Schools with international relationships, curriculum

Henan province is known for its large population and long history, but today the government is on a quest to develop the talent of the future.

The initiative includes placing importance on international cooperation and exchanges.

Authorities in the Central China province have organized training programs for international and innovative talent at universities and schools across the province, which themselves are reaching out to form sister school partnerships with Western schools and promote multinational educational exchanges.

Universities and colleges in Henan province have a long history of cooperation with foreign universities because they believe it helps improve standards for both learning and teaching while fostering understanding internationally.

Even primary schools are now cultivating bilingual skills in their students.

Formerly known as the Preparatory School for Further Study in Europe and America, Henan University was founded in 1912 as one of three major schools preparing students for overseas study at the beginning of the 20th century.

The university is located in Kaifeng, a historic city that served as the capital of seven dynasties including the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), generally considered a time of great prosperity.

A thousand years ago, the well-known imperial examinations to select talent nationwide were held in Kaifeng.

Today, Henan University has friendship relations with more than 70 colleges in over 40 countries and regions. It is a member of the World Association of Universities and the Association of Universities of Asia and Pacific.

The 2012 Kaifeng International Deleuze Conference for international exchanges on philosophy, art and social sciences was held in Kaifeng in May. About 60 foreign experts attended the conference hosted by the university's Foreign Languages School.

"Learning another language is to learn the history, economy, culture and literature of different countries," said Niu Baoyi, president of the Foreign Languages School. "Expanding students' international horizons can help them understand the language better."

The Foreign Languages School also provides teachers with the opportunity to go abroad to study at sister universities, enhancing mutual understanding through various research and academic exchanges.

"Our teachers get new ideas and we then promote students interest and spur their creativity," Niu added.

The International Education College of Henan University, founded in 2002, focuses on cultivating international talent with a global perspective, resulting in graduates who are familiar with global standards and equipped to participate in international affairs and competition.

Since its establishment, the college has maintained close ties with partner universities in Australia, Germany and Russia. It has now graduated nearly 3,000 students, with more than 1,000 choosing to further their studies at reputable universities overseas.

Zhao Xinshun, president of the college, said that internationalization is deeply embedded in Henan University's cultural tradition.

"The International Education College is a witness to the concept of integrating Chinese and Western teaching styles, and cultivating students morality and abilities," Zhao said.

The province's Shangqiu Normal University is also improving its overall educational quality and developing an international perspective among its students.

Zhou Yunzeng, president of the Foreign Languages School, said the university has collected online resources from renowned overseas schools to help teachers better understand foreign academic research. It also sends teachers to universities overseas.

"We emphasize teaching globalized ideas and imparting a sense of social responsibility to improve students," Zhou said.

The Foreign Languages School now has six courses from foreign universities and invites foreign lecturers to teach, which not only increases peer-to-peer teacher communication but also improves the language skills of students.

"While learning foreign languages, we should connect the Chinese culture with cultures of other nations," Zhou added. "Language is a tool, but the forms of communication are various."

Colorful exchanges

Also opening more to the outside world, many high schools in Henan have begun international cooperation and exchange programs.

Henan Experimental High School founded in 1957 is one of the first provincial model schools. Its students now participate in the International Mathematical Olympiad, and an international debate contest as well as the High-school Model United Nations General Assembly. They have also been admitted into reputable universities worldwide.

"Our international classes get students ready for world competition in the future," said Principal Ma Yuxia. "We develop the abilities of both students and teachers with professional and effective management to help them study better and work harder."

NO 1 Middle School of Zhengzhou founded in 1949 today participates in the Harvard College AUSCR Summit for Young Leaders in China designed to deepen ties between China and the US through a series of projects.

School's Principal Zhu Dan encourages his students to be independent. "To be independent is widely advocated in Western countries. It is beneficial to our students," he said.

Zhengzhou Foreign Language School has a number of international classes taught by foreign teachers and has established partnerships with schools in the US, the United Kingdom and Australia, links that give its students opportunities to study abroad. Many of its graduates have even received scholarships from overseas universities.

"Students should be active and independent when learning and communicating," said Principal Wang Zhongli. "It is important to improve their international perspective and the sense of responsibility."

Zhengzhou No 11 Middle School, the alma mater of China's first female astronaut Liu Yang, has long-term exchange visits and academic relationships with schools in the US, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.

"International exchanges and cooperation will help students explore their potential, open their minds and develop their abilities," said Principal Wang Xinshun. "Our ultimate goal is to strengthen their abilities in cross-cultural communications, as well as their leadership and management skills."

Broadening horizons

The curriculum at Zhengzhou Huimin Middle School, one of the ethnic schools in the provincial capital, is designed to lay the foundation for formation of a healthy personality and all-round development of students.

Principal Li Huanli said the school places emphasis on building up confidence in students.

"Through proper methods, students can obtain knowledge faster and better," he said.

The principal of Zhengzhou Middle School, Gao Zhengqi, said education should integrate international approaches with traditional Chinese culture.

"Today students should have a feeling of