Tsinghua University Weiyang College’s BeiChen Program “British Dawn” Delegation Heads to the UK for Social Practice

Youth are not only the future of our nation but also that of the world. In this era of globalization, the role of the youth has become more crucial than ever. As China advances its distinctive major-country diplomacy and works tirelessly to build a community with a shared future for mankind, contemporary Chinese youth are duty-bound to contribute their wisdom and efforts to this great cause. They are the bridge between different cultures and the driving force behind global progress.

From January 17 to January 24, 2025, a delegation of 16 outstanding students from Tsinghua University’s Weiyang College BeiChen Program, known as the “British Dawn” team, embarked on a significant journey to the United Kingdom. Their mission was not only to conduct an in-depth practical investigation but also to build a bridge for academic dialogue between Chinese and British youth. The focus of their exploration was the British research and innovation ecosystem, which they aimed to understand through an innovative lens.

In the span of just 8 days, the delegation had a packed schedule that took them to some of the most prestigious academic institutions in the UK. They visited Imperial College London, the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and University College London. These universities are renowned for their cutting-edge research and world-class academic programs. The students from the “British Dawn” team delved into the intricacies of the UK's scientific research ecosystem, engaging in practical research and forging connections to facilitate academic exchanges between Chinese and British young scholars.

At the exchange event held during their visit, the students from the brigade received high praise from their international peers. They shared their research experiences through academic posters, which showcased the diverse and innovative projects they had been working on back in China. These posters attracted a lot of attention and sparked lively discussions among the attendees. The British students were impressed by the creativity and dedication of their Chinese counterparts, and this exchange event served as a platform for them to learn from each other and build lasting friendships.

Visits to top-tier university laboratories like the Cavendish Laboratory at the University of Cambridge offered the delegation an up-close experience of Britain’s vibrant academic atmosphere. The Cavendish Laboratory is a world-famous institution with a long history of groundbreaking discoveries in physics. The students had the opportunity to tour the laboratory and interact with researchers, gaining insights into the latest advancements in the field. From exploring Cambridge’s storied collegiate traditions to witnessing the industrial transformation at TusPark•Cambridge, the team captured the unique pulse of British technological innovation—a blend of steadfast principles and continuous creativity.

The delegation members noted that this social practice deepened their understanding of technological innovation between China and the United Kingdom. They were able to see firsthand how the two countries approach research and development, and how they can learn from each other’s strengths. They expressed their intention to integrate the insights gained during this trip into their own research plans. By doing so, they hope to contribute to the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind with even greater openness and enthusiasm.

Though their time in the UK was brief, it illuminated the boundless potential for Chinese and British ingenuity to jointly sketch a new vision for human civilization. The “British Dawn” delegation returned to China with a wealth of knowledge and experiences, ready to share their findings with their peers and continue the dialogue between Chinese and British youth. This trip was just the beginning of a long journey of cooperation and mutual learning, and it is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the future of both countries and the world as a whole.