Both BA and MA students of GTK had the opportunity to apply for the Summer School of the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics – Research Institute of Economics and Management (SWUFE RIEM). Five students won the scholarship and participated in the two week long programme in July 2024. The following report is written by one of the participants, Márk Iklódi, student of the Master programme in Regional and Environmental Economics:

„In July 2024, I had the opportunity to participate in a special Summer School in China, after I successfully won the scholarship of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The two-week programme was organised by the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE) in Chengdu, where I had an in-depth look at the Chinese economy and culture, and I had many unforgettable experiences.

During the first week, we focused on the Chinese economy, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking when analysing. We examined topics such as the drivers of economic growth in China, the functioning of the stock market and international economic relations. The presentations were not only informative, but also provided an opportunity to assess China’s role in the world economy in a global context.

The second week focused more on Chinese culture and language. We took part in various craft activities, such as Chinese paper cutting and painting, which helped us to get closer to Chinese traditions. The university also organised memorable excursions, such as a visit to the famous Chengdu Panda Reserve and the exploration of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, which also provided an insight into Chinese history and engineering.

Free days were also an integral part of the programme, where we were free to organise our own activities and trips. This gave us the opportunity to independently explore Chengdu and the surrounding areas. On these days we experienced the day and night life, gastronomy and sights of Chengdu. We visited the city’s famous sights, enjoyed local specialities and experienced the vibrancy of the nightlife. The independent activities were a unique experience and brought us even closer to Chinese culture and daily life.

The modern and imposing campus and the special atmosphere of the university confirmed to me that I was in an extraordinary place. All in all, the Summer University in Chengdu was a fantastic opportunity, not only to learn, but also to discover culture and the world. I returned home with memories to last a lifetime and with new knowledge.”