China Institute of International Business and Economics. This event brought together the UIBE educational program in Beijing and the New Eurasian Land Bridge International Talent Exchange Program implemented by Jiangsu Ocean University in Lianyungang. Organized for the fourth consecutive year, the summer school unites students and young professionals from more than ten countries, serving as an international platform for studying economics, international cooperation, Chinese culture, and advancing intercultural dialogue.

The first stage of the program took place in Beijing on the campus of UIBE. The students explored China’s historical and cultural heritage by visiting the Great Wall and the Imperial Palace, and attended a special lecture dedicated to the modern development of the «Belt and Road» initiative. The program enabled participants to gain a deeper understanding of China’s role in contemporary international economic processes and discuss the prospects of Eurasian cooperation.

From July 22 to 29, the summer school continued in Lianyungang at Jiangsu Ocean University under the New Eurasian Land Bridge International Talent Exchange Program. The educational curriculum featured lectures on the «Belt and Road» initiative, Lianyungang's role in international logistics, the history and culture of the region, as well as the cultural heritage associated with the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West.

Particular emphasis was placed on exploring China's contemporary economic development. The students visited the SCO Logistics Park, the China-Kazakhstan International Logistics Base, and the Port of Lianyungang – a key eastern hub of the New Eurasian Land Bridge and Kazakhstan’s maritime gateway to China, which plays a vital role in boosting transport and logistics cooperation between the two nations. Additionally, the itinerary included visits to the JD Logistics smart logistics park, the Yanghe Distillery enterprise, and the Donghai County Crystal Industrial Park.

Consequently, an immersive cultural and educational program became an essential component of the summer school. Students engaged in practical Chinese language classes, a Chinese language speed-proficiency competition, traditional culture masterclasses, explored intangible cultural heritage sites of China, and tested their skills in various sports activities, including kayaking and dragon boat racing. Collaborative work in international teams helped foster intercultural communication, leadership, and project-based interaction skills in a multinational environment.

The final stage of the program featured team project presentations, the closing ceremony, and an international youth festival, where participants showcased the outcomes of their joint efforts, exchanged experiences with peers from various countries, and received certificates of successful completion of the International Summer School. A special highlight of the final day was a cultural concert, during which the delegation from Astana International University proudly showcased Kazakhstan's national culture, introducing participants to Kazakh traditions and contributing to the strengthening of intercultural dialogue, friendship, and mutual understanding among youth from around the globe.

For the double-degree program students, participating in the summer school was not only an opportunity to expand their knowledge in international economics, logistics, and Chinese culture, but also a crucial milestone in personal development. Furthermore, this large-scale initiative has further strengthened the partnership between Astana International University and the University of International Business and Economics, making a substantial contribution to promoting international-standard education and fostering friendship among nations.