The International Summer School of Medical Humanities Camp at Wenzhou Medical University, held from June 30th to July 9th, 2024, attracted 13 international students from eight countries. The camp offered activities like Chinese language courses, clinical skills training, traditional Chinese medicine classes, and health maintenance classes. Participants also had immersive experiences of Chinese intangible cultural heritage and visited natural and scenic spots. The event received support from the Office of Foreign Affairs of Wenzhou Municipal People's Government and the Office of the People's Government of Pingyang County.

The visiting students visited Wenzhou Medical University's First Affiliated Hospital, studying the "smart hospital" and information flow, and sharpening cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills at the clinical skills center, gaining valuable practical experience.They also visited the Affiliated Eye Hospital, where they learned about Chinese ophthalmology's innovative development history and micro-surgical skills. They also visited China Eye Valley, a pioneering hub for eye health innovation and entrepreneurship, to understand its business layout and research efforts. The students expressed respect for the valley's achievements and future goals in promoting eye health.

Cultural Heritage Learning

In the traditional Chinese medicine class, students get to savor the herbal tea prepared by the instructor as well as learning about essential concepts like "yin-yang equilibrium" and "qi circulation" and the four diagnostic methods of observation, inquiry, listening, and palpation. They also experienced fire cupping and gua sha therapies in this ancient medical tradition.  Students also demonstrated enthusiasm in Chinese language studies, learning practical daily expressions and engaging in interactive communication to appreciate the charm of the Mandarin language.

Students visited Pingyang and Yongjia to explore Wenzhou's intangible cultural heritage and natural landscapes. They were fascinated by puppet culture at the Pingyang Puppet Art Exhibition Hall, followed by Nanquan Cultural Park, where they experienced the rich history of Chinese martial arts. The Zi Jiu Tea Museum's architectural charm and Pingyang Huang Tea's flavor were also admirable. Mingshan Village showcased egg painting and ceramic art, while Yongjia Academy offered insight into ancient literati wisdom. Liushui, a southern water town, offered traditional handicrafts and folk culture. The journey continued to the clear and green waters of the Nanxi River, where the enchanting charm of nature was captivated.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony of a summer program in Wenzhou, China, was marked by a reflection session where student body and volunteer team representatives shared their experiences. Anastasia Addari from the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Italy was impressed by China's advanced medical technology, information development, cultural heritage, and hospitality. Jan Puliński from the Medical University of Lublin in Poland expressed his gratitude for the warmth and friendliness he encountered during his stay, expanding his medical knowledge and understanding of China's traditional culture. Su Phaya Oo from Stony Brook University in New York State was happy to participate in the program, showcasing the ancient wisdom and modern application of traditional Chinese medicine. The program also facilitated cultural exchanges, offering young students from international universities a more genuine and multi-dimensional view of China. The program promotes meaningful exchanges in medical humanities between China and other countries, building a cross-border platform for intercultural dialogue among young scholars worldwide.