本次活动既是亲近自然、探索秋日胜景的赏秋之旅，也是寻访古迹、感受文化脉搏的人文之旅。活动中，师生同游于山水之间，其乐融融，与远道而来的国际友人共同登高，欢声笑语不断。一路上，来自五湖四海的朋友在文化交流互动中彼此熟悉，共同走过涉水穿林的路程，结下深厚的情谊。站在长城上，看到雄关古道的蜿蜒不绝、刚劲无边，让人由衷感受到万里长城永不倒的英雄气魄，同时也体会到四海之内皆兄弟的万丈豪情。这一段难忘的经历，增强了我传播和讲述中国故事的文化自觉，也鼓舞着我为推动中外友好交流身体力行。
——国发院2023级博士研究生 刘源
通过本次实践拓展活动，我认识了很多来自全球各地的朋友们，在大家齐心协力共同攀登长城的过程中，我切身感受到长城所象征的毅力与智慧，同时攀登至顶峰时的壮丽景象也让我深受震撼。未来我以更加积极的态度传播中华传统文化，推动中外交流互鉴。
——国发院2023级博士研究生 王翼阳
能够参加这次水长城上的初党学习活动，我深感荣幸与激动。此次活动不仅是一次身体上的挑战，更是一次心灵上的洗礼。站在古老的城墙上，绵延起伏的山脉让我想到中华民族的伟大与坚韧。重走先辈们的足迹，我更加深刻地理解了“不忘初心，牢记使命”的内涵。在党的领导下，我们应当继承和发扬革命先烈的精神，面对困难不退缩，勇往直前。这次初党学习也让我意识到作为新时代的青年，应该更加努力提升自我，为坚持和发展中国特色社会主义、为实现共产主义远大理想不懈奋斗。
——新结构院2022级博士研究生 牛衍宸
I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the hiking event to the Great Wall organized by the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development. The experience was inspiring and enriching, blending physical activity with a deeper connection to history and culture.
The event was exceptionally well organized, with the Institute’s team ensuring every aspect was thoughtfully planned, from transportation to safety measures and guides. The hike offered breathtaking views of the Great Wall, which was awe-inspiring and reminded me of the importance of preserving such historical sites for future generations.
What stood out most was the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by a shared interest in culture, nature, and sustainability. The event was about physical activity and fostering meaningful conversations around cooperation, development, and mutual learning. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the sense of community was palpable. I also have the opportunity to make friends with other Chinese students from other programs
Overall, this hiking trip was a chance to challenge oneself physically and a beautiful reminder of the importance of historic preservation and international collaboration. I highly recommend participating in future events like this, as they offer personal growth and an invaluable opportunity for cross-cultural exchange. Thanks to the organizers and volunteers. I enjoyed the hiking and we looked forward to such wonderful memories in a once-in-a-lifetime. Thanks to ISSCAD. I am grateful for this opportunity.
——南南学院2024级博士研究生 Joseph
A million thanks to the organizers for granting us this golden opportunity to see and climb the great wall of china. This is a moment I will forever cherish.
——南南学院2024级硕士研究生 Jane Taylor
The unforgettable Great Wall hike experience Gratitude to the organizers and friends who ensured the soldier's survival making it a truly memorable adventure.
——南南学院2024级硕士研究生 Bello
Thank you Laoshi so much for organizing such amazing experience and big thank you for the best leaders and kind team mates for helping and taking care of everyone making sure no one is left behind~i.e, me
I'm writing to express my sincere gratitude for organizing such an incredible team-building activity. The 8.8 km hike to the Great Wall 黄花城水长城 was undoubtedly the best team-building experience I've ever had.
Despite being the last one in the group, I felt incredibly supported by team leader and my classmates who helped me navigate through the challenging terrain of rocks and water. I'm also deeply grateful to the amazing teachers for planning such a memorable hike.
I'm truly proud of myself for completing the entire distance, including all those daunting stairs. At times, I doubted my ability to finish, but thanks to the encouragement and support of the leaders and my team, I persevered.
The two months of hard work leading up to this trip have made it even more special. I'm incredibly thankful to ISSCAD for providing this opportunity.
Thank you once again for organizing such a fantastic event. I'll cherish the memories of this hike for a long time to come.
——南南学院2024级博士研究生 Mariam
The hiking trip to the Great Wall with the ISSCAD and NSD family was an unforgettable experience. Initially, we divided into 7 groups to make it easier to count people and quickly notice if anyone was missing. Hiking brought us closer as we supported each other on the steep mountain slopes and while crossing streams. We broke the ice, enjoyed conversations while walking, and shared many laughs. Later, we had a lively, 'panic-style' hot meal with friends and professors. The trip was full of memorable moments, including playing game that we had to complete to continue the journey. At first, the assigned task seemed impossible, but through teamwork and brainstorming, we managed to solve the puzzles and moved forward. When we reached the mountain top, the breathtaking view and refreshing breeze took away our tiredness. It was definitely worth joining and an incredible experience!
——南南学院2023级博士研究生 Chaw Kay Khaing
Hiking along the Great Wall of China was an experience that stirred my spirit and deepened my appreciation for history and natural beauty. There’s an indescribable feeling that arises as you walk upon the ancient stones, tracing the path of countless footsteps before you, with the vast landscapes stretching endlessly in every direction. Each step carried a sense of awe and wonder, making it more than just a hike—it felt like a journey through time itself.
Adding to the magic of the day were the wonderful people I had the chance to meet. My fellow hikers, warm, welcoming, and full of camaraderie, made each moment brighter. It was a joy to forge new friendships along the way, surrounded by such kindness and shared enthusiasm. I can’t speak highly enough of the ISSCAD staff and organizers from the National School of Development. Their meticulous planning and thoughtful approach turned what could have been a simple hike into an unforgettable adventure. Every detail was perfectly arranged, from the logistics to the timing, ensuring that our only focus was to enjoy the experience fully. The warmth and dedication of the ISSCAD team have truly made every activity here exceptional, and this hike was yet another beautiful reminder of the high standards and spirit of community that define my time at the school. This day on the Great Wall, filled with new friends, breathtaking views, and flawless organization, will remain a treasured memory.
——南南学院2024级硕士研究生 Safin
1)The event was well-planned, and I enjoyed every moment of it. I would definitely attend again!
2)I liked the section of the Great Wall ISSCAD chose & the best season, because everything looks better colored by the red leaves of autumn.
3)The event provided many opportunities for networking, and I met several interesting people. The organizers did a great job facilitating networking activities.
4)The catering was exceptional! The food was delicious and amazingly hot food and the options were varied. ISSCAD provided us enough water & other soft drinks.
5)The photographers were friendly and professional. They captured amazing photographs.
6)The team leaders were helpful and very caring. But, English language was the barrier.
——南南学院2024级博士研究生 Tesfa