Opening New Doors for a Global Future
24 October – 1 November 2026 | Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
A journey of learning, discovery, and new possibilities!
Together with Laoshi Heny, Head of Chinese Language at Tabgha Education Centre (TEC), I had the opportunity to visit Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China, at the invitation of Nanchang University, through the “Belt and Road” Chinese Language Education Exchange Program.
This was more than an international educational visit. It was an opportunity to explore how we can open wider horizons for our students, strengthen our Chinese Language Program, and build meaningful international partnerships. And, most importantly, it became a journey filled with God's grace and wonderful opportunities.
A City to Learn and Grow
Our first impression of Nanchang was truly remarkable.
Nanchang is a peaceful, clean, and well-organized city, with a beautiful combination of modern technology, historical heritage, and Chinese culture. The city feels safe, its people are welcoming, and its environment offers a comfortable atmosphere for learning and living. Throughout our visit, we experienced not only the academic environment but also the warmth of the people we met along the way.
From university students who volunteered to accompany international guests to teachers and school leaders who warmly welcomed us, every interaction became a valuable learning experience.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The program brought together educational institutions from China, Spain, and Indonesia.
Participating institutions included:
China
The Affiliated School of Nanchang University
Nanchang No. 5 High School
Nanchang No. 2 High School
Nanchang No. 3 High School
Indonesia
Sekolah Lokon St. Nikolaus, Tomohon
Sekolah Stella Gracia, Makassar
Sekolah Zion, Makassar
Tabgha Education Centre, Batam
Spain
Delegation from Castilla La Macha
Throughout the program, we participated in university activities, Mandarin language lessons, school visits, cultural exchanges, and international discussions.
1. Discovering Nanchang University
Our journey officially began with a welcoming reception and dinner at Nanchang University on October 26.
We were impressed by its spacious, clean, and well-maintained campus, offering a peaceful, safe, and comfortable environment for learning. International students live in campus dormitories, allowing them to enjoy convenient and supportive university life while focusing on their studies.
Beyond its impressive facilities, Nanchang University also offers a strong academic environment, supported by experienced professors and quality teaching. We were privileged to attend lectures and learn directly from outstanding professors, gaining valuable insights into Chinese language education.
We also had the opportunity to interact with Indonesian and international students from Pakistan and China, learning about their experiences studying at Nanchang University.
This visit strengthened our confidence in introducing Nanchang University as a promising pathway for our students' future education in China.
2. Learning Mandarin Through Chinese Proverbs
One of the most interesting academic experiences was attending an International Chinese Language Education class led by Professor Xu Cai Xia. The lesson introduced us to the beauty of learning Mandarin through Chinese proverbs (成语 – Chéngyǔ). Most Chinese idioms consist of four characters and carry meaningful stories, historical backgrounds, and moral lessons.
Some of the idioms introduced during the lesson included:
笨鸟先飞 (Bèn niǎo xiān fēi) – A slow bird must start early. A reminder that hard work and preparation can lead to success.
上善若水 (Shàng shàn ruò shuǐ) – The highest goodness is like water. A lesson about humility and kindness.
负荆请罪 (Fù jīng qǐng zuì) – To sincerely admit one's mistake and ask for forgiveness.
画龙点睛 (Huà lóng diǎn jīng) – The finishing touch that brings something to life.
掩耳盗铃 (Yǎn ěr dào líng) – Fooling oneself by refusing to face the truth.
It was fascinating to discover how language learning can become more meaningful when connected to culture, stories, and values. This is also something we hope to bring into our Chinese Language Program at TEC: learning a language is not simply about memorizing vocabulary, but also understanding the people and culture behind it.
3. Experiencing School Life in China
We visited The Affiliated High School of Nanchang University, where we were warmly welcomed by the school community.
Our visit included:
Observing elementary students' classroom activities.
Participating in craft lessons with secondary students.
Enjoying student performances in the school auditorium.
One memorable moment was seeing how enthusiastic the students were about interacting with international visitors. They were excited to communicate and share their learning experiences. We also had an initial discussion about the possibility of future teacher visits and student learning collaborations between our schools.
4. Visiting Nanchang No. 5 High School
Another important milestone was our visit to Nanchang No. 5 High School on October 28. We had the opportunity to meet Mr. Cai, the school's International Department Director, and discuss potential areas of collaboration. We also experienced a Mandarin lesson with international students and met Indonesian university students who shared their experiences studying in China. Their stories provided valuable insights into the opportunities available for students who wish to pursue higher education in China.
October 29: A Milestone for Tabgha Education Centre
Some moments in a journey become milestones that we will remember for a long time. October 29, 2026, was one of those moments for Tabgha Education Centre. By God's grace, during the MOU signing ceremony and Roundtable Forum at Nanchang University, we officially established two important international partnerships.
1. School Base of Nanchang University
Tabgha Education Centre officially became a School Base of Nanchang University, creating a foundation for further cooperation in Chinese language education. This partnership represents an important step towards strengthening our Mandarin program and exploring opportunities for academic and cultural exchange.
2. Sister School of Nanchang No. 5 High School
We also signed an MOU with Nanchang No. 5 High School, officially establishing a sister-school partnership. This opens opportunities for future student and teacher exchanges, collaborative learning, and international educational activities. We also had an initial conversation with Ms. Zhou, the Principal of the Affiliated School of Nanchang University, regarding possible online learning collaborations. The idea is to connect students from Indonesia and China through short videos, online classes, and cultural learning projects. Students from Early Years, Primary, Junior High, and Senior High could all have opportunities to participate. Imagine our students introducing Indonesian traditions, language, and culture to their friends in China, while discovering Chinese culture through their international friends. These partnerships are not simply about signing documents. They are about creating real opportunities for our students.
Exploring the Beauty of Nanchang
Beyond the academic activities, we also had opportunities to explore the city's historical and cultural attractions. Some of the memorable places we visited included:
Wanshou Palace Historical and Cultural Block.
Tengwang Pavilion and the Tengwang Cruise experience.
Qiushui Square.
Meiling Tianjing Lake Scenic Area.
Each destination offered a different perspective on Chinese history, culture, architecture, and everyday life.
These experiences reminded us that international education is also about learning to appreciate different cultures and perspectives.
Preparing Our Students for a Global Future
As we returned to Batam on November 1, we brought home more than photographs, souvenirs, and memories. We brought home new connections, valuable insights, fresh inspiration, and opportunities for our school community. At Tabgha Education Centre, we believe education should prepare students not only for academic success but also for an increasingly connected world. Our students deserve opportunities to communicate across cultures, explore new perspectives, develop language skills, and discover possibilities beyond their own borders. We may be a school in Batam, Indonesia, but our students can dream, learn, and grow globally. All of this is possible because of God's grace and the people He brings into our journey.
We thank Nanchang University for the invitation, warm hospitality, and opportunities to collaborate. We also appreciate all the professors, school leaders, teachers, student volunteers, and fellow Indonesian delegates who made this journey meaningful.
This is just the beginning.
Discover. Connect. Grow with Us.
Tabgha Education Centre – Growing Stronger As One
Miss Tee - Head of School