The 58th IKCEST Training Programme for Silk Road Engineering Science and Technology Development was held on the Xingqing campus of Xi’an Jiaotong University from July 22nd to 26th. This programme was co-hosted by the International Knowledge Centre for Engineering Sciences and Technology (IKCEST) under the Auspices of UNESCO and Xi’an Jiaotong University, and organized by IKCEST Silk Road Training Base. About 60 foreign students from Xi’an Jiaotong University, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an Shiyou University, and Chang’an University participated in this training programme. They were from Belt-road countries such as Pakistan, Yemen, Zambia, Nigeria, etc.

   This programme lasted for five days. Some of the most experienced teachers from Xi’an Jiaotong University gave lectures on the topics of Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, The Internet of Things and Smarter Life, How Foreigners Are Protected in China’s Copyright Industry, Appreciation of Chinese Traditional Culture and Experience of Paper-cutting, and Culinary Delights in China, and Blockchain Technologies and Its Application. The clear and vivid lecturing and examples made these topics deep-going but easy to understand. The students benefited a lot from it and had active discussion with the teacher after the lectures.

   In addition, in order to enable international students to spend a full and enjoyable summer camp, this programme arranged a variety of on-site teaching activities. On the afternoon of July 22nd, trainees visited the Museum of Xi’an Jiaotong University where they enjoyed exquisite collection and wonderful Qinqiang opera performance. After the performance, the students gave a warm applause to the performers and took photos with them. On the afternoon of July 25th, under the guidance of the staff, all trainees visited the National Engineering Research Center for Rapid Manufacturing in Weinan to learn about China’s current modernization, which offered them further understanding the connotation of 3D printing technology and its application, and stronger feeling about the power and strength of Chinese cutting-edge science and technology. What’s more, the foreign students have visited scenic spots and historical sites such as the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower and the Great Wild Goose Pagoda that they felt the unique charm of Xi’an, the ancient capital for a millennium.

   Up till recently, there have been 58 Sessios of IKCEST Training Programmes for Silk Road Engineering Science and Technology Development. As an important mission of the IKCEST Silk Road Training Base, this training programme plays an important role in cultivating talents and promoting the Belt and Road Initiative. In the Meanwhile, it is also exploring the development direction for projects initiated by XJTU, such as University Alliance of the New Silk Road and Silk Road Academy. It also made important contributions to the economic and social development of European, Asian and African Belt-road countries and regions.