With a sparkling Chinese New Year atmosphere, students and teachers had a lot of fun, enjoying the special activity named Chinese New Year #2.0. at GTIIT on Jan 3.

In the north of China, eating the eight-treasure porridge on the Laba Festival (the 8th day of the 12th lunar month) means the Spring Festival is around the corner. Chinese Character "Fu" writing, paper-cutting and Chinese knot making activities were held on the evening of Jan. 3, the day after the Laba Festival, to extend new year wishes.

Mr. Israel Gutter was the first one to arrive. He was curious about everything placed on the tables. After the students' introductions, he decided to begin with the Chinese character "Fu" writing.

With the guidance of students and several times’ practicing, Mr. Israel Gutter finished his final work.

What does "Nian" mean? How long is the Spring Festival? What are the Chinese Zodiac animals? How many styles are there in Chinese calligraphy? What is the meaning of the Chinese character "Fu"? Students introduced the history and customs of the Spring Festival, which helped the foreign teachers have a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. The activity didn't end as scheduled, which was extended to around 11p.m due to participants' great passion. 

Mr. Chaim and his wife, Ms. Margie also had a wonderful time that night. After finishing a beautiful Chinese knot, Ms. Margie asked if she could make another one under the guidance of the students. "I want to make another one for Chaim, wishing him peace and happiness in the New Year," said Ms. Margie. "Thank you, thank you, thank you. A beautiful evening of learning, laughter and love," said Dr. Connie, after experiencing each of the activities.

A paper-cutting talent

At the end of the activity, Spring Festival couplets and bookmarks made by students were sent home with the participants as special and meaningful gifts.

This was the second time that GTIIT organized this Chinese New Year activity. One of the organizers Yu Yiran said that they organized this activity in order to build a cultural communication platform. Also, they extended their best wishes to all the teachers in the coming new year. "Our teachers actively participated in tonight's activity and they were satisfied with their DIY work. We hope that we can hold this activity year after year, and make it as a tradition of GTIIT," said Lin Wanyi, another organizer of this activity.

Text by Yu Yiran

Photos by Li Ang, Yang Yuexin, Zhong Haoran

Edited by GTIIT News & Public Affairs