Intl students experience lotus harvesting in Ningbo

International students show some of the lotus flowers they picked. [Photo/Tide News]

Chinese and international students from Ningbo University's Business School donned rubber waders on July 15 and ventured into a lotus pond in Sizhang village, Fenghua district, Ningbo, for a hands-on farming experience.

Guided by faculty and local farmers, the 20-plus students spent the early morning in the village picking lotus flowers and pods, gaining an insight into the traditional role of the lotus picker.

The event was part of the school's "Mobile Cultural Classroom" that was launched in collaboration with Jinping subdistrict. Each month, student representatives participate in local community activities aimed at deepening cultural understanding and fostering community engagement.

Sudanese student Zeina Saeed was the first to brave the muddy terrain. "It looked easy but was actually tough. I really respect lotus farmers now," she said. Indonesian student William Leslie added: "I felt like I stepped into an ancient Chinese poem".

After harvesting, students packaged lotus produce and took it to Fenghua's urban area for a charity sale. Proceeds were then donated to children in need.

Xu Lifeng, a group leader, emphasized the program's goal: Integrating academic learning with local development and encouraging students to contribute their skills to China's rural vitalization efforts.

An international student poses for a photo with some lotus flowers. [Photo/Tide News]