On the afternoon of January 23, 2026, the “Zhimei Observation” overseas practice team from Tsinghua University’s Zhishan College visited Ridge View Residential College (RVRC) at the National University of Singapore. Through campus tours, cultural activities, sports interactions, and gift exchanges, the visit facilitated cross-cultural dialogue and mutual learning in educational philosophy.
The visit began with a tour of the RVRC campus by the Zhishan delegation. From residential blocks named after endangered local animals to core academic areas blending natural scenery with learning facilities, the group observed firsthand RVRC’s characteristic projects—such as baseline pollution surveys and waste sorting practices—integrated into the campus environment, highlighting its sustainability-focused educational approach.
RVRC Resident Fellow Lim Cheng Puay introduced the college’s small-group seminar style, project-based assessment methods, and curriculum covering forward-looking topics like sustainable development and workplace wellness, showcasing its distinctive strengths in interdisciplinary education and innovation cultivation.
Lecture Sun Yuchen and Lin Zhanyuan shared Zhishan’s educational model—integrating political, economic, and social studies with data science—and its broad-based, interdisciplinary, and student-centered approach. They also introduced the “Global Deep Dive”course, personalized development plans, and extracurricular activities at the college.
Students from Zhishan College prepared hands-on activities including Chinese calligraphy, fan painting, and lacquered fan making. Students from RVRC offered local Singaporean snacks. Together, participants immersed in the charm of traditional Chinese culture and Singapore’s multicultural heritage through art and food.
At the invitation of the RVRC badminton team, Li Xin and Ren Xianling from Zhishan College joined a friendly match with RVRC students. Through spirited competition and shared techniques on and off the court, sportsmanship served as a direct bridge for cross-cultural connection.
The visit concluded with an exchange of gifts representing both cultures. These souvenirs reflected the value placed on the exchange and expressed hopes for continued collaboration, bringing a fitting close to the program.
This visit marks a significant step in Zhishan College’s efforts to promote international exchange. It not only showcased the college’s innovative achievements in education and teaching reform, but also provided insights into RVRC’s successful experience in interdisciplinary pedagogy and community-based learning. Both sides aim to build on this visit to deepen cooperation and further support the growth and development of young students.
