On 7 March 2025, CUPEST members David Grecic, Atillio Carraro, Efstathios Christodoulides, Manolis Adamakis, Biljana Popeska, Francis Ries, Mehvish Bashir, Alexander Hodgson, Ivan Curovic, Aleksander Lekic, together with Prof. Li Ping and Associate Prof. Peng Xiyang from the College of Physical Education of Hunan Normal University—visited the primary and middle school attached to Hunan Normal University and joined pupils in a dynamic, cross-cultural sports exchange.
Under the theme “Sport Knows No Borders, Youth Grows Together”, CUPEST members observed classes, experienced Chinese campus culture and played interactive games, gaining a vivid picture of innovative PE practices in China and forging friendships that bridge continents.
Woodblock Prints Pass on Artistic Charm, Footballs Connect the World
At the cultural-exchange session, a symbolic gift exchange unfolded. The school presented carefully crafted traditional Chinese woodblock prints to the foreign guests, and CUPEST members in return offered a football that carries the spirit of sport. In that moment of giving and receiving, Eastern artistic beauty met Western athletic passion, adding a heartfelt footnote to cultural exchange.
Innovative Classes: A Diverse Curriculum Reflects Educational Philosophy
During the PE demonstration, grade-specific showcase lessons were staged: Lower-grade pupils built fitness through “fun-game” relays; Middle-graders played a tag-style “Catch the Tail” game blended with martial-arts moves; Upper-graders displayed tactical teamwork in a “Basketball Masterclass”.
CUPEST members joined every session, teaming up with the children and introducing new games. “The lessons weave subject integration and teamwork throughout,” they agreed. “This ‘joyful PE’ concept dovetails perfectly with our own ‘sport for life’ philosophy.”
Dialogue for the Future: Little Ambassadors Build Bridges
In the Q&A segment, students fired fluent English questions at the CUPEST members, who introduced signature sports from their home countries and invited the children to try them out. “PE classes in other countries are so much fun!” exclaimed a Grade-6 pupil.
Shared Vision: Sporting Spirit Links the World
Sport is an universal language. Through events like this, we hope pupils will embrace the world with open minds, and international educators will witness the vitality and depth of China’s basic education.
