Manchester-China Friendship Programme enhances social inclusion on campus

dragon boat teamThe Manchester China Institute has teamed up with the Manchester China Forum (MCF) and the University’s International Office to help integrate new Chinese students into campus life, while simultaneously enriching the campus experience for local students.

The Manchester-China Friendship Programme (MCFP) further seeks to develop mutual understanding and friendships between British and Chinese students, particularly important at a time when Covid-related anti-Asian prejudice, discrimination, and aggression has increased in the UK and around the world—and China’s relations with the West have deteriorated.

The programme consists of Manchester-based “host” students who are tasked with building relationships with newly-arrived Chinese students.  Exciting events are organised throughout the academic year to develop these relationships, such as guided exhibitions, tours of Manchester’s football stadiums, cooking classes, and a host of other social events.  The programme culminates in an end-of-year ceremony where the achievements of the scheme’s participants are recognised. 

For the upcoming year, the MCFP has not only expanded in size but also in its planned activities, which this year include an excursion to the Lake District and a ticket to a Manchester City football match.  In addition, the MCFP will feature a range of practical workshops, where students can polish their resumes and improve overall employability prospects.  Through this prism of Sino-British cultural exchange, Chinese and British students can better understand each other’s cultural backgrounds, learn from one another, and promote the positive development of UK-China relations.