Dragon Boat Festival is one of the greatest traditional festivals in China. On May 31, 2022, organized by the International Cooperation and Student Affairs Office, a Dragon Boat Festival cultural event was held for the foreign teachers of Shenzhen Technology University (SZTU). Prof. Ruan Shuangchen, president of SZTU, Prof. Holger Haldenwang, dean of Business School, Prof. Franz Raps, dean of College of Urban Transportation and Logistics, and international teachers from 12 different countries were invited to the event.

The ingredients of making rice dumpling (zongzi) [Photo/International Cooperation and Student Affairs Office]

As one of the major traditional festivals in China, Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated on the fifth day of May in the lunar calendar. People generally eat rice dumplings, race dragon boats, wear perfume pouches, and drink realgar wine during this festive period. For better illustration purposes, the host specially prepared an explanatory leaflet that stated the background and customs of Dragon Boat Festival.

President Ruan is making zongzi and mung bean cake with the foreign teachers. [Photo/International Cooperation and Student Affairs Office]

At the event, President Ruan sent the best festive regards to all the foreign teachers who are away from their hometowns and families. He wished that they would have a clearer insight about the traditional Chinese festival and form a stronger attachment with the local community.

The international teachers are making self-introduction. [Photo/International Cooperation and Student Affairs Office]

Ms. Zeng Siyu, director of International Cooperation and Student Affairs Office, briefed the background and customs of Dragon Boat Festival and presented the perfume pouches that signify good health and fortune. She hoped that the activity would promote mutual cultural understanding amongst the international teachers.

The hands-on session [Photo/International Cooperation and Student Affairs Office]

Zongzi is the indispensable food on Dragon Boat Festival. At the event, the host arranged a mini culinary class for the foreign guests to learn how to make zongzi as well as mung bean cake. Under the guidance and demonstration of the head chef, the participants enjoyed making rice dumplings by themselves. Many of them described making zongzi as a "fun yet challenging" experience.

The event is an initiative to help international teachers better understand the profound Chinese history and enjoy the unique customs, thereby promoting cross-cultural exchanges amongst SZTU staff and creating a harmonious workplace for all.

Drafted by Janet（张芮珊）/ International Cooperation & Student Affairs Office

Revised by International Cooperation & Student Affairs Office

Edited by International Cooperation & Student Affairs Office