Chinese Institute Geneva Foundation (CIG) – Review of Summer 2026 Activities
In the summer of 2026, the Chinese Institute Geneva Foundation (CIG) remained highly active, taking part in a wide range of meaningful initiatives centered on three main areas: institutional exchanges and visits, student summer camps and study tours, and professional development for teachers.
From China’s eastern coast to the northwestern regions, from Beijing to Fujian, we brought with us the experience and perspectives of frontline Chinese-language education in French-speaking Switzerland, strengthened our connections with China—the ancestral homeland of many of our students—and returned with valuable new experiences and inspiration.
I. Institutional Visits · Exploring the Future of Chinese Education Together
CIG Principal Huang Yuna joined a delegation of the World Federation of Young Chinese School Principals on visits to a number of national- and provincial-level overseas Chinese affairs departments and educational institutions:
- July 6 – Shanghai Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese
Presented an overview of the current development of overseas Chinese-language education and shared CIG’s innovative educational practices. - July 7 – Shanghai Overseas Chinese Affairs Office and Overseas Chinese Affairs Service Center
Participated in discussions and was invited to attend the opening ceremony of the “Chinese Language, Overseas Chinese Heart” Summer Study Camp for Overseas Chinese Youth. - Morning of July 8 – Gansu Provincial Overseas Chinese Affairs Office
Held in-depth discussions and experienced the strong support extended by the provincial authorities to overseas Chinese schools. - Afternoon of July 8 – Northwest Normal University
Exchanged views on teacher training, curriculum development, and international Chinese-language education. - July 9 – Gansu Provincial Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese
Participated in meetings during the 32nd China Lanzhou Investment and Trade Fair, exploring new possibilities for connecting education, culture, and economic exchange. - July 10–12 – Guizhou Provincial Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese
With strong support for overseas Chinese education, a valuable roots-seeking study program was organized for young people of Chinese heritage. Students from 13 overseas Chinese schools in 13 countries formed the “World Youth Roots-Seeking and Dream-Chasing Team” and experienced the hugely popular Village Super League (“Cun Chao”). - July 22 – China Chinese Language Education Foundation
Met with Secretary-General Yu Xiao and other representatives to discuss the future development of overseas Chinese-language education. - Morning of July 23 – Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange, Ministry of Education
Held in-depth discussions on academic credential recognition for overseas Chinese students and the development of two-way international study and educational exchange programs. - Afternoon of July 23 – Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council
Met with Director Qiu Liguo and other officials, received updates on relevant policies, shared challenges encountered by overseas Chinese schools, and experienced the strong support provided to Chinese-language education overseas. - July 24 – All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese
Attended the award ceremony of the 26th World Chinese Students’ Essay Competition and participated in discussions with Minister Che Zhuangli.
In addition, Principal Huang Yuna attended a Chinese-language education expert symposium organized by the World Federation of Young Chinese School Principals in Beijing. She held in-depth exchanges with institutions including Beijing Chinese Language and Culture College, Beijing No. 4 High School Online School, and Huaqiao University, laying the groundwork for future cooperation in localized Chinese-language teaching, AI-supported curriculum development, and other areas.
II. Student Summer Camps & Study Tours · Discovering China and Exploring Cultural Roots
This summer, CIG organized nearly 30 young people of Chinese heritage and international students to participate in several themed summer camps and study programs across eastern, northern, and southern China. Through travel and hands-on experiences, students deepened their understanding of Chinese culture.
July 5–14 · Shanghai
The “World Youth China Journey – Jiangsu, Shanghai and Hangzhou Science & Technology Camp” brought together 95 young people of Chinese heritage from 11 countries. The students began their summer journey through a rich combination of science, technology, and culture.
July 9–18 · Beijing
The “Embrace China · 2026 Roots-Seeking Journey – Haidian Camp” opened on the campus of Beijing Normal University. The students spent ten rewarding days discovering the history, culture, and vitality of China’s capital.
July 20–30 · Guangxi
During the “Embrace China · 2026 Roots-Seeking Journey – Guilin/Yulin Camp,” the CIG Arts Troupe was invited to perform at the opening ceremony. Ms. Chen Jieying, President of the Guangxi Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, presented the camp flag to CIG Principal Huang Yuna.
August 2–11 · Fujian
The study tour themed “Fujian-Style Life, Youth Together” officially began. Principal Huang Yuna delivered remarks on behalf of the delegation leaders, while CIG students presented performances including “Edelweiss” and traditional dance.
August 4–10 · Guangdong
CIG student Ding Yiqiao was invited to participate in the finals of the “Young China Speaks” New Generation Overseas Chinese Youth Ambassador Selection Competition. At the former residence of Liang Qichao, the student demonstrated the confidence and spirit of a new generation of overseas Chinese youth before joining a seven-day cultural study program.
III. Teacher Training · Professional Development During the Summer
CIG teachers also made full use of the summer break to participate in professional development programs across China.
Through systematic training, the team gained new knowledge and practical experience in teaching methodology, classroom management, the promotion of Chinese culture, and school administration, bringing renewed energy and inspiration to teaching and management in the new academic year.
Programs attended included:
- 2026 Advanced Program on Chinese Culture for Principals of Overseas Chinese Schools – Hangzhou, Zhejiang
- 2026 Professional Development Programs for Overseas Chinese-Language Teachers:
- Qingdao University – Qingdao, Shandong
- Hefei Preschool Education College – Hefei, Anhui
- Shanxi University – Taiyuan, Shanxi
- Jimei University – Xiamen, Fujian
Conclusion
The summer of 2026 was a dynamic and rewarding season for CIG. Through institutional exchanges, student study programs, and teacher professional development, we advanced on three fronts simultaneously.
These initiatives not only provided a bridge for a new generation of overseas Chinese youth to discover China and reconnect with their cultural roots, but also enabled the voice and experience of Chinese-language education in Switzerland to reach a wider audience.
Looking ahead, CIG will continue to dedicate itself to Chinese-language education, nurture the cultural roots of young people of Chinese heritage overseas, and work hand in hand with educators and partners around the world toward an even brighter future.
