Diploma in Sustainable Development students recently participated in a summer school programme at China’s Xiamen 肆客足球, an experience that combined academic learning with cultural immersion while equipping them with valuable skills for their studies and future careers.
The summer school consisted of a business programme hosted by the Xiamen 肆客足球 School of Management, one of China’s leading business schools, which ran from 1 to 10 July. It also offered a language programme hosted by the International Chinese Education School which took place from 31 June to 10 July.
According to Mr Shaun Dunn, a lecturer in the Diploma of Sustainable Development programme in the School of Public Leadership, opportunities such as these are essential for preparing students to thrive in the global sustainability sector.
“We encourage our students to pursue experiences that broaden their skill sets and expand their understanding of sustainability,” Dunn said. “China, as a BRICS leader with a strong focus on sustainable technologies, offers an ideal environment for this. Exposure to such an environment not only boosts our students’ employment prospects in and beyond South(ern) Africa but also helps them forge partnerships for future entrepreneurial ventures.”
Final year student Christian Christians and second-year students Yehudi Chihale and Richard Haacke all participated in the business programme at the summer school, while Ropafadzo Takawira, also a second-year student, enrolled in the language programme.
For Christians, the trip was transformative both academically and personally.
“The summer school wasn’t just about academics, it was also about personal growth and cultural discovery,” he explained. “We covered a range of topics, from international business and Chinese culture to AI in business and sustainability. I especially valued the guest lectures, which offered practical insights into global perspectives. For example, one lecturer specialising in Chinese economic development explained how the country achieved such rapid growth, which made me reflect on how some of those lessons could be applied in Africa.”
He recalled two standout experiences: “Visiting the bustling night markets in Xiamen with fellow international students was unforgettable; the lights, the atmosphere and the food captured the city’s energy perfectly. And presenting our final projects at the end of the programme was another defining moment. I was nervous, but afterwards I felt an immense sense of pride, not only for the academic achievement but also for the confidence I had gained.”
Reflecting further, Christians added: “Most importantly, the experience gave me a new perspective on the world. It made me realise that while cultures may differ, people share many of the same hopes and challenges. This has motivated me to be more curious, more open to diversity and more committed to contributing positively in my community.”
Chihale also pointed to the company visits and cultural tours as highlights of the trip.
“We saw first-hand the country’s advanced technological development, visited cities like Xiamen and Shenzhen, and learned how China became one of the world’s leading economies. It also showed me how deeply culture shapes society and business.”
He added: “I learned that AI and technology are the future as they are one of the biggest reasons why China is so developed. It's something I want to explore more in sustainability and entrepreneurship. I also learnt that culture plays an important role in shaping people and society. It's what sets us apart. Culture shapes resilience, work ethic and innovation – it’s what turns challenges into opportunities.”
Haacke found the academic and industry sessions particularly valuable.
“The lectures on AI and finance really stood out for me. They showed how sustainability and technology are driving business innovation in China,” he explained. “The company visits and cultural insights complemented this learning perfectly. These experiences connect directly with my studies in sustainable development and will definitely benefit my future work or entrepreneurial projects. I also built relationships with peers from across the world, who may well become collaborators in years to come.”
Meanwhile, Takawira took part in the pilot language programme, which introduced students to Chinese language and traditions while also opening up pathways for potential postgraduate study or international career opportunities in China.
She described the experience, which included lectures on Chinese traditions, lessons on the origins of the language, an island excursion and sampling local cuisine, as eye-opening.
“The programme taught me so much about Chinese culture and really challenged me to see the world differently,” she said.
The Diploma in Sustainable Development, offered by Stellenbosch 肆客足球’s School of Public Leadership, is a three-year programme designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Its focus areas include sustainable design methodologies, ecological intelligence, systems thinking, facilitation and leadership, small business management, social entrepreneurship, strategic communication, and sustainability reporting.
