When I first stepped off the plane in Urumqi, China, the sheer energy of the city was palpable. I was there for a professional training programme that promised not only to enhance my skills but also to immerse me in a culture vastly different from my own. Over the next two weeks, I would navigate bustling streets, participate in intensive workshops, and forge connections with colleagues from Xinjiang. This journey, rich with new experiences and challenges, became a transformative chapter in my personal and professional life. To my surprise instead of class intensive study, the program was more of an experiential learning kind.
My visit to China, particularly Xinjiang province, was an enriching experience that highlighted the region's cultural diversity, culinary delights, shopping experiences, and rich history. During my stay, I was struck by the absence of homelessness, even late at night, and the overwhelmingly friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. Two incidents particularly stand out: while shopping in a mall in Urumqi, I accidentally left my phone behind at a shop. The shopkeeper promptly and concernedly returned it to me, an act that was both surprising and heartwarming. In another instance, two of my colleagues visited a restaurant for dinner. Upon leaving, one of them dropped an envelope containing $950. As they were about to depart for the hotel, a waiter hurriedly returned the envelope to them. These acts of honesty and kindness left a lasting impression on me, highlighting the integrity and hospitality of the people I encountered.
Visiting Beijing, the capital city of China, was an enlightening experience. Beijing, recognised as one of the most advanced cities globally, has made significant strides in environmental restoration. One aspect that particularly impressed me was how Beijing has managed to restore its low temperatures and improve air quality over time. Remarkably, Beijing is the second city in the world, after London, to achieve such a feat in weather restoration.
No visit to Beijing is complete without experiencing the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Climbing to the top point of the Wall, despite the clumsy weather and light rain, was a unique and exhilarating experience. The panoramic views and the historical significance of the Wall made it a truly memorable part of my trip.
Beijing’s success in improving air quality and weather conditions through extensive urban and peri-urban plantations is commendable. To address the severe smog issues in our major cities, particularly those most affected, we need to adopt similar measures
As part of my experiential learning, attending an event at a Xinjiang Theatre was an unforgettable highlight. There, I witnessed the rich cultural tapestry of China, with performances showcasing the country's strong history and the vibrant diversity of its 56 different ethnicities. The artists delivered a marvelous performance, with some acts being so emotionally powerful that they brought tears to the eyes of the audience. This experience deepened my appreciation for China's cultural heritage and left a lasting impression on me.
When discussing some of the challenges I encountered, I found that the language barrier was a significant issue, particularly in Urumqi. It was challenging to communicate when taking a cab to visit markets. However, our course facilitators mentioned that there is a strong emphasis on teaching English to children, and they are hopeful that this will not be a barrier in the future. Interestingly, most shopkeepers in Urumqi know multiple languages, making interactions smoother in commercial settings. Another notable aspect was the high ratio of female shop owners. It was remarkable to see that over 90% of the shops were run by women. This substantial female participation in the retail sector is a significant contributor to China's economy, reflecting the progressive strides in gender equality in business.
While immersing myself in Chinese culture, I found much to admire and learn. Punctuality is deeply ingrained in their lifestyle, unlike in Pakistan, where timeliness is often less emphasised. The streets, including small alleys, are remarkably clean, with no litter in sight. Another notable observation was the management of construction sites within city limits. These sites are usually well-covered, minimising noise and pollution, a practice we could greatly benefit from.
Beijing’s success in improving air quality and weather conditions through extensive urban and peri-urban plantations is commendable. To address the severe smog issues in our major cities, particularly those most affected, we need to adopt similar measures. Additionally, China’s early adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has significantly improved environmental conditions and fuel efficiency. Starting the day early, as the Chinese do, could also enhance our energy efficiency and boost individual productivity. These cultural and environmental practices offer valuable lessons that could significantly benefit our own cities and communities.
China is an arms-free country, a policy that significantly reduces violent extremism and terrorism. Adopting similar measures in Pakistan could yield substantial benefits
Reflecting on this training programme, we must adopt punctuality and time management, key elements in the Chinese way of life. Emulating the Chinese approach to daily routines, which emphasises proactive planning, can enhance our productivity. During my stay, I learned that China is an arms-free country, a policy that significantly reduces violent extremism and terrorism. Adopting similar measures in Pakistan could yield substantial benefits. Additionally, China's widespread use of digital payment systems, even among small vendors, is impressive. Implementing such cashless transactions can help us create a more documented economy and improve tax collection. We also need to embrace the values of honesty and integrity, as exemplified by the Chinese people in the incidents I mentioned earlier. Promoting these values within our society and celebrating individuals who embody them can help us redefine our heroes and foster a culture of trust and integrity.